MCASA in the News: Signed into Law: Disclosing Sexual Harassment in the Workplace Act of 2018

May 16th, 2018

An article in Maryland Matters highlights the Disclosing Sexual Harassment in the Workplace Act of 2018, that was signed into law on Tuesday, May 16.

This bill, sponsored by Del. Kriselda Valderrama and Senator Craig Zucker, prohibits companies from requiring an employee to waive their sexual harassment rights prior to an incident. Employers who try to mandate such non-disclosures will be responsible for the employee's legal fees, and the legislation prohibits any employers' attempts to retaliate against workers for refusing to waive those rights. MCASA’s Executive Director and Counsel, Lisae C. Jordan, Esq., commented on the passing of this crucial piece of legislation:

"This bill is an important part of Maryland's efforts to protect working women and men from sexual harassment and shine light on the Harvey Weinstein's of our state," says Jordan.  

Other important features of this bill include that companies with more than 50 employees are required to report to the state Commission on Civil Rights the number of sexual harassment cases the company has settled, the number of cases containing non-disclosure agreements, and the number of cases that involved repeat offenders over a 10-year span.  

To read more about MCASA's 2018 Legislative Priorities click here

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