AB 2261 Summary

• Amends Labor Code Section 98.7 to authorize the Division of Labor Standards Enforcement to initiate investigations of employers suspected of unlawful discharge or discrimination without receiving a complaint from an employee.

• Allows the division to commence investigations based on its own suspicion that an employer violated any law under the Labor Commissioner's jurisdiction, with assigned investigators preparing reports to the Labor Commissioner.

• Updates investigation procedures to apply to both employee-filed complaints and division-initiated investigations, with similar requirements for interviews, document review, and confidentiality of witnesses.

• Clarifies that the Labor Commissioner may dismiss or close investigations (in addition to complaints) and that complainants may bring court actions if they disagree with dismissals related to alleged violations of whistleblower protection laws.

• Extends the 60-day determination deadline to apply to investigations commenced by the division pursuant to this new authority.