A new Oregon law requires employers in the state to implement a written anti-harassment policy and prohibits use of nondisclosure agreements (NDAs) to prevent employees or job applicants from revealing harassment or discrimination under any protected category. Most provisions of the Workplace Fairness Act, signed by the governor on 11 June, will take effect on 1 Oct 2020. The Bureau of Labor and Industries will soon publish model procedures and policies for employers.
Key provisions include the following:
─ The procedures to enable employees to report alleged actions
─ The time limit for employees to file complaints
─ A statement confirming that employees won’t have to sign an NDA or an agreement preventing them from disparaging the employer, and an explanation of the terms used and of the procedures for revoking an NDA or nondisparagement agreement
─ The identity of the person and an alternate responsible for receiving reports of prohibited conduct
─ Procedures for employers or employees to document any discriminatory acts or harassment