Employment Law

California SB 396: Employer Training Requirements

Learn about California SB 396 employer training requirements and ensure compliance with state laws

Introduction to California SB 396

California SB 396 is a law that requires employers to provide training on workplace harassment and discrimination. The law aims to promote a safe and respectful work environment for all employees. Employers must provide training to all employees, including supervisors and managers, within six months of hire or promotion.

The training must include information on federal and state laws, as well as the employer's own policies and procedures. Employers must also provide training on bystander intervention and how to report incidents of harassment or discrimination.

Employer Training Requirements

Employers with 50 or more employees are required to provide training to all employees. The training must be at least two hours long for supervisors and managers, and at least one hour long for non-supervisory employees. Employers must also provide training to new employees within six months of hire.

The training must be interactive and include questions and answers, as well as hypothetical scenarios. Employers must also provide training on the prevention of harassment and discrimination, and how to report incidents.

Content of the Training

The training must include information on the definition of harassment and discrimination, as well as the types of behavior that are prohibited. The training must also include information on the employer's policies and procedures for reporting and investigating incidents of harassment or discrimination.

The training must also include information on the consequences of harassment and discrimination, as well as the rights of employees who experience harassment or discrimination. Employers must also provide training on how to prevent retaliation against employees who report incidents of harassment or discrimination.

Record-Keeping Requirements

Employers must keep records of the training provided to employees, including the date and time of the training, as well as the names of the employees who attended. Employers must also keep records of any complaints or incidents of harassment or discrimination.

Employers must also provide employees with a copy of the training materials and a certificate of completion. Employers must keep these records for at least three years, and must provide them to the state upon request.

Consequences of Non-Compliance

Employers who fail to comply with the training requirements of California SB 396 may face fines and penalties. Employers may also be liable for damages if an employee experiences harassment or discrimination and the employer failed to provide adequate training.

Employers must take the training requirements seriously and ensure that all employees receive the training. Employers must also ensure that the training is effective and that employees understand their rights and responsibilities under the law.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of California SB 396?

The purpose of California SB 396 is to require employers to provide training on workplace harassment and discrimination.

Who is required to provide training under California SB 396?

Employers with 50 or more employees are required to provide training to all employees.

How often must employers provide training under California SB 396?

Employers must provide training to new employees within six months of hire, and to all employees every two years.

What must the training include under California SB 396?

The training must include information on federal and state laws, as well as the employer's own policies and procedures.

Can employers use online training to comply with California SB 396?

Yes, employers can use online training to comply with California SB 396, as long as the training is interactive and includes questions and answers.

What are the consequences of non-compliance with California SB 396?

Employers who fail to comply with the training requirements of California SB 396 may face fines and penalties, as well as liability for damages.