California Department of Industrial Relations Launches Program to Support Women in Construction
The California Department of Industrial Relations (DIR) has initiated a new program aimed at supporting women's careers, rights, and safety within the state's construction industry. This initiative, established through legislation signed by Governor Newsom as part of the 2022/23 Budget Act, seeks to assist women and nonbinary individuals in entering and thriving in the construction workforce. The program provides resources for employers, current construction workers, and those interested in the field, focusing on workplace rights and support systems. Key aspects include information on mentorship programs, childcare resources, trade and training opportunities, parental leave rights, workplace safety, workers' rights against wage theft and retaliation, and prevention of discrimination and harassment. The DIR also maintains an internet website dedicated to workers' rights and is developing materials and training for employers and unions to promote recruitment and retention of women in construction. An advisor...