California Supreme Court Expands Basis for Harassment Claims While Limiting Punitive Damages Against Employers

California Employment Law Update

On November 30, 2009, in Roby v. McKesson Corporation, the California Supreme Court ruled on two significant issues for California employers: (1) whether evidence of personnel actions can support harassment claims; and (2) whether the amount of punitive damages awarded was constitutionally excessive. The Court answered both questions in the affirmative.