This bill expands existing prohibitions on employers regarding their requirements for employees to attend or engage in communications related to political matters. It amends the definition of "political matters" to include a broader range of topics, such as elections, legislation, and the decision to join or support various political and civic organizations. The bill also clarifies that employees cannot be compelled to participate in employer-sponsored meetings or communications that address these political matters, enhancing protections for workers' rights to focus on their job duties without political pressure from their employers.

Additionally, the bill establishes that aggrieved employees can enforce their rights through civil action in Superior Court, with the potential for various forms of relief, including injunctive relief, reinstatement, lost wages, and punitive damages for violations. Employers are mandated to post notices informing employees of their rights under this legislation in visible locations within the workplace. The act is set to take effect 90 days after its enactment.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 34:19-9, 34:19-13