OREGON: Gag rule being challenged by Oregon businesses

Oregon’s new “employer gag rule,” which went into effect on January 1, 2010, is being challenged by Oregon business groups who say it violates free speech rights and is preempted by the National Labor Relations Act. The new law prohibits employers from requiring attendance at meetings where the employer’s views about politics, religion or unions will be discussed. Oregon business groups filed a lawsuit in federal court seeking to block the law and Vigilant will keep you updated as the case progresses. In the meantime, we recommend you comply with the new requirements, including posting a notice of employee rights in your workplace. The government will not be creating a model notice, so we recommend you simply post a copy of the law (2009 Or Laws Ch 658). For more information, contact your Vigilant staff representative.