This bill aims to protect employees from discrimination by employers based on their status as candidates or their intention to become candidates for public office. It defines key terms such as "candidate," "employee," and "employer," with the latter being specified as any person employing five or more individuals in the state. The bill prohibits employers from discharging, disciplining, or otherwise discriminating against employees for being candidates or for engaging in candidate-related activities during nonworking hours.

In addition to the prohibitions, the bill establishes civil penalties for violations, allowing for fines of up to $2,000. Employees who experience discrimination can pursue civil action for damages, including lost wages and injunctive relief, with the court required to award costs and reasonable attorney fees to prevailing plaintiffs. The bill also clarifies that it applies to collective bargaining agreements or other employment agreements that conflict with its provisions, effective upon the expiration or modification of such agreements.