California Enacts New Anti-Hate Speech Training Requirements for Employers and Officials

California Governor Gavin Newsom recently signed Assembly Bill 1803 and Assembly Bill 1578 into law, introducing new training requirements regarding workplace speech. Effective January 1, 2028, AB 1803 mandates that employers with five or more staff members include training on identifying and confronting speech that vilifies or incites hatred based on protected characteristics. AB 1578 extends similar training requirements to local government officials, including school board trustees and city council members.

While the legislation has received support from various advocacy groups, it has prompted concern among some Christian organizations. Critics, including the California Family Council, argue that the law’s lack of explicit definitions for "hate speech" could potentially impact the expression of traditional biblical teachings in workplace settings. There is ongoing debate regarding whether religious organizations will be subject to these mandates; some legal analysts suggest that existing state exemptions for nonprofit religious corporations may apply, though the new bills do not contain specific conscience protections.

In response to these concerns, some religious leaders are advising pastors and Christian employees to seek legal guidance regarding their rights. The state is expected to develop standardized online courses to assist officials in meeting the new requirements.