Bill > SB477

This bill amends several sections of California's Government Code related to the California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) to clarify and expand enforcement procedures for civil rights complaints. The bill defines a "group or class complaint" as including any complaint alleging a pattern or practice, and extends the time periods for filing and investigating complaints in several ways. Specifically, the bill allows for tolling (pausing) of complaint filing deadlines during dispute resolution proceedings, during appeals of complaint closures, and through written agreements between the department and respondents. The bill also modifies provisions related to when the Civil Rights Department can issue right-to-sue notices, particularly for group or class complaints, by allowing these notices to be issued only after all related administrative proceedings, civil actions, and appeals have been fully resolved. Additionally, the bill removes specific restrictions on the counties where civil actions can be filed, giving the department more flexibility in choosing venue. These changes are designed to provide more comprehensive protection against discrimination and give complainants more opportunities to pursue their claims through administrative and legal channels.

Budget and Finance, Justice

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billStatusClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260SB477