Bill > H1779

This bill clarifies the "Personnel Records Statute" by defining "employee" and "personnel record" more precisely, with "personnel record" referring to any written or electronic document kept by an employer that identifies an employee and is used or could affect their employment status, qualifications, promotion, transfer, compensation, or disciplinary actions, and is maintained by the human resources department or a designee. The bill mandates that employers provide employees with an opportunity to review their personnel records within five business days of a written request, and to receive a copy within the same timeframe, with limitations on the frequency of reviews unless negative information is added. If an employee disagrees with information in their record, they can submit a written statement to be included, and if an employer knowingly includes false information, the employee has recourse through various legal and administrative channels. For employers with twenty or more employees, personnel records must be retained for three years after termination and longer if relevant to legal action, and any written personnel policy must be continuously maintained. Violations of these provisions are punishable by a fine of $500 to $2,500, enforced by the attorney general.