California anti hate speech workplace training law faces criticism from Christian groups

California Governor Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill 1803 into law last month, the New York Post and Fox News reported. The legislation requires employers with five or more workers to incorporate anti-hate speech instruction into their current workplace harassment training. Christian groups and pastors have raised objections to the law, arguing that it compels businesses to support a government-approved viewpoint. [1][2]

According to the New York Post and Fox News, the legislation mandates specific additions to state training requirements. Covered employers must provide instruction that guides staff on recognizing, reporting, and addressing workplace misconduct. Critics cited by both outlets contend that the legal language functions more like a lesson in gender theory than a standard anti-harassment policy. [1][2]

California has permitted same-sex sexual activity since 1976 and introduced statewide protections against discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity in 2003. State rules also allow transgender individuals to update their legal gender on official documents without undergoing medical interventions, while mental health providers are banned from practicing conversion therapy on minors. [3]

The new workplace instruction requirements established under Assembly Bill 1803 will officially take effect on January 1, 2028, the New York Post and Fox News reported. [1][2]