California Assembly Speaker Rivas, Brother Sued for Retaliation, Harassment

Cynthia Moreno, former press secretary to California Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas, has filed a lawsuit accusing Rivas and his brother Rick Rivas, vice president of the American Beverage Association for California, of retaliation after she reported sexual harassment and unethical conduct. Moreno alleges that after filing complaints, her job responsibilities were stripped, she was denied a pay raise, and ultimately terminated in August 2024, following an investigation into sexual harassment allegations against her which she denies. The lawsuit claims the Rivas brothers improperly intermingled campaign and state resources, and that Rick Rivas used his political influence to affect Moreno's employment. Robert Rivas and his representatives deny all allegations, stating the Workplace Conduct Unit independently handled Moreno’s termination and that the claims are fabrications aimed at forcing a payout. The first hearing is scheduled for October 30, 2026, and the Assembly Rules Committee and the Rivas brothers have vowed to aggressively fight the lawsuit. Moreno seeks damages for lost wages, benefits, and harm to her career from the alleged retaliation and unethical practices.