Bill > HB422

This bill, known as the Behind the Counter Safety Act, requires certain businesses in Louisiana, referred to as "regulated establishments" (which include retail stores, pharmacies, restaurants, and gas stations with food counters), to develop and implement written plans to prevent workplace violence. These plans must address identifying risks, implementing safety measures like panic buttons or bullet-resistant enclosures, training employees on de-escalation and emergency procedures, and establishing systems for reporting and investigating incidents. Businesses must also display warning signs stating that violence against employees is a crime, report all workplace violence incidents to local law enforcement and the Department of Louisiana Works, and provide post-incident support for employees. The Department of Louisiana Works will track reported incidents, maintain public information on workplace violence prevention, and enforce compliance with the act, with penalties for violations. Furthermore, the bill prohibits retaliation against employees who report workplace violence or participate in prevention activities.