Violence in the workplace laws are quickly being established in the states to prevent and address the growing problem of workplace violence. Workplace violence laws address issues such as the use and possession of guns and other weapons in the workplace, stalking, harassment, and domestic violence in the workplace. Employers can also practice workplace violence prevention by establishing workplace violence policies which address issues such as zero-tolerance, identifying potentially dangerous behaviors, and violence response procedures.

States such as Arizona, Colorado, Florida and Texas have passed laws that prohibit or specifically establish an individual’s right to possess a firearm, including keeping a gun in a car in a parking lot at work. On the other hand, states such as California, Illinois, Massachusetts and New York have established laws that grant job protection and leave to employees who are victims of domestic violence at work or at home, sexual assault, and other violence.