The Golden State is seeking to put an end to workplace harassment and it is one of only three states (including Connecticut and Maine) that require training on workplace harassment avoidance and prevention. However, reports continue to emerge of abuse and recently, former Rep., Katie Hill, was accused of perpetrating workplace abuse via Tweets allegedly posted by former staff – as reported by CBS Local. The hacker claimed that Hill “took advantage of her subordinates… She caused immense harm to the people who worked for her, many of whom were young women just beginning their careers in politics.” Hill soon responded stating that her Twitter account had been hacked after she resigned.

Hill’s Resignation

Hill had been involved in a previous scandal when, just nine months into her first term, allegations surfaced that she had been sexually involved with members of staff, leading to her resignation. Hill had previously headed the 25th Congressional District, which encompasses Santa Clarita, as well as northern Los Angeles and Eastern Ventura counties. The allegations of abuse have not been taken further but they do beg the question of how bullying, abuse, and sexual assault are dealt iwth in the workplace.

How Prevalent is Workplace Abuse in California?

A 2019 report by the Center for Gender Equity and Health (GEH) at University of California San Diego School of Medicine and the nonprofit organization California Coalition Against Sexual Assault (CALCASA) has found that despite its best efforts, California still rates above the national average for sexual harassment. As stated by harassment lawyer San Diego specialists, bullying, sexual harassment, and sexual assault are often underreported for two vital reasons: fear of retaliation and fear of of their organization failing to take the case seriously and failing to do something about it. It is vital for employees to understand and review their organization’s harassment policy so they follow due procedures for reporting issues. Complaints should be in writing and each incident of harassment should be written down, with the date and time included, as well as the names of witnesses, and any other pertinent information available.

Stopping Workplace Abuse

In a recent report centered on the Los Angeles area (entitled The Hollywood Survey Report – Bullying), the Hollywood Commission found that 64% of employees feel that perpetrators will not be held accountable for assault and that only 28% of those who have been harassed or assaulted reported this fact to their superiors or their HR or legal teams. The findings are key in that they highlight the need for major change in companies and organizations in California. The report recommended key changes which include establishing strict codes of conduct with respect to bullying, harassment and assault; the establishment of clear policies for processing complaints; and staff training to stress the importance of building harassment-free corporate cultures.

Former Rep. Katie Hill was recently accused of abuse at work, a subject that hits close to home for many employees in California. Statistics show that the Golden State still rates highly when it comes to work harassment, higher than the national average. Reports indicate that further work is needed – including the establishment of stricter codes and the provision of training to staff.

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