Tennessee: Employers Must Implement an Anti-Bullying Policy IMMEDIATELY
APPLIES TO All Employers with TN Employees |
EFFECTIVE April 23, 2019 |
QUESTIONS? Contact HR On-Call |
HB 856 amended the Healthy Workplace Act to allow private employers to shield themselves from abusive conduct claims. Specifically, if an employer adopts the model Abusive Conduct Prevention Policy, then the employer is immune from suit for any employee’s abusive conduct that results in negligent or intentional infliction of mental anguish. Employers should note that this immunity does not change the personal liability of an employee for any abusive conduct in the workplace.
Employers should immediately implement the model policy or equivalent to avoid potential exposure. However, note that this immunity only applies to abusive conduct claims made under Tennessee law; it does not shield employers from claims made pursuant to federal law.
Action Items
- Review the text of the bill here.
- Have employee handbooks and anti-bullying policies updated immediately.
- Subscribers can call our HR On-Call Hotline at (888) 378-2456 for further assistance.
Disclaimer: This document is designed to provide general information and guidance concerning employment-related issues. It is presented with the understanding that ManagEase is not engaged in rendering any legal opinions. If a legal opinion is needed, please contact the services of your own legal adviser.
© 2019 ManagEase