New legislation introduced to protect of Scotland's retail workers

New legislation has been introduced today (Tuesday, 24 August 2021) to offer increased protection to Scotland’s retail workers.

The new law comes into effect following the passing of the Protection of Workers (Scotland) Bill.

A new offence has been created for situations where a retail worker is assaulted, threatened or abused while engaged in their work.

Committing this offence while a retail worker is enforcing a statutory age restriction also constitutes an aggravation.

The offence can result in a fine, with penalties escalating to a prison sentence, with the aggravation adding the potential for more significant fine/sentence.