Bill > HB623

This bill amends existing Kentucky law to provide new protections for employees who are victims of crimes. It defines "crime," "immediate family," and "victim" for the purposes of these protections. Employers are now prohibited from firing or retaliating against an employee who is a victim of a crime for taking leave to attend court proceedings or other legal or investigative matters related to the prosecution of that crime. Employees are required to give their employers reasonable notice of their need for leave, providing documentation of scheduled hearings or meetings, unless it's not practicable, in which case they must provide documentation within two business days of returning to work. If an employee follows these notice requirements, an employer cannot deny them leave. Employees can use their accrued paid leave, such as vacation or sick time, for this purpose, and employers have discretion on whether to pay for leave if the employee has no accrued paid time. Employers must also maintain the confidentiality of information related to an employee's leave request. Violations of these provisions, including improper discharge, discrimination, retaliation, or failure to maintain confidentiality, can result in a civil lawsuit for damages and attorney fees, and employers who violate the law will face civil penalties of $100 to $1,000 per offense, with each day an employer fails to grant required leave constituting a separate offense.

Business and Industry

https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/record/26RS/hb623.html