Bill > H1757

This bill, concerning non-discrimination training in the workplace, amends Chapter 151B of the General Laws by encouraging employers and labor organizations to provide education and training programs for new non-supervisory employees and members within one year of starting employment or membership, covering information outlined in the section. Additionally, it introduces a new section encouraging employers to provide at least two hours of interactive training and education on illegal workplace discrimination, harassment, and retaliation to all supervisory and managerial employees by January 1, 2016, and to new hires within six months of assuming such roles, with a requirement for this training to be repeated every two years after January 1, 2017. This training should include information on federal and state laws, remedies for victims, and practical guidance on prevention, and must be delivered by knowledgeable trainers. While compliance with this training does not automatically shield an employer from liability, it can serve as an affirmative defense against claims arising from a supervisor's or manager's actions or inaction, provided the training was completed after January 1, 2015. The bill emphasizes that this training sets a minimum standard and does not prevent employers from offering more extensive programs to fulfill their obligation to prevent and correct workplace discrimination, harassment, and retaliation.