(a) For purposes of this section, “department” refers to the Civil Rights Department.

(b) (1) On or before January 1, 2025, the department shall establish a pilot program that recognizes businesses for creating safe and welcoming environments free from discrimination and harassment of customers.

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(2) To qualify for recognition under the pilot program, a business shall meet the criteria set out by the department, which may include, but not be limited to, the following:

(A) Demonstrating compliance with Section 51.

(B) Offering additional training to educate and inform employees or build skills.

(C) Informing the public of their rights to be free from discrimination and harassment and how to report violations.

(D) Outlining a code of conduct for the public that encourages respectful and civil behavior.

(E) Any other actions designed to prevent and respond to discrimination and harassment regardless of the identity of the perpetrator.

(3) The department shall provide a certificate to qualifying businesses that may be prominently displayed on site and publish on its internet website a database of businesses receiving that certificate.

(4) On or before January 1, 2028, the department shall evaluate whether that recognition is effective, including, at a minimum, whether it affects customer behavior, incentivizes compliance among businesses with Section 51, or reduces the incidence of discrimination and harassment at businesses.

(5) Recognition under the pilot program does not establish and is not relevant to any defense of claims brought under existing law.

(c) This section shall remain in effect only until July 1, 2028, and as of that date is repealed.

(Added by Stats. 2022, Ch. 315, Sec. 1. (AB 2448) Effective January 1, 2023. Repealed as of July 1, 2028, by its own provisions.)