The California Worker Freedom from Employer Intimidation Act is a law designed to protect employees from being forced into workplace discussions about political or religious matters. It ensures that workers have the right to decline participation in certain employer-sponsored meetings or communications without fear of punishment.
Under this law, an employee is anyone who works under the control of an employer for wages. An employer includes companies, government agencies, schools, and other organizations. The law defines political matters as topics like elections, political parties, or labor organizations, and religious matters as anything related to religious practices or affiliations.
Employers cannot fire, discriminate against, or retaliate against employees who choose not to attend meetings or engage in discussions about political or religious issues. Employees who are working during such meetings and opt out must still be paid for their time.
Violations of this law carry penalties. Employers may face fines of $500 per affected employee, and employees can seek legal action to recover damages. The Labor Commissioner can also investigate violations and take action against employers who break this law.
Certain exceptions exist, such as communications required by law, job-related information, and academic discussions in educational settings. Additionally, religious or political organizations and some nonprofit programs are exempt under specific conditions. This type of protection is long overdue in modern divisive, politically polarized society. It looks like this critical new law goes into effect beginning in 2025.
(See Link(s): Labor Code 1137)