Press Release

Senator Smallwood-Cuevas’ Statement on the Governor Signing SB 1340 to Localize Enforcement of Workplace Discrimination Cases

Governor Gavin Newsom today signed SB 1340, a critical workplace enforcement bill authored by Senator Lola Smallwood-Cuevas (D-Los Angeles) and a priority bill of the Reparations legislative package. SB 1340 would give a voice to all Californians who encounter discrimination by empowering them to remedy civil rights cases in the regions where the discrimination occurred. Senator Smallwood-Cuevas has released the following statement on the bill’s signing:
 

“Today’s signing of SB 1340 is a monumental step forward in our fight for equity and justice. By empowering cities across California to investigate and enforce civil rights cases, we can ensure our communities have the tools they need to fight against workplace discrimination, especially for Black workers who are twice as likely to file employment discrimination complaints but have half the chance of accessing remedies through the court system.

 

“Too often, low-wage workers of color who face discrimination find themselves either quitting their jobs or continue suffering unjust treatment because they don’t have access to legal resources to file their complaints. SB 1340 will enable workers to seek redress locally and more swiftly, without the barriers that often deter them from coming forward.

 

“I commend Governor Newsom for signing this pivotal legislation, and I thank our community partners and worker rights advocates who have championed this cause. Together, we are building a more equitable California for all workers.”

 

Senator Lola Smallwood Cuevas represents the 28th Senate District, which includes the communities of South Los Angeles, Culver City, West Los Angeles, Century City and Downtown Los Angeles. Senator Smallwood-Cuevas spent more than two decades serving as a labor organizer, civil rights activist and community advocate before her election to the State Senate. She resides in the View Park community of South Los Angeles with her family.

 

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