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HRMA Legislative Bulletin December 2025. Topic: Victim Protections — Massachusetts Employers
Overview
HRMA Legislative Bulletin December 2025...
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HRMA Legislative Bulletin December 2025. Topic: Victim Protections — Massachusetts Employers
Dec. 1, 2025
Overview
HRMA Legislative Bulletin December 2025
Topic: Victim Protections — Massachusetts Employers
Why This Matters
Massachusetts law provides strong protections for employees who are victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, or kidnapping under the Domestic Violence Leave Act (M.G.L. c. 149, § 52E). Employers with 50 or more employees must provide job-protected leave and workplace accommodations while safeguarding employee privacy.
Key Employer Obligations
- Coverage: Employers with 50+ employees
- Leave: Up to 15 days of job-protected leave in a 12-month period
- Permitted Uses:
- Medical care or counseling
- Victim services (e.g., safety planning, support programs)
- Court appearances or legal proceedings
- Housing, child custody, or safety-related matters
- Prohibited Actions: No discrimination or retaliation for requesting or taking leave
- Pay Status: Leave may be paid or unpaid depending on policy
Action Items for Employers
- Review and update your leave policies to ensure compliance with M.G.L. c. 149, § 52E
- Include victim protections and leave details in your employee handbook
- Train managers and HR staff to respond appropriately to leave/accommodation requests
- Maintain confidentiality for all leave requests and documentation
- Document requests carefully while protecting employee privacy
Download the Legislative Update, which includes:
- Sample Victim Leave Policy
- Next Steps for Employers
- Additional Resources
