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H 2143

An Act relative to employment protections for victims of abusive behavior

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Natalie Blais and 8 co-sponsors

Massachusetts bill establishes employment protections allowing abuse victims to request leave, schedule changes, and workplace safety measures without retaliation or termination.

Read second and ordered to a third reading
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Bill Summary · H 2143

Legislative bill overview

H 2143 creates employment protections for victims of abusive behavior, including domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking. The bill allows employees to take leave, modify work schedules, or request workplace safety measures without fear of retaliation or termination.

Why is this important

Victims of abuse often face barriers to employment stability due to safety concerns, legal proceedings, and recovery needs. These protections enable abuse survivors to maintain income and health insurance while addressing safety issues, reducing economic vulnerability that often traps victims in dangerous situations.

Potential points of contention

  • Employer burden and implementation costs: Small businesses may face administrative challenges and costs associated with accommodations, leave tracking, and workplace modifications without clear guidance or funding
  • Definitional scope and documentation: Determining what constitutes "abusive behavior" and what evidence employers can require from victims raises privacy concerns and may create barriers for undocumented survivors or those without formal reports
  • Balancing employee protections with employer operations: Defining reasonable leave duration, scheduling flexibility, and workplace changes without creating undue hardship on business operations remains undefined

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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