In response to the #MeToo movement, the Vermont Legislature recently passed House Bill 707 creating an obligation for all Vermont employers, employment agencies and labor organizations to provide a workplace free from sexual harassment. The law contains a number of specific requirements, including:
- A prohibition on employment agreements that prevent employees from reporting sexual harassment in the workplace;
- A prohibition on employment agreements that prevent employees from waiving their rights to bring a sexual harassment claim;
- Annual education and training programs for all employees about sexual harassment; and
- Distribution of the company’s policy against sexual harassment to all employees.
Under the new law, the Attorney General’s office and the Vermont Human Rights Commission are granted the authority to conduct workplace audits, including record reviews and other inspection rights, to ensure compliance.
The law goes into effect July 1, 2018.
Additional information on the law can be found here.
If you have any questions, please email LaborCompliance@castandcrew.com.
—
The proceeding information is provided for informational purposes only, should not be construed as or relied upon as legal advice and is subject to change without notice. If you have questions concerning particular situations, specific payroll administration or labor relations issues, please contact your counsel.
