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Bill

Bill

S 5254

Protects certain employees from a reduction of wages due to their involvement in the investigation of a violation of a workplace violence protection program

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Cordell Cleare and 7 co-sponsors

Bill S 5254 protects employees from wage cuts when they report or investigate workplace violence, promoting safety and encouraging reporting without fear of retaliation.

SIGNED CHAP.364
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Bill Summary · S 5254

Summary of Bill S 5254

Bill Number: S 5254
Title: Protects Certain Employees from a Reduction of Wages Due to Their Involvement in the Investigation of a Violation of a Workplace Violence Protection Program
Status: Signed into Law (Chapter 364)
Introduced: February 20, 2025

Purpose and Intent

Bill S 5254 aims to safeguard employees who participate in investigations related to workplace violence protection programs. The primary intent is to ensure that employees are not penalized financially for their involvement in such investigations, thereby promoting a safer work environment and encouraging reporting of workplace violence incidents without fear of retaliation.

Key Provisions

  • Protection Against Wage Reduction: The bill explicitly prohibits employers from reducing the wages of employees who are involved in investigations concerning violations of workplace violence protection programs.

  • Scope of Protection: This protection applies to all employees who report incidents or participate in investigations, ensuring that their financial stability is not compromised as a result of their actions aimed at enhancing workplace safety.

  • Enforcement Mechanism: The bill establishes a framework for employees to report violations of this wage protection, providing them with a clear avenue for recourse if they experience wage reductions as a result of their involvement in investigations.

Affected Parties

  • Employees: The primary beneficiaries of this legislation are employees who may witness or be involved in incidents of workplace violence. They are now afforded greater security in their employment status and financial well-being when they report or participate in investigations.

  • Employers: Employers will need to adjust their policies and practices to comply with the new requirements, ensuring that they do not retaliate against employees who engage in protected activities related to workplace violence investigations.

Legislative Timeline

  • February 20, 2025: Bill introduced and referred to the Labor Committee.
  • March 3, 2025: First report calendar.
  • March 5, 2025: Advanced to third reading.
  • March 26, 2025: Passed in the Senate and delivered to the Assembly.
  • June 11, 2025: Substituted for companion bill A 6612, passed in the Assembly, and returned to the Senate.
  • September 5, 2025: Delivered to the Governor and signed into law as Chapter 364.

Conclusion

Bill S 5254 represents a significant step towards enhancing workplace safety by protecting employees who take action against workplace violence. By ensuring that these employees are not subjected to wage reductions, the legislation encourages a culture of reporting and accountability, ultimately contributing to safer work environments.

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

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