Employers: sexual harassment training: requirements.
The legislation mandates the Department of Fair Employment and Housing to develop online training courses on sexual harassment prevention, which will be available in multiple languages. By broadening the scope of who must receive training, the bill is designed to ensure a greater number of employees are equipped to recognize and respond to harassment. This could lead to improved workplace culture and a potential reduction in incidents of harassment if properly implemented.
Senate Bill 1343, introduced by Senator Mitchell, amends the California Government Code to expand the training requirements regarding sexual harassment in the workplace. Originally, the law required employers with 50 or more employees to provide training solely for supervisory staff. However, SB 1343 lowers the threshold, requiring employers with five or more employees to provide two hours of training to supervisory employees and one hour to nonsupervisory employees by January 1, 2020, and every two years thereafter. This change aims to create a more comprehensive approach to training that addresses both supervisory and nonsupervisory roles within companies of varying sizes.
The sentiment surrounding SB 1343 is generally positive among advocates for workplace safety and equality. Proponents argue that expanded training is essential in preventing sexual harassment, thereby fostering a safer working environment for all employees. Conversely, some concerns have been raised regarding the administrative burden this may place on smaller businesses and the adequacy of existing resources to comply with these new requirements.
Notable points of contention include the adequacy of resources and training materials provided by the Department of Fair Employment and Housing, as some stakeholders fear that the effectiveness of training could diminish if resources are not sufficient. There is also discussion around the feasibility for smaller companies to meet these new obligations, leading to conversations about potential adjustments needed in implementation to support compliance without hindering business operations.