Bill > HB594

This bill introduces two new sections to Kentucky law that aim to protect employees from certain restrictive workplace agreements. In Section 1, the bill prohibits employers from requiring employees to sign agreements that prevent them from disclosing information about unlawful workplace acts, such as harassment or discrimination, as a condition of employment, continued employment, or receipt of employment benefits. The bill defines key terms like "nondisparagement agreement" and "release of a claim or right" and provides some exceptions, such as allowing employers to protect trade secrets and confidential information that do not involve unlawful acts. In Section 2, the bill specifically addresses settlement agreements, making it illegal to include provisions that prevent disclosure of factual information related to sexual assault, sexual harassment, workplace discrimination based on sex, or sex-based harassment. The bill does not prohibit agreements that keep settlement amounts confidential and allows for voluntary negotiated settlements through various complaint resolution processes. The overall intent is to increase transparency and protect employees' rights to speak about workplace misconduct without fear of professional repercussions.

Business and Industry

https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/record/25RS/hb594.html