California law protects employees who are victims of crime or abuse, ensuring they do not face discrimination or retaliation for seeking justice, medical care, or workplace accommodations. With the passage of AB 2499, these protections have been expanded, reinforcing the rights of victims and holding employers accountable under the Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA). This law builds upon existing protections in Labor Code sections 230 and 230.1, which prohibit employers from terminating or discriminating against employees who take time off to appear in court, seek medical care, or request workplace safety measures. Under AB 2499, employers are now required to provide reasonable accommodations, such as modifying work duties, schedules, or locations to ensure a victim’s safety and well-being. The law also broadens the definition of qualifying acts of violence, now covering domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, acts causing great bodily injury, and threats involving firearms or other weapons. AB 2499 further strengthens employee rights by expanding leave protections. Employees can now use vacation, personal leave, paid sick leave, or compensatory time off to assist family members who have been victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking. Covered family members include parents, children, grandparents, grandchildren, siblings, spouses, domestic partners, and designated persons. Employers are also required to notify employees of these rights at key moments, including upon hire, annually, upon request, and when an employee discloses that they or a family member is a victim. If an employer fails to comply with these requirements, employees can file complaints with the Division of Labor Standards Enforcement (DLSE) or the California Civil Rights Department (CRD). These agencies now have the authority to enforce these protections and hold employers accountable for violations. At Goyette, Ruano & Thompson, we are committed to protecting the rights of employees and ensuring that victims of crime receive the support they need without fear of losing their jobs. If you believe your rights have been violated, fill out an intake form today, and one of our attorneys will contact you to discuss your potential case.