Bill > H2049

This bill amends Chapter 150A of the General Laws to add provisions regarding wrongful discharge from employment. The key provisions are: 1. It defines terms such as "constructive discharge," "discharge," "employee," "fringe benefits," "good cause," and "lost wages." 2. It states that a discharge is wrongful if it was in retaliation for the employee's refusal to violate public policy, was not for good cause and the employee had completed the employer's probationary period, or the employer violated its written personnel policy. 3. It establishes a probationary period of employment, during which the employment can be terminated at will. 4. It allows employees who have been wrongfully discharged to recover lost wages and fringe benefits for up to 4 years, with deductions for interim earnings. Punitive damages may be awarded in cases of actual fraud or malice. 5. The bill excludes certain types of discharges, such as those covered by other state or federal statutes, collective bargaining agreements, or written employment contracts.

Labor and Employment

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/192/H2049