A number of pro employee bills have made it through the legislature and are now headed for the Governor’s desk. These bills, if approved by the Governor, could mean many improvements for workers rights.
- AB 9 could extend the filing deadline for harassment & discrimination claims under FEHA. It is not uncommon that employees fail to file harassment & discrimination claims with the Department of Fair Housing and Employment right away. This bill would amend the government code to give workers more time for filling in certain situations.
- AB 403 would strengthen retaliation protections for whistleblowers by allowing workers to recover their attorneys’ fees under Labor Code Section 1102.5 and it also would extend the filing deadline for administrative retaliation complaints. This bill could extend a currently very short filing deadline of 6 months to 1 or 2 years, depending on the type of complaint.
- AB 749 would mean a ban on “No Rehire” clauses that restrict employment opportunities for workers settling an employment dispute. Many workers are pressured to agree to no hire clauses when reaching a resignation agreement with an employer. This bill would eliminate that practice and allow workers the opportunity to reapply with an employer.
- AB 1478 would strengthen protections for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking by providing a private right of action and remedies under Labor Code Section 230 and 230.1.