Assembly Bill 512 aims to enhance employee rights regarding compensation information by prohibiting employers from soliciting or relying on a prospective employee's current or prior compensation when making employment decisions. Specifically, the bill makes it unlawful for employers to ask for this information before extending a job offer, to set criteria based on prior compensation, or to discriminate against applicants for exercising their rights related to compensation disclosure. Additionally, the bill repeals existing provisions that allowed employers to solicit such information, thereby strengthening protections for job seekers.

The bill also establishes protections for current employees, allowing them to freely discuss their compensation and that of their colleagues without fear of retaliation. Employers are prohibited from discharging or discriminating against employees for disclosing or inquiring about compensation. To enforce these rights, the bill allows individuals to file complaints with the Department of Workforce Development or pursue civil actions in circuit court, with specified limits on damages based on the size of the employer. Employers are required to post notices informing employees and prospective employees of their rights under this new law, with penalties for non-compliance.