Portantino’s School Employee Protection Bill Heads to Governor

For Immediate Release: September 14, 2023

Contact: Lerna Shirinian, (818) 409-0400

Portantino’s School Employee Protection Bill Heads to Governor

Sacramento, California – Senate Bill 596, authored by Senator Anthony J. Portantino (D – Burbank), passed the Senate and is headed to the Governor. The bill addresses the issue of school employees facing harassment and threats while pursuing the private lives.

“No one should be threatened or harassed for providing academic instruction in accordance with California state law,” said Senator Portantino. “SB 596 seeks to ensure that educators can be safe on their own time while in public. It’s important to also be clear that this bill does not infringe or affect a parent’s ability to interact with their school district or advocate on behalf of their children. It simply protects employees in the same manner and courtesy everyone would expect for a hardworking family member. My hope is that SB 596 reminds people that passionate advocates don’t need to resort to threats and harrasement to be effective.”

SB 596 would make it a misdemeanor to harass a school employee or make credible threats against the employee or their family for reasons related to the employee’s official duties, while they are away from a school site or after school hours. Constitutionally protected speech remains protected under SB 596. The measure does not infringe on free speech or stifle parental involvement in public education.

“We are grateful to Senator Portantino for his leadership on SB 596 and thank the Legislature for sending this important measure to the Governor’s desk,” stated Gagik Galfayan and Patrick Davarhanian, teachers from the Glendale Unified School District. “Civil discourse and respect for quality public education is essential. Educators should not be threatened or harassed for providing academic instruction in accordance with California state standards.”

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