Bill > H1656

This bill requires human service employers to develop and implement programs that prevent workplace violence. Key provisions include: 1. Requiring employers to conduct annual risk assessments to identify factors that may put employees at risk of workplace violence, such as working in public settings, working alone or in small numbers, and working with patients or residents who may exhibit violent behavior. 2. Mandating that employers develop and implement a written violence prevention plan based on the findings of the risk assessment, which must include employee training and a system for reporting and monitoring incidents of violence or the risk of violence. 3. Requiring employers to designate a senior manager responsible for an in-house crisis response team to support employee-victims of workplace violence, including providing group crisis interventions, individual counseling, and other support services. 4. Empowering the Commissioner of Labor to adopt rules and regulations to implement the purposes of the bill, including guidelines for workplace violence prevention programs, reporting and monitoring systems, and employee training. 5. Establishing penalties of up to $2,000 for each offense for employers who violate the rules, regulations, or requirements, and allowing the Department of Labor, any aggrieved person, or any labor union to file complaints with the district court. 6. Prohibiting employers from penalizing employees who file complaints or provide notice regarding workplace violence risk factors.

Budget and Finance, Labor and Employment

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/191/H1656