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Bill

AB 1961

Civil actions: protective orders: workplace violence.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Patrick Ahrens

AB 1961 authorizes California courts to issue civil protective orders against individuals posing workplace violence threats, providing employers and workers a civil remedy separate from criminal prosecution.

Referred to Com. on JUD.
#civilactions #protectiveorders #workplaceviolence
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Bill Summary · AB 1961

Legislative bill overview

AB 1961 establishes a civil action mechanism allowing individuals to petition courts for protective orders against workplace violence threats. The bill creates a legal pathway for employees, employers, or other workplace participants to seek court-issued restraining orders against persons who pose a credible threat of violence in employment settings.

Why is this important

Workplace violence remains a significant occupational safety concern, with employees facing threats that may not meet criminal thresholds but still create dangerous conditions. This bill provides a civil remedy option that could enable faster, lower-burden interventions than waiting for criminal prosecution, potentially preventing incidents before they escalate.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition ambiguity: What constitutes a "credible threat" in workplace contexts may vary; overly broad definitions could chill legitimate workplace speech or labor organizing, while narrow ones may fail to protect vulnerable workers
  • Due process concerns: Protective orders can restrict someone's conduct or movement; opponents may argue civil proceedings lack sufficient evidentiary rigor compared to criminal standards
  • Employer liability questions: Unclear whether employers face liability for failing to report threats, obtaining orders, or enforcing them; could create significant compliance burdens on businesses of all sizes

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

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