(Sacramento, CA) - Assemblymember Lisa Calderon introduced AB 1940 to update the Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) to explicitly include menopause within the definition of "sex" and strengthen employee awareness of workplace protections. The bill also requires updated workplace notices and statewide outreach on menopause-related employment rights. AB 1940 ensures California law clearly protects workers experiencing perimenopause, menopause, and post-menopause from discrimination and harassment.

"For too long, workers experiencing menopause have navigated the workplace without a clear understanding of their rights," said Assemblymember Calderon. "AB 1940 makes it clear that no one should face discrimination or harassment because of a natural biological transition, and it ensures employees know the protections available to them."

California's Fair Employment and Housing Act is the state's primary civil rights law prohibiting harassment and discrimination in employment based on protected characteristics, including sex. While existing law specifies that the definition of "sex" includes pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, and related medical conditions, it does not explicitly reference menopause.

An estimated 39 million women in the U.S. workforce are experiencing or approaching menopause, with menopause-related challenges contributing to approximately $1.8 billion in lost productivity annually. AB 1940 would update FEHA's definition of "sex" to include perimenopause, menopause, post-menopause, and related medical conditions, require the California Department of Civil Rights to revise its workplace discrimination poster, and direct the Governor's Office of Community Partnerships and Strategic Engagement to conduct statewide outreach on menopause-related employment rights.

"Clear guidance benefits both employees and employers," continued Assemblymember Calderon. "When workers understand their rights and businesses understand their responsibilities, we create healthier workplaces and retain experienced employees who are vital to our economy."

AB 1940 reinforces California's leadership in workplace equity by clarifying the law and promoting awareness of existing civil rights protections. By ensuring workers experiencing menopause feel supported rather than sidelined, the legislation strengthens workforce participation, reduces preventable job loss, and promotes dignity in the workplace.

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