Know Your Rights: New Protections for Crime Victims in California Workplaces
Effective January 1, 2025
Important Changes to California Law
California has strengthened protections for employees who are victims of crime or have family members who are victims. Assembly Bill 2499 expanded your rights and requires employers to inform you about these important protections.
Who Is Protected?
You are protected if you are a victim of:
Domestic violence
Sexual assault
Stalking
Crimes causing serious bodily injury
Threats of injury or death
Crimes that resulted in the death of a family member
Other qualifying crimes or abuse
Additional Protection: If you work for a company with 25 or more employees, you also receive these same protections when a family member is the victim of any of these crimes.
Your Rights as an Employee
Job-Protected Leave
You have the right to take time off work without losing your job to:
Get medical care or counseling for injuries or trauma related to the crime
Create a safety plan including relocating or putting protective measures in place
Access victim services from domestic violence shelters, rape crisis centers, or victim advocacy organizations
Attend court proceedings including hearings for protective orders, restraining orders, or other legal matters related to the crime
Handle other necessary matters such as attending funerals, grieving, or resolving legal and financial issues directly related to being a victim
Workplace Safety Accommodations
You can request reasonable changes to make your workplace safer, such as:
Schedule or location changes to your work arrangements
Enhanced security measures like new locks, safety protocols, or other physical security improvements
Contact information changes including new phone numbers or email addresses
Job transfer or reassignment when appropriate and possible
Protection from Retaliation
Your employer cannot punish, discriminate against, or retaliate against you for:
Taking leave under these protections
Requesting workplace safety accommodations
Telling your employer about your victim status to obtain these protections
What Your Employer Must Do
All California employers are required to:
Provide you with written notice of these rights when you're hired
Give you this information if you request it
Make these protections available to you
Getting Help
If you believe your employer is not following these laws or if you need assistance understanding your rights, contact WorkRight Law, APC at 562-760-8803. Our experienced employment attorneys can help protect your interests and ensure you receive the protections you're entitled to under California law.
Stay Informed
These protections are part of California's ongoing commitment to supporting crime victims in the workplace. Make sure you understand your rights and don't hesitate to use them when needed.
Consultations are free and confidential. If you suspect your rights are being violated, talk to us. There’s no cost to find out if you have a case—and it could mean thousands of dollars back in your pocket.
Contact us today:
Phone: (562) 760-8803
Website: www.WorkRightLaw.com
Don’t let your employer keep what you’ve earned. Know your rights—and take action.
