Christian Groups Criticize New Hate Speech Training Law in California

Christian communities and churches in California are objecting to a new legislative measure. This law mandates that employers integrate ‘anti-hate speech’ instruction into harassment training sessions at workplaces. Critics from conservative Christian groups argue the measure pushes a government-endorsed perspective, particularly on issues of sexual orientation and gender identity.

Gov. Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill 1803 into law, effective January 1, 2028. Employers with five or more employees must integrate training on recognizing and reporting speech that vilifies or incites hatred based on protected characteristics, including sexual orientation and gender identity. Churches following biblical teachings against homosexual acts aren’t explicitly exempt from this requirement.

The legislation mandates training on identifying speech that incites hatred based on protected characteristics.

Critics such as the California Family Council worry the law could lead to workplace disputes involving traditional Christian teachings on sexuality and gender. Greg Burt of the CFC told Fox News Digital the law seems to retrain the population’s beliefs on gender and sexual orientation. Burt criticized the state’s curriculum as condemning conservative views.

Dr. Paul Chappell, pastor of Lancaster Baptist Church, expressed concerns over the bill on a podcast, describing it as poorly written with bias against conservatives. Burt emphasized the challenge of regulating undefined terms, commenting on this during a legislative committee hearing.

Burt pointed out that previous amendments to harassment training regarding gender identity created confusion, prompting the development of the new curriculum by California’s Civil Rights Department. The training defines ‘gender identity’ broadly, including male, female, and nonbinary identities.

The law applies to public sector employees as well. Burt warned that it could expose employers and employees to lawsuits if religious beliefs become disciplinary issues. Equality California supports the legislation, citing gaps in current harassment training that lead to hostile work environments.

Pastor Jack Hibbs criticized the measure, claiming it’s an encroachment on religious institutions. He noted California’s legislative history as aggressive in supporting the LGBTQ community, doubting their moral oversight in matters concerning church conduct.

While Fox News Digital sought comments from various parties, some declined. Governor Newsom’s office and the California Civil Rights Department were contacted for comments as well.