Bill > S0126

This bill provides protections for employees regarding their rights to free speech, religious freedom, and political expression in the workplace by prohibiting employers from taking adverse employment actions against workers who refuse to attend mandatory meetings or listen to communications about political or religious matters. The bill specifically defines "political matters" as topics unrelated to the employer's business (such as elections, political parties, or legislative proposals) and "religious matters" as relating to religious affiliation and practices. Employers cannot discharge, discipline, or penalize employees who decline to participate in employer-sponsored meetings or communications primarily focused on expressing opinions about political or religious topics. The bill includes exceptions for legally required communications, job-related information, academic institution communications, and casual conversations. Religious corporations are exempted from certain requirements when discussing religious matters with employees directly connected to their activities. If an employee successfully brings a civil action under this law, they may be awarded injunctive relief, reinstatement, back pay, restored benefits, and reasonable attorneys' fees and costs. The legislation would take effect immediately upon passage.

Labor and Employment

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