Amended IN Senate April 15, 2021 CALIFORNIA LEGISLATURE 20212022 REGULAR SESSION Senate Bill No. 331Introduced by Senator LeyvaFebruary 08, 2021 An act to amend Section 1001 of the Code of Civil Procedure, and to amend Section 12964.5 of the Government Code, relating to civil actions. LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGESTSB 331, as amended, Leyva. Settlement and nondisparagement agreements.Existing law prohibits a settlement agreement from preventing the disclosure of factual information regarding specified acts related to a claim filed in a civil action or a complaint filed in an administrative action. These acts include sexual assault, as defined; sexual harassment, as defined; an act of workplace harassment or discrimination based on sex, failure to prevent such an act, or retaliation against a person for reporting such an act; and an act of harassment or discrimination based on sex by the owner of a housing accommodation, as defined, or retaliation against a person for reporting such an act.This bill would clarify that this prohibition includes provisions which restrict the disclosure of the information described above. The bill would also expand the prohibition to include acts of workplace harassment or discrimination not based on sex and an act of harassment or discrimination not based on sex by the owner of a housing accommodation.The California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) prohibits various actions as unlawful employment practices unless the employer acts based upon a bona fide occupational qualification or applicable security regulations established by the United States or the State of California. In this regard, FEHA makes it an unlawful employment practice for an employer, in exchange for a raise or bonus, or as a condition of employment of continued employment, from requiring an employee to sign a nondisparagement agreement or other document that purports to deny the employee the right to disclose information about unlawful acts in the workplace, including, but not limited to, sexual harassment or discrimination.This bill would provide that unlawful acts in the workplace for these purposes includes include any harassment or discrimination and would instead prohibit an employer from requiring an employee to sign a nondisparagement agreement or other document to the extent it has the purpose or effect of denying the employee the right to disclose information about those acts. The bill would make it an unlawful employment practice for an employer or former employer to include in any agreement related to an employees separation from employment any provision to the extent it has the purpose or effect of denying the employee or former employee the right to disclose that prohibits the disclosure of information about unlawful acts in the workplace. The bill would provide that any provision in violation of that prohibition would be against public policy and unenforceable.Digest Key Vote: MAJORITY Appropriation: NO Fiscal Committee: NO Local Program: NO Bill TextThe people of the State of California do enact as follows:SECTION 1. Section 1001 of the Code of Civil Procedure is amended to read:1001. (a) Notwithstanding any other law, a provision within a settlement agreement that prevents or restricts the disclosure of factual information related to a claim filed in a civil action or a complaint filed in an administrative action, regarding any of the following, is prohibited:(1) An act of sexual assault that is not governed by subdivision (a) of Section 1002.(2) An act of sexual harassment, as defined in Section 51.9 of the Civil Code.(3) An act of workplace harassment or discrimination, failure to prevent an act of workplace harassment or discrimination, or an act of retaliation against a person for reporting or opposing harassment or discrimination, as described in subdivisions (a), (h), (i), (j), and (k) of Section 12940 of the Government Code.(4) An act of harassment or discrimination, or an act of retaliation against a person for reporting harassment or discrimination by the owner of a housing accommodation, as described in Section 12955 of the Government Code.(b) Notwithstanding any other law, in a civil matter described in paragraphs (1) to (4), inclusive, of subdivision (a), a court shall not enter, by stipulation or otherwise, an order that restricts the disclosure of information in a manner that conflicts with subdivision (a).(c) Notwithstanding subdivision subdivisions (a) and (b), a provision that shields the identity of the claimant and all facts that could lead to the discovery of the claimants identity, including pleadings filed in court, may be included within a settlement agreement at the request of the claimant. This subdivision does not apply if a government agency or public official is a party to the settlement agreement.(d) Except as authorized by subdivision (c), a provision within a settlement agreement that prevents or restricts the disclosure of factual information related to the claim described in subdivision (a) that is entered into on or after January 1, 2019, is void as a matter of law and against public policy.(e) This section does not prohibit the entry or enforcement of a provision in any agreement that precludes the disclosure of the amount paid in settlement of a claim.(f) In determining the factual foundation of a cause of action for civil damages under subdivision (a), a court may consider the pleadings and other papers in the record, or any other findings of the court.SEC. 2. Section 12964.5 of the Government Code is amended to read:12964.5. (a) (1) It is an unlawful employment practice for an employer, in exchange for a raise or bonus, or as a condition of employment or continued employment, to do either of the following:(A) (i) For an employer to require an employee to sign a release of a claim or right under this part.(ii) As used in this subparagraph, release of a claim or right includes requiring an individual to execute a statement that the individual does not possess any claim or injury against the employer or other covered entity, and includes the release of a right to file and pursue a civil action or complaint with, or otherwise notify, a state agency, other public prosecutor, law enforcement agency, or any court or other governmental entity.(B) For an employer to require an employee to sign a nondisparagement agreement or other document to the extent it has the purpose or effect of denying the employee the right to disclose information about unlawful acts in the workplace.(2) Any agreement or document in violation of this subdivision is contrary to public policy and shall be unenforceable.(b) (1) It is an unlawful employment practice for an employer or former employer to include in any agreement related to an employees separation from employment any provision to the extent it has the purpose or effect of denying the employee or former employee the right to disclose that prohibits the disclosure of information about unlawful acts in the workplace.(2) Any provision in violation of paragraph (1) is against public policy and shall be unenforceable.(3) This subdivision does not prohibit the inclusion of a general release or waiver of all claims in an agreement related to an employees separation from employment, provided that the release or waiver is otherwise lawful and valid.(4) An employer offering an employee or former employee an agreement related to that employees separation from employment as provided in this subdivision shall notify the employee that the employee has a right to consult an attorney regarding the agreement and shall provide the employee with a reasonable time period of not less than five business days in which to do so. An employee may sign such an agreement prior to the end of the reasonable time period as long as the employees decision to accept such shortening of time is knowing and voluntary and is not induced by the employer through fraud, misrepresentation, or a threat to withdraw or alter the offer prior to the expiration of the reasonable time period, or by providing different terms to employees who sign such an agreement prior to the expiration of such time period.(c) As used in this section, information about unlawful acts in the workplace includes, but is not limited to, information pertaining to harassment or discrimination or any other unlawful or potentially unlawful conduct. conduct that the employee has reasonable cause to believe is unlawful.(d) (1) This section does not apply to a negotiated settlement agreement to resolve an underlying claim under this part that has been filed by an employee in court, before an administrative agency, alternative dispute resolution forum, or through an employers internal complaint process.(2) As used in this section, negotiated means that the agreement is voluntary, deliberate, and informed, provides consideration of value to the employee, and that the employee is given notice and an opportunity to retain an attorney or is represented by an attorney.(e) This section does not prohibit the entry or enforcement of a provision in any agreement that precludes the disclosure of the amount paid in settlement of a claim.(f) This section does not prohibit an employer from protecting the employers trade secrets, proprietary information, or confidential information that does not involve unlawful acts in the workplace.
Amended IN Senate April 15, 2021 CALIFORNIA LEGISLATURE 20212022 REGULAR SESSION Senate Bill No. 331Introduced by Senator LeyvaFebruary 08, 2021 An act to amend Section 1001 of the Code of Civil Procedure, and to amend Section 12964.5 of the Government Code, relating to civil actions. LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGESTSB 331, as amended, Leyva. Settlement and nondisparagement agreements.Existing law prohibits a settlement agreement from preventing the disclosure of factual information regarding specified acts related to a claim filed in a civil action or a complaint filed in an administrative action. These acts include sexual assault, as defined; sexual harassment, as defined; an act of workplace harassment or discrimination based on sex, failure to prevent such an act, or retaliation against a person for reporting such an act; and an act of harassment or discrimination based on sex by the owner of a housing accommodation, as defined, or retaliation against a person for reporting such an act.This bill would clarify that this prohibition includes provisions which restrict the disclosure of the information described above. The bill would also expand the prohibition to include acts of workplace harassment or discrimination not based on sex and an act of harassment or discrimination not based on sex by the owner of a housing accommodation.The California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) prohibits various actions as unlawful employment practices unless the employer acts based upon a bona fide occupational qualification or applicable security regulations established by the United States or the State of California. In this regard, FEHA makes it an unlawful employment practice for an employer, in exchange for a raise or bonus, or as a condition of employment of continued employment, from requiring an employee to sign a nondisparagement agreement or other document that purports to deny the employee the right to disclose information about unlawful acts in the workplace, including, but not limited to, sexual harassment or discrimination.This bill would provide that unlawful acts in the workplace for these purposes includes include any harassment or discrimination and would instead prohibit an employer from requiring an employee to sign a nondisparagement agreement or other document to the extent it has the purpose or effect of denying the employee the right to disclose information about those acts. The bill would make it an unlawful employment practice for an employer or former employer to include in any agreement related to an employees separation from employment any provision to the extent it has the purpose or effect of denying the employee or former employee the right to disclose that prohibits the disclosure of information about unlawful acts in the workplace. The bill would provide that any provision in violation of that prohibition would be against public policy and unenforceable.Digest Key Vote: MAJORITY Appropriation: NO Fiscal Committee: NO Local Program: NO
Amended IN Senate April 15, 2021
Amended IN Senate April 15, 2021
CALIFORNIA LEGISLATURE 20212022 REGULAR SESSION
Senate Bill
No. 331
Introduced by Senator LeyvaFebruary 08, 2021
Introduced by Senator Leyva
February 08, 2021
An act to amend Section 1001 of the Code of Civil Procedure, and to amend Section 12964.5 of the Government Code, relating to civil actions.
LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGEST
## LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGEST
SB 331, as amended, Leyva. Settlement and nondisparagement agreements.
Existing law prohibits a settlement agreement from preventing the disclosure of factual information regarding specified acts related to a claim filed in a civil action or a complaint filed in an administrative action. These acts include sexual assault, as defined; sexual harassment, as defined; an act of workplace harassment or discrimination based on sex, failure to prevent such an act, or retaliation against a person for reporting such an act; and an act of harassment or discrimination based on sex by the owner of a housing accommodation, as defined, or retaliation against a person for reporting such an act.This bill would clarify that this prohibition includes provisions which restrict the disclosure of the information described above. The bill would also expand the prohibition to include acts of workplace harassment or discrimination not based on sex and an act of harassment or discrimination not based on sex by the owner of a housing accommodation.The California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) prohibits various actions as unlawful employment practices unless the employer acts based upon a bona fide occupational qualification or applicable security regulations established by the United States or the State of California. In this regard, FEHA makes it an unlawful employment practice for an employer, in exchange for a raise or bonus, or as a condition of employment of continued employment, from requiring an employee to sign a nondisparagement agreement or other document that purports to deny the employee the right to disclose information about unlawful acts in the workplace, including, but not limited to, sexual harassment or discrimination.This bill would provide that unlawful acts in the workplace for these purposes includes include any harassment or discrimination and would instead prohibit an employer from requiring an employee to sign a nondisparagement agreement or other document to the extent it has the purpose or effect of denying the employee the right to disclose information about those acts. The bill would make it an unlawful employment practice for an employer or former employer to include in any agreement related to an employees separation from employment any provision to the extent it has the purpose or effect of denying the employee or former employee the right to disclose that prohibits the disclosure of information about unlawful acts in the workplace. The bill would provide that any provision in violation of that prohibition would be against public policy and unenforceable.
Existing law prohibits a settlement agreement from preventing the disclosure of factual information regarding specified acts related to a claim filed in a civil action or a complaint filed in an administrative action. These acts include sexual assault, as defined; sexual harassment, as defined; an act of workplace harassment or discrimination based on sex, failure to prevent such an act, or retaliation against a person for reporting such an act; and an act of harassment or discrimination based on sex by the owner of a housing accommodation, as defined, or retaliation against a person for reporting such an act.
This bill would clarify that this prohibition includes provisions which restrict the disclosure of the information described above. The bill would also expand the prohibition to include acts of workplace harassment or discrimination not based on sex and an act of harassment or discrimination not based on sex by the owner of a housing accommodation.
The California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) prohibits various actions as unlawful employment practices unless the employer acts based upon a bona fide occupational qualification or applicable security regulations established by the United States or the State of California. In this regard, FEHA makes it an unlawful employment practice for an employer, in exchange for a raise or bonus, or as a condition of employment of continued employment, from requiring an employee to sign a nondisparagement agreement or other document that purports to deny the employee the right to disclose information about unlawful acts in the workplace, including, but not limited to, sexual harassment or discrimination.
This bill would provide that unlawful acts in the workplace for these purposes includes include any harassment or discrimination and would instead prohibit an employer from requiring an employee to sign a nondisparagement agreement or other document to the extent it has the purpose or effect of denying the employee the right to disclose information about those acts. The bill would make it an unlawful employment practice for an employer or former employer to include in any agreement related to an employees separation from employment any provision to the extent it has the purpose or effect of denying the employee or former employee the right to disclose that prohibits the disclosure of information about unlawful acts in the workplace. The bill would provide that any provision in violation of that prohibition would be against public policy and unenforceable.
## Digest Key
## Bill Text
The people of the State of California do enact as follows:SECTION 1. Section 1001 of the Code of Civil Procedure is amended to read:1001. (a) Notwithstanding any other law, a provision within a settlement agreement that prevents or restricts the disclosure of factual information related to a claim filed in a civil action or a complaint filed in an administrative action, regarding any of the following, is prohibited:(1) An act of sexual assault that is not governed by subdivision (a) of Section 1002.(2) An act of sexual harassment, as defined in Section 51.9 of the Civil Code.(3) An act of workplace harassment or discrimination, failure to prevent an act of workplace harassment or discrimination, or an act of retaliation against a person for reporting or opposing harassment or discrimination, as described in subdivisions (a), (h), (i), (j), and (k) of Section 12940 of the Government Code.(4) An act of harassment or discrimination, or an act of retaliation against a person for reporting harassment or discrimination by the owner of a housing accommodation, as described in Section 12955 of the Government Code.(b) Notwithstanding any other law, in a civil matter described in paragraphs (1) to (4), inclusive, of subdivision (a), a court shall not enter, by stipulation or otherwise, an order that restricts the disclosure of information in a manner that conflicts with subdivision (a).(c) Notwithstanding subdivision subdivisions (a) and (b), a provision that shields the identity of the claimant and all facts that could lead to the discovery of the claimants identity, including pleadings filed in court, may be included within a settlement agreement at the request of the claimant. This subdivision does not apply if a government agency or public official is a party to the settlement agreement.(d) Except as authorized by subdivision (c), a provision within a settlement agreement that prevents or restricts the disclosure of factual information related to the claim described in subdivision (a) that is entered into on or after January 1, 2019, is void as a matter of law and against public policy.(e) This section does not prohibit the entry or enforcement of a provision in any agreement that precludes the disclosure of the amount paid in settlement of a claim.(f) In determining the factual foundation of a cause of action for civil damages under subdivision (a), a court may consider the pleadings and other papers in the record, or any other findings of the court.SEC. 2. Section 12964.5 of the Government Code is amended to read:12964.5. (a) (1) It is an unlawful employment practice for an employer, in exchange for a raise or bonus, or as a condition of employment or continued employment, to do either of the following:(A) (i) For an employer to require an employee to sign a release of a claim or right under this part.(ii) As used in this subparagraph, release of a claim or right includes requiring an individual to execute a statement that the individual does not possess any claim or injury against the employer or other covered entity, and includes the release of a right to file and pursue a civil action or complaint with, or otherwise notify, a state agency, other public prosecutor, law enforcement agency, or any court or other governmental entity.(B) For an employer to require an employee to sign a nondisparagement agreement or other document to the extent it has the purpose or effect of denying the employee the right to disclose information about unlawful acts in the workplace.(2) Any agreement or document in violation of this subdivision is contrary to public policy and shall be unenforceable.(b) (1) It is an unlawful employment practice for an employer or former employer to include in any agreement related to an employees separation from employment any provision to the extent it has the purpose or effect of denying the employee or former employee the right to disclose that prohibits the disclosure of information about unlawful acts in the workplace.(2) Any provision in violation of paragraph (1) is against public policy and shall be unenforceable.(3) This subdivision does not prohibit the inclusion of a general release or waiver of all claims in an agreement related to an employees separation from employment, provided that the release or waiver is otherwise lawful and valid.(4) An employer offering an employee or former employee an agreement related to that employees separation from employment as provided in this subdivision shall notify the employee that the employee has a right to consult an attorney regarding the agreement and shall provide the employee with a reasonable time period of not less than five business days in which to do so. An employee may sign such an agreement prior to the end of the reasonable time period as long as the employees decision to accept such shortening of time is knowing and voluntary and is not induced by the employer through fraud, misrepresentation, or a threat to withdraw or alter the offer prior to the expiration of the reasonable time period, or by providing different terms to employees who sign such an agreement prior to the expiration of such time period.(c) As used in this section, information about unlawful acts in the workplace includes, but is not limited to, information pertaining to harassment or discrimination or any other unlawful or potentially unlawful conduct. conduct that the employee has reasonable cause to believe is unlawful.(d) (1) This section does not apply to a negotiated settlement agreement to resolve an underlying claim under this part that has been filed by an employee in court, before an administrative agency, alternative dispute resolution forum, or through an employers internal complaint process.(2) As used in this section, negotiated means that the agreement is voluntary, deliberate, and informed, provides consideration of value to the employee, and that the employee is given notice and an opportunity to retain an attorney or is represented by an attorney.(e) This section does not prohibit the entry or enforcement of a provision in any agreement that precludes the disclosure of the amount paid in settlement of a claim.(f) This section does not prohibit an employer from protecting the employers trade secrets, proprietary information, or confidential information that does not involve unlawful acts in the workplace.
The people of the State of California do enact as follows:
## The people of the State of California do enact as follows:
SECTION 1. Section 1001 of the Code of Civil Procedure is amended to read:1001. (a) Notwithstanding any other law, a provision within a settlement agreement that prevents or restricts the disclosure of factual information related to a claim filed in a civil action or a complaint filed in an administrative action, regarding any of the following, is prohibited:(1) An act of sexual assault that is not governed by subdivision (a) of Section 1002.(2) An act of sexual harassment, as defined in Section 51.9 of the Civil Code.(3) An act of workplace harassment or discrimination, failure to prevent an act of workplace harassment or discrimination, or an act of retaliation against a person for reporting or opposing harassment or discrimination, as described in subdivisions (a), (h), (i), (j), and (k) of Section 12940 of the Government Code.(4) An act of harassment or discrimination, or an act of retaliation against a person for reporting harassment or discrimination by the owner of a housing accommodation, as described in Section 12955 of the Government Code.(b) Notwithstanding any other law, in a civil matter described in paragraphs (1) to (4), inclusive, of subdivision (a), a court shall not enter, by stipulation or otherwise, an order that restricts the disclosure of information in a manner that conflicts with subdivision (a).(c) Notwithstanding subdivision subdivisions (a) and (b), a provision that shields the identity of the claimant and all facts that could lead to the discovery of the claimants identity, including pleadings filed in court, may be included within a settlement agreement at the request of the claimant. This subdivision does not apply if a government agency or public official is a party to the settlement agreement.(d) Except as authorized by subdivision (c), a provision within a settlement agreement that prevents or restricts the disclosure of factual information related to the claim described in subdivision (a) that is entered into on or after January 1, 2019, is void as a matter of law and against public policy.(e) This section does not prohibit the entry or enforcement of a provision in any agreement that precludes the disclosure of the amount paid in settlement of a claim.(f) In determining the factual foundation of a cause of action for civil damages under subdivision (a), a court may consider the pleadings and other papers in the record, or any other findings of the court.
SECTION 1. Section 1001 of the Code of Civil Procedure is amended to read:
### SECTION 1.
1001. (a) Notwithstanding any other law, a provision within a settlement agreement that prevents or restricts the disclosure of factual information related to a claim filed in a civil action or a complaint filed in an administrative action, regarding any of the following, is prohibited:(1) An act of sexual assault that is not governed by subdivision (a) of Section 1002.(2) An act of sexual harassment, as defined in Section 51.9 of the Civil Code.(3) An act of workplace harassment or discrimination, failure to prevent an act of workplace harassment or discrimination, or an act of retaliation against a person for reporting or opposing harassment or discrimination, as described in subdivisions (a), (h), (i), (j), and (k) of Section 12940 of the Government Code.(4) An act of harassment or discrimination, or an act of retaliation against a person for reporting harassment or discrimination by the owner of a housing accommodation, as described in Section 12955 of the Government Code.(b) Notwithstanding any other law, in a civil matter described in paragraphs (1) to (4), inclusive, of subdivision (a), a court shall not enter, by stipulation or otherwise, an order that restricts the disclosure of information in a manner that conflicts with subdivision (a).(c) Notwithstanding subdivision subdivisions (a) and (b), a provision that shields the identity of the claimant and all facts that could lead to the discovery of the claimants identity, including pleadings filed in court, may be included within a settlement agreement at the request of the claimant. This subdivision does not apply if a government agency or public official is a party to the settlement agreement.(d) Except as authorized by subdivision (c), a provision within a settlement agreement that prevents or restricts the disclosure of factual information related to the claim described in subdivision (a) that is entered into on or after January 1, 2019, is void as a matter of law and against public policy.(e) This section does not prohibit the entry or enforcement of a provision in any agreement that precludes the disclosure of the amount paid in settlement of a claim.(f) In determining the factual foundation of a cause of action for civil damages under subdivision (a), a court may consider the pleadings and other papers in the record, or any other findings of the court.
1001. (a) Notwithstanding any other law, a provision within a settlement agreement that prevents or restricts the disclosure of factual information related to a claim filed in a civil action or a complaint filed in an administrative action, regarding any of the following, is prohibited:(1) An act of sexual assault that is not governed by subdivision (a) of Section 1002.(2) An act of sexual harassment, as defined in Section 51.9 of the Civil Code.(3) An act of workplace harassment or discrimination, failure to prevent an act of workplace harassment or discrimination, or an act of retaliation against a person for reporting or opposing harassment or discrimination, as described in subdivisions (a), (h), (i), (j), and (k) of Section 12940 of the Government Code.(4) An act of harassment or discrimination, or an act of retaliation against a person for reporting harassment or discrimination by the owner of a housing accommodation, as described in Section 12955 of the Government Code.(b) Notwithstanding any other law, in a civil matter described in paragraphs (1) to (4), inclusive, of subdivision (a), a court shall not enter, by stipulation or otherwise, an order that restricts the disclosure of information in a manner that conflicts with subdivision (a).(c) Notwithstanding subdivision subdivisions (a) and (b), a provision that shields the identity of the claimant and all facts that could lead to the discovery of the claimants identity, including pleadings filed in court, may be included within a settlement agreement at the request of the claimant. This subdivision does not apply if a government agency or public official is a party to the settlement agreement.(d) Except as authorized by subdivision (c), a provision within a settlement agreement that prevents or restricts the disclosure of factual information related to the claim described in subdivision (a) that is entered into on or after January 1, 2019, is void as a matter of law and against public policy.(e) This section does not prohibit the entry or enforcement of a provision in any agreement that precludes the disclosure of the amount paid in settlement of a claim.(f) In determining the factual foundation of a cause of action for civil damages under subdivision (a), a court may consider the pleadings and other papers in the record, or any other findings of the court.
1001. (a) Notwithstanding any other law, a provision within a settlement agreement that prevents or restricts the disclosure of factual information related to a claim filed in a civil action or a complaint filed in an administrative action, regarding any of the following, is prohibited:(1) An act of sexual assault that is not governed by subdivision (a) of Section 1002.(2) An act of sexual harassment, as defined in Section 51.9 of the Civil Code.(3) An act of workplace harassment or discrimination, failure to prevent an act of workplace harassment or discrimination, or an act of retaliation against a person for reporting or opposing harassment or discrimination, as described in subdivisions (a), (h), (i), (j), and (k) of Section 12940 of the Government Code.(4) An act of harassment or discrimination, or an act of retaliation against a person for reporting harassment or discrimination by the owner of a housing accommodation, as described in Section 12955 of the Government Code.(b) Notwithstanding any other law, in a civil matter described in paragraphs (1) to (4), inclusive, of subdivision (a), a court shall not enter, by stipulation or otherwise, an order that restricts the disclosure of information in a manner that conflicts with subdivision (a).(c) Notwithstanding subdivision subdivisions (a) and (b), a provision that shields the identity of the claimant and all facts that could lead to the discovery of the claimants identity, including pleadings filed in court, may be included within a settlement agreement at the request of the claimant. This subdivision does not apply if a government agency or public official is a party to the settlement agreement.(d) Except as authorized by subdivision (c), a provision within a settlement agreement that prevents or restricts the disclosure of factual information related to the claim described in subdivision (a) that is entered into on or after January 1, 2019, is void as a matter of law and against public policy.(e) This section does not prohibit the entry or enforcement of a provision in any agreement that precludes the disclosure of the amount paid in settlement of a claim.(f) In determining the factual foundation of a cause of action for civil damages under subdivision (a), a court may consider the pleadings and other papers in the record, or any other findings of the court.
1001. (a) Notwithstanding any other law, a provision within a settlement agreement that prevents or restricts the disclosure of factual information related to a claim filed in a civil action or a complaint filed in an administrative action, regarding any of the following, is prohibited:
(1) An act of sexual assault that is not governed by subdivision (a) of Section 1002.
(2) An act of sexual harassment, as defined in Section 51.9 of the Civil Code.
(3) An act of workplace harassment or discrimination, failure to prevent an act of workplace harassment or discrimination, or an act of retaliation against a person for reporting or opposing harassment or discrimination, as described in subdivisions (a), (h), (i), (j), and (k) of Section 12940 of the Government Code.
(4) An act of harassment or discrimination, or an act of retaliation against a person for reporting harassment or discrimination by the owner of a housing accommodation, as described in Section 12955 of the Government Code.
(b) Notwithstanding any other law, in a civil matter described in paragraphs (1) to (4), inclusive, of subdivision (a), a court shall not enter, by stipulation or otherwise, an order that restricts the disclosure of information in a manner that conflicts with subdivision (a).
(c) Notwithstanding subdivision subdivisions (a) and (b), a provision that shields the identity of the claimant and all facts that could lead to the discovery of the claimants identity, including pleadings filed in court, may be included within a settlement agreement at the request of the claimant. This subdivision does not apply if a government agency or public official is a party to the settlement agreement.
(d) Except as authorized by subdivision (c), a provision within a settlement agreement that prevents or restricts the disclosure of factual information related to the claim described in subdivision (a) that is entered into on or after January 1, 2019, is void as a matter of law and against public policy.
(e) This section does not prohibit the entry or enforcement of a provision in any agreement that precludes the disclosure of the amount paid in settlement of a claim.
(f) In determining the factual foundation of a cause of action for civil damages under subdivision (a), a court may consider the pleadings and other papers in the record, or any other findings of the court.
SEC. 2. Section 12964.5 of the Government Code is amended to read:12964.5. (a) (1) It is an unlawful employment practice for an employer, in exchange for a raise or bonus, or as a condition of employment or continued employment, to do either of the following:(A) (i) For an employer to require an employee to sign a release of a claim or right under this part.(ii) As used in this subparagraph, release of a claim or right includes requiring an individual to execute a statement that the individual does not possess any claim or injury against the employer or other covered entity, and includes the release of a right to file and pursue a civil action or complaint with, or otherwise notify, a state agency, other public prosecutor, law enforcement agency, or any court or other governmental entity.(B) For an employer to require an employee to sign a nondisparagement agreement or other document to the extent it has the purpose or effect of denying the employee the right to disclose information about unlawful acts in the workplace.(2) Any agreement or document in violation of this subdivision is contrary to public policy and shall be unenforceable.(b) (1) It is an unlawful employment practice for an employer or former employer to include in any agreement related to an employees separation from employment any provision to the extent it has the purpose or effect of denying the employee or former employee the right to disclose that prohibits the disclosure of information about unlawful acts in the workplace.(2) Any provision in violation of paragraph (1) is against public policy and shall be unenforceable.(3) This subdivision does not prohibit the inclusion of a general release or waiver of all claims in an agreement related to an employees separation from employment, provided that the release or waiver is otherwise lawful and valid.(4) An employer offering an employee or former employee an agreement related to that employees separation from employment as provided in this subdivision shall notify the employee that the employee has a right to consult an attorney regarding the agreement and shall provide the employee with a reasonable time period of not less than five business days in which to do so. An employee may sign such an agreement prior to the end of the reasonable time period as long as the employees decision to accept such shortening of time is knowing and voluntary and is not induced by the employer through fraud, misrepresentation, or a threat to withdraw or alter the offer prior to the expiration of the reasonable time period, or by providing different terms to employees who sign such an agreement prior to the expiration of such time period.(c) As used in this section, information about unlawful acts in the workplace includes, but is not limited to, information pertaining to harassment or discrimination or any other unlawful or potentially unlawful conduct. conduct that the employee has reasonable cause to believe is unlawful.(d) (1) This section does not apply to a negotiated settlement agreement to resolve an underlying claim under this part that has been filed by an employee in court, before an administrative agency, alternative dispute resolution forum, or through an employers internal complaint process.(2) As used in this section, negotiated means that the agreement is voluntary, deliberate, and informed, provides consideration of value to the employee, and that the employee is given notice and an opportunity to retain an attorney or is represented by an attorney.(e) This section does not prohibit the entry or enforcement of a provision in any agreement that precludes the disclosure of the amount paid in settlement of a claim.(f) This section does not prohibit an employer from protecting the employers trade secrets, proprietary information, or confidential information that does not involve unlawful acts in the workplace.
SEC. 2. Section 12964.5 of the Government Code is amended to read:
### SEC. 2.
12964.5. (a) (1) It is an unlawful employment practice for an employer, in exchange for a raise or bonus, or as a condition of employment or continued employment, to do either of the following:(A) (i) For an employer to require an employee to sign a release of a claim or right under this part.(ii) As used in this subparagraph, release of a claim or right includes requiring an individual to execute a statement that the individual does not possess any claim or injury against the employer or other covered entity, and includes the release of a right to file and pursue a civil action or complaint with, or otherwise notify, a state agency, other public prosecutor, law enforcement agency, or any court or other governmental entity.(B) For an employer to require an employee to sign a nondisparagement agreement or other document to the extent it has the purpose or effect of denying the employee the right to disclose information about unlawful acts in the workplace.(2) Any agreement or document in violation of this subdivision is contrary to public policy and shall be unenforceable.(b) (1) It is an unlawful employment practice for an employer or former employer to include in any agreement related to an employees separation from employment any provision to the extent it has the purpose or effect of denying the employee or former employee the right to disclose that prohibits the disclosure of information about unlawful acts in the workplace.(2) Any provision in violation of paragraph (1) is against public policy and shall be unenforceable.(3) This subdivision does not prohibit the inclusion of a general release or waiver of all claims in an agreement related to an employees separation from employment, provided that the release or waiver is otherwise lawful and valid.(4) An employer offering an employee or former employee an agreement related to that employees separation from employment as provided in this subdivision shall notify the employee that the employee has a right to consult an attorney regarding the agreement and shall provide the employee with a reasonable time period of not less than five business days in which to do so. An employee may sign such an agreement prior to the end of the reasonable time period as long as the employees decision to accept such shortening of time is knowing and voluntary and is not induced by the employer through fraud, misrepresentation, or a threat to withdraw or alter the offer prior to the expiration of the reasonable time period, or by providing different terms to employees who sign such an agreement prior to the expiration of such time period.(c) As used in this section, information about unlawful acts in the workplace includes, but is not limited to, information pertaining to harassment or discrimination or any other unlawful or potentially unlawful conduct. conduct that the employee has reasonable cause to believe is unlawful.(d) (1) This section does not apply to a negotiated settlement agreement to resolve an underlying claim under this part that has been filed by an employee in court, before an administrative agency, alternative dispute resolution forum, or through an employers internal complaint process.(2) As used in this section, negotiated means that the agreement is voluntary, deliberate, and informed, provides consideration of value to the employee, and that the employee is given notice and an opportunity to retain an attorney or is represented by an attorney.(e) This section does not prohibit the entry or enforcement of a provision in any agreement that precludes the disclosure of the amount paid in settlement of a claim.(f) This section does not prohibit an employer from protecting the employers trade secrets, proprietary information, or confidential information that does not involve unlawful acts in the workplace.
12964.5. (a) (1) It is an unlawful employment practice for an employer, in exchange for a raise or bonus, or as a condition of employment or continued employment, to do either of the following:(A) (i) For an employer to require an employee to sign a release of a claim or right under this part.(ii) As used in this subparagraph, release of a claim or right includes requiring an individual to execute a statement that the individual does not possess any claim or injury against the employer or other covered entity, and includes the release of a right to file and pursue a civil action or complaint with, or otherwise notify, a state agency, other public prosecutor, law enforcement agency, or any court or other governmental entity.(B) For an employer to require an employee to sign a nondisparagement agreement or other document to the extent it has the purpose or effect of denying the employee the right to disclose information about unlawful acts in the workplace.(2) Any agreement or document in violation of this subdivision is contrary to public policy and shall be unenforceable.(b) (1) It is an unlawful employment practice for an employer or former employer to include in any agreement related to an employees separation from employment any provision to the extent it has the purpose or effect of denying the employee or former employee the right to disclose that prohibits the disclosure of information about unlawful acts in the workplace.(2) Any provision in violation of paragraph (1) is against public policy and shall be unenforceable.(3) This subdivision does not prohibit the inclusion of a general release or waiver of all claims in an agreement related to an employees separation from employment, provided that the release or waiver is otherwise lawful and valid.(4) An employer offering an employee or former employee an agreement related to that employees separation from employment as provided in this subdivision shall notify the employee that the employee has a right to consult an attorney regarding the agreement and shall provide the employee with a reasonable time period of not less than five business days in which to do so. An employee may sign such an agreement prior to the end of the reasonable time period as long as the employees decision to accept such shortening of time is knowing and voluntary and is not induced by the employer through fraud, misrepresentation, or a threat to withdraw or alter the offer prior to the expiration of the reasonable time period, or by providing different terms to employees who sign such an agreement prior to the expiration of such time period.(c) As used in this section, information about unlawful acts in the workplace includes, but is not limited to, information pertaining to harassment or discrimination or any other unlawful or potentially unlawful conduct. conduct that the employee has reasonable cause to believe is unlawful.(d) (1) This section does not apply to a negotiated settlement agreement to resolve an underlying claim under this part that has been filed by an employee in court, before an administrative agency, alternative dispute resolution forum, or through an employers internal complaint process.(2) As used in this section, negotiated means that the agreement is voluntary, deliberate, and informed, provides consideration of value to the employee, and that the employee is given notice and an opportunity to retain an attorney or is represented by an attorney.(e) This section does not prohibit the entry or enforcement of a provision in any agreement that precludes the disclosure of the amount paid in settlement of a claim.(f) This section does not prohibit an employer from protecting the employers trade secrets, proprietary information, or confidential information that does not involve unlawful acts in the workplace.
12964.5. (a) (1) It is an unlawful employment practice for an employer, in exchange for a raise or bonus, or as a condition of employment or continued employment, to do either of the following:(A) (i) For an employer to require an employee to sign a release of a claim or right under this part.(ii) As used in this subparagraph, release of a claim or right includes requiring an individual to execute a statement that the individual does not possess any claim or injury against the employer or other covered entity, and includes the release of a right to file and pursue a civil action or complaint with, or otherwise notify, a state agency, other public prosecutor, law enforcement agency, or any court or other governmental entity.(B) For an employer to require an employee to sign a nondisparagement agreement or other document to the extent it has the purpose or effect of denying the employee the right to disclose information about unlawful acts in the workplace.(2) Any agreement or document in violation of this subdivision is contrary to public policy and shall be unenforceable.(b) (1) It is an unlawful employment practice for an employer or former employer to include in any agreement related to an employees separation from employment any provision to the extent it has the purpose or effect of denying the employee or former employee the right to disclose that prohibits the disclosure of information about unlawful acts in the workplace.(2) Any provision in violation of paragraph (1) is against public policy and shall be unenforceable.(3) This subdivision does not prohibit the inclusion of a general release or waiver of all claims in an agreement related to an employees separation from employment, provided that the release or waiver is otherwise lawful and valid.(4) An employer offering an employee or former employee an agreement related to that employees separation from employment as provided in this subdivision shall notify the employee that the employee has a right to consult an attorney regarding the agreement and shall provide the employee with a reasonable time period of not less than five business days in which to do so. An employee may sign such an agreement prior to the end of the reasonable time period as long as the employees decision to accept such shortening of time is knowing and voluntary and is not induced by the employer through fraud, misrepresentation, or a threat to withdraw or alter the offer prior to the expiration of the reasonable time period, or by providing different terms to employees who sign such an agreement prior to the expiration of such time period.(c) As used in this section, information about unlawful acts in the workplace includes, but is not limited to, information pertaining to harassment or discrimination or any other unlawful or potentially unlawful conduct. conduct that the employee has reasonable cause to believe is unlawful.(d) (1) This section does not apply to a negotiated settlement agreement to resolve an underlying claim under this part that has been filed by an employee in court, before an administrative agency, alternative dispute resolution forum, or through an employers internal complaint process.(2) As used in this section, negotiated means that the agreement is voluntary, deliberate, and informed, provides consideration of value to the employee, and that the employee is given notice and an opportunity to retain an attorney or is represented by an attorney.(e) This section does not prohibit the entry or enforcement of a provision in any agreement that precludes the disclosure of the amount paid in settlement of a claim.(f) This section does not prohibit an employer from protecting the employers trade secrets, proprietary information, or confidential information that does not involve unlawful acts in the workplace.
12964.5. (a) (1) It is an unlawful employment practice for an employer, in exchange for a raise or bonus, or as a condition of employment or continued employment, to do either of the following:
(A) (i) For an employer to require an employee to sign a release of a claim or right under this part.
(ii) As used in this subparagraph, release of a claim or right includes requiring an individual to execute a statement that the individual does not possess any claim or injury against the employer or other covered entity, and includes the release of a right to file and pursue a civil action or complaint with, or otherwise notify, a state agency, other public prosecutor, law enforcement agency, or any court or other governmental entity.
(B) For an employer to require an employee to sign a nondisparagement agreement or other document to the extent it has the purpose or effect of denying the employee the right to disclose information about unlawful acts in the workplace.
(2) Any agreement or document in violation of this subdivision is contrary to public policy and shall be unenforceable.
(b) (1) It is an unlawful employment practice for an employer or former employer to include in any agreement related to an employees separation from employment any provision to the extent it has the purpose or effect of denying the employee or former employee the right to disclose that prohibits the disclosure of information about unlawful acts in the workplace.
(2) Any provision in violation of paragraph (1) is against public policy and shall be unenforceable.
(3) This subdivision does not prohibit the inclusion of a general release or waiver of all claims in an agreement related to an employees separation from employment, provided that the release or waiver is otherwise lawful and valid.
(4) An employer offering an employee or former employee an agreement related to that employees separation from employment as provided in this subdivision shall notify the employee that the employee has a right to consult an attorney regarding the agreement and shall provide the employee with a reasonable time period of not less than five business days in which to do so. An employee may sign such an agreement prior to the end of the reasonable time period as long as the employees decision to accept such shortening of time is knowing and voluntary and is not induced by the employer through fraud, misrepresentation, or a threat to withdraw or alter the offer prior to the expiration of the reasonable time period, or by providing different terms to employees who sign such an agreement prior to the expiration of such time period.
(c) As used in this section, information about unlawful acts in the workplace includes, but is not limited to, information pertaining to harassment or discrimination or any other unlawful or potentially unlawful conduct. conduct that the employee has reasonable cause to believe is unlawful.
(d) (1) This section does not apply to a negotiated settlement agreement to resolve an underlying claim under this part that has been filed by an employee in court, before an administrative agency, alternative dispute resolution forum, or through an employers internal complaint process.
(2) As used in this section, negotiated means that the agreement is voluntary, deliberate, and informed, provides consideration of value to the employee, and that the employee is given notice and an opportunity to retain an attorney or is represented by an attorney.
(e) This section does not prohibit the entry or enforcement of a provision in any agreement that precludes the disclosure of the amount paid in settlement of a claim.
(f) This section does not prohibit an employer from protecting the employers trade secrets, proprietary information, or confidential information that does not involve unlawful acts in the workplace.