Bill > H2190

This bill amends Massachusetts law to strengthen workplace harassment prevention requirements by mandating comprehensive policies and training for employers. Specifically, employers must develop a detailed written policy against unlawful harassment that includes clear statements about the illegality of harassment, descriptions of harassment types, potential consequences for offenders, complaint filing procedures, and contact information for enforcement agencies. By January 1, 2027, employers must provide all employees with a written copy of this policy and implement annual harassment prevention training that meets specific standards. The training, which must be at least one hour long, must include interactive components, legal compliance information, bystander intervention techniques, examples of harassment, information on remedies, and specific guidance for supervisory staff. For online training, additional requirements include demonstrating active employee participation and allowing anonymous questions. Employers must maintain training records for at least five years and make them available to state authorities upon request. Importantly, while employers are required to develop these policies and provide training, compliance does not automatically protect them from potential harassment liability. The Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination will develop a model policy and poster to assist employers in meeting these requirements.

Labor and Employment

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H2190