Employers of 50 or more employees (including both independent contractors and temporary service employees) are now required to provide at least two hours of classroom or other interactive sexual harassment training to all supervisory employees at least once every two years.  For supervisors occupying their position on or before July 1, 2005, the training must be provided by January 1, 2006.  (The January 1, 2006 deadline does not apply if supervisors received training complying with the new statute fewer than two years prior to that date.)  For supervisors who assume their position after July 1, 2005, the training must be provided within six months of hire or promotion into the supervisory position.  After an employer's initial compliance, supervisory training must be conducted again every two years.  

The training must be conducted by trainers or educators with knowledge and expertise in the prevention of harassment, discrimination and retaliation, and must include practical examples.   As the training must be interactive, it is unlikely that video training alone will be sufficient.  Severson & Werson recommends and can provide harassment training for all employers, whether or not covered by this statute.  Please contact Tracey K. Merwise at tkm@severson.com for additional information.