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Bill

Bill

A 1678

Requires retail worker employers to develop and implement programs to prevent workplace violence

2025 Regular Session Introduced by William Colton and 2 co-sponsors

Bill A 1678 mandates retail employers to create programs preventing workplace violence, enhancing safety for workers and improving overall shopping conditions.

SUBSTITUTED BY S740
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Bill Summary · A 1678

Summary of Bill A 1678

Bill Number: A 1678
Title: Requires retail worker employers to develop and implement programs to prevent workplace violence
Status: Substituted by S740
Introduced: January 10, 2025
Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

Bill A 1678 aims to enhance the safety of retail workers by mandating employers in the retail sector to create and implement comprehensive programs designed to prevent workplace violence. The bill recognizes the increasing incidents of violence in retail environments and seeks to establish a proactive approach to safeguarding employees.

Key Provisions

  • Program Development: Employers in the retail sector will be required to develop specific programs aimed at preventing workplace violence. These programs must include:

    • Risk assessments to identify potential hazards.
    • Training for employees on how to recognize and respond to violent situations.
    • Procedures for reporting incidents of violence.
    • Support systems for affected employees.
  • Implementation Timeline: The bill outlines a timeline for employers to implement these programs, ensuring that they are operational within a specified period after the bill's enactment.

  • Compliance and Reporting: Employers will be required to maintain records of incidents and provide reports to relevant authorities, demonstrating compliance with the program requirements.

Who Would Be Affected

  • Retail Employers: All employers operating within the retail sector will be directly impacted by this legislation, as they will need to allocate resources to develop and implement the required programs.

  • Retail Workers: The primary beneficiaries of this bill are retail workers, who will gain increased protection and support in their workplace, potentially reducing the risk of violence.

  • Customers: While the bill focuses on employee safety, improved workplace conditions may also enhance the overall shopping environment for customers.

Legislative Actions and Timeline

  • January 10, 2025: Bill A 1678 was introduced and referred to the Labor Committee.
  • January 28, 2025: The bill was reported and referred to the Codes and Rules Committees.
  • February 4, 2025: The bill was substituted by S740, which is its companion bill.

Related Bills

  • S 740: This is the companion bill to A 1678, which likely contains similar provisions regarding workplace violence prevention in the retail sector.

Conclusion

Bill A 1678 represents a significant step towards improving workplace safety for retail employees by requiring employers to take proactive measures against violence. The successful implementation of this bill could lead to safer working conditions and a more supportive environment for retail workers across the state.

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

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