In a recent presentation at the SHRM Northern California 2024 Annual Conference, Weintraub shareholder Ryan Abernethy outlined significant updates in California employment law for employers to be aware of. The session addressed employment-related legal updates that recently took effect, including workplace violence prevention requirements, new indoor heat exposure regulations, and expansions in harassment and retaliation laws, as well as pending legislation that could have a crucial impact on employers. Recent changes to the Private Attorney General Act (PAGA) are not addressed herein but can be found here in one of our episodes of California Employment News.

Recent Legal Updates

Workplace Violence Prevention Plans

California has enacted Senate Bill 553 to address violence in the workplace. This law mandates that most employers implement a Workplace Violence Prevention Plan (WVPP) by July 1, 2024. The WVPP must be comprehensive, documenting procedures to identify hazards, report incidents, and respond effectively to emergencies. The law categorizes workplace violence into four types:

1. Type 1: Violence from a third-party with no legitimate reason to be at the workplace.
2. Type 2: Violence from a third-party with a legitimate reason (e.g., customers).
3. Type 3: Violence between employees.
4. Type 4: Violence from someone with a personal relationship with an employee.

Employers are required to maintain records for up to five years and to train employees on the WVPP upon...

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