By Bob Katzen

The House gave initial approval to a proposal that would prohibit discrimination against an employee based on their status as a victim of abusive behavior. The measure requires employers to provide reasonable accommodations to ensure employees are able to take the necessary precautions to protect themselves and address the situation, while remaining productive in the workplace.

“I filed this legislation because Massachusetts needs stronger employment protections for individuals in the commonwealth who are either experiencing abusive behavior or have a family member experiencing abuse,” said Senate Majority Leader Sen. Cindy Creem (D-Newton), the Senate sponsor of the bill. “The reforms included in this bill will help ensure victims of abuse and their family members are not unfairly penalized in the workplace for requesting reasonable accommodations to protect themselves or a loved one from a dangerous situation.”

Rep. Jay Livingstone (D-Boston), the House sponsor of the bill, did not respond to repeated requests by Beacon Hill Roll asking him why he filed the measure and how he feels about its approval.