This bill expands existing prohibitions on employers regarding the 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, political parties, legislation, and the decision to join or support various organizations. The bill also clarifies that employers cannot mandate attendance at employer-sponsored meetings or communications that discuss these political matters, enhancing protections for employees' rights to focus on their job duties without coercion.
Additionally, the bill stipulates that any aggrieved employee can enforce their rights through a civil action in Superior Court within ninety days of the alleged violation. The court may provide various forms of relief, including injunctive relief, reinstatement, lost wages, and punitive damages for violations. Employers are also required to post a notice of employee rights related to this legislation in a conspicuous location. The act is set to take effect 90 days after its enactment.
Statutes affected: Introduced: 34:19-9, 34:19-13