Talent Agencies Have New Sexual Harassment Responsibilities

2019 brings new responsibilities to talent agencies regarding sexual harassment in California. AB 2338 requires talent agencies must provide their adult artists with educational materials on sexual harassment prevention, retaliation and reporting resources, as well as on nutrition and eating disorders. All materials must be provided within 90 days in a language the artist understands. Artists who are between the ages of 14 and 17, along with their parent or legal guardian, will need to receive and complete training in sexual harassment prevention, retaliation and reporting resources before they are issued a work permit. AB 2338 further requires talent agencies to request and retain a copy of the minor’s entertainment work permit prior to representing or sending that minor on an audition, meeting, or interview for engagement of the minor’s services. The Labor Commissioner may assess civil penalties of $100 for each violation. Talent agencies will also be required to confirm to the Labor Commissioner, as a part of their license renewal process, that they have and will continue to provide the relevant educational materials.