Sexual harassment prevention training is not just good policy — it’s required by law in California, and that includes all workplaces in Los Angeles.
Whether you’re an employer seeking compliance or an employee wanting to know your rights, this guide breaks down the 2025 training requirements, who they apply to, and how to stay legally protected under both California state law and Los Angeles ordinances.
Who Must Provide Sexual Harassment Prevention Training in Los Angeles?
All California employers with 5 or more employees — including part-time and temporary staff — are legally required to provide harassment prevention training. This mandate applies fully to Los Angeles employers.
Required Training Applies to:
- All supervisors and managers
- All nonsupervisory employees
- Seasonal and temporary workers (after 30 days of employment)
- Contract workers and interns, in many cases
If you operate in LA, you must comply — even if your workforce is partially remote or split across multiple locations.
What Does the Training Have to Include?
Per California Government Code Section 12950.1 (AB 1825 and SB 1343), training must cover:
- The definition and types of sexual harassment
- Abusive conduct and hostile work environment examples
- Laws that prohibit harassment and retaliation
- What to do if you are harassed or witness harassment
- Bystander intervention strategies
- How to file complaints with CRD or internally
- Employer obligations under the law
Training Duration Requirements
| Employee Type | Training Length | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Supervisors/Managers | 2 hours | Every 2 years |
| Non-supervisory Employees | 1 hour | Every 2 years |
New hires must be trained within 6 months of their start date.
Can Employers Use Online or Free Training Tools?
Yes. The California Civil Rights Department (CRD) offers free, state-compliant training modules online — available in multiple languages.
Access them here: https://calcivilrights.ca.gov/shpt/
Employers may also:
- Use third-party training vendors
- Deliver in-person training
- Combine video, quizzes, and live sessions
But the content must meet California’s standards, and records of attendance must be kept.
Does Los Angeles Have Additional Requirements?
While LA follows state law for harassment training, local agencies like the Los Angeles Civil + Human Rights and Equity Department (CHRED):
- May audit businesses as part of civil rights enforcement
- Provide local outreach and education to employers
- Offer city-specific resources and guidelines for compliance
Employers operating in Los Angeles are encouraged to go beyond state minimums by offering:
- Training in employees’ primary language
- Clear local reporting options
- Zero-tolerance policies for retaliation
What Happens If an LA Employer Doesn’t Comply?
Failure to provide training can result in:
- State audits and penalties
- Increased liability if a harassment claim is filed
- Damaged reputation, especially in public-facing industries
- Loss of contracts for government or corporate partnerships
If a harassment case reaches court and the employer can’t prove training was conducted, it may be seen as negligence or willful violation.
Do Employees Have a Right to Request Training?
Yes. If your employer hasn’t provided training, you can:
- Request it in writing or via HR
- Contact the California CRD to report a violation
- Speak with a local LA employment attorney if you feel unsafe or targeted
You have the right to a safe, harassment-free workplace — and that starts with informed prevention.
Compliance Builds Safer Workplaces in Los Angeles
Los Angeles employers have both a legal duty and moral obligation to prevent sexual harassment through training. In 2025, there’s no excuse not to comply.
For employees: Know your rights. For employers: Get compliant — protect your people and your business.
