HS/HCS/HB 441 - This act authorizes employers to respond to written requests for information about current or past employees to new or prospective employers, with immunity from civil liability. The employer is not immune from liability if the disclosure was made with knowledge that it was false or with reckless disregard to whether it was true or false. The employer may send a letter to the new or prospective employer, disclosing the nature and character of the employee's service and stating why the employee was discharged or voluntarily quit. The employer also shall send a copy of such letter to the employee's last known address, and the employee may request a copy of the letter up until one year following the date of the letter. Any employer who violates the disclosure requirements shall be liable for compensatory, but not punitive damages. Any letter issued by the employer cannot be admitted as evidence in an unemployment compensation claim.

This act is similar to SB 101 and SB 155 (1999). A portion of this act is similar to a provision contained in HS/SB 32.
MARGARET TOALSON