Garden State Times

Bipartisan legislation introduced by Senator Declan O'Scanlon, representing the 13th district, has successfully passed through the Senate Labor Committee. The bill, identified as S-1688, aims to eliminate non-disparagement clauses from employee contracts and collective bargaining agreements.

Non-disparagement clauses typically restrict employees from making negative remarks about their employers. The proposed legislation seeks to ensure that such provisions are not included in employment contracts.

Senator O'Scanlon emphasized the importance of this legislative move: “Employees should not be forced into agreements that prevent them from expressing concerns about their workplace,” he stated. He further added, “This bill ensures that workers have the ability to speak freely without fear of retaliation, while still maintaining a professional and respectful work environment."

The full text of the bill, S-1688, is available for public review.