Venable partner Mike Volpe was quoted in a November 19, 2013 Law360 article about laws prohibiting bullying in the workplace which are being considered in several states. Since 2003, 25 states have proposed such legislation and 11 states currently have laws on the books. Proponents say such laws are more likely in the future and long overdue while opponents argue they will lead to frivolous suits over trivial matters and disagreements.
“From an employer's perspective, I think there needs to be more definition on what may or may not be actionable and what an employer's exposure would be to legal liability,” said Volpe. Regardless of whether workplace bullying laws are passed, Volpe said employers need to take steps to address the problem. He recommended employers review current policies and practices to ensure inappropriate behavior is prohibited. “Whether or not a state chooses to amend its law or enact a new law that addresses these issues, employers should be preventing untoward and aggressive behavior in the workplace, including bullying,” he added.
“From an employer's perspective, I think there needs to be more definition on what may or may not be actionable and what an employer's exposure would be to legal liability,” said Volpe. Regardless of whether workplace bullying laws are passed, Volpe said employers need to take steps to address the problem. He recommended employers review current policies and practices to ensure inappropriate behavior is prohibited. “Whether or not a state chooses to amend its law or enact a new law that addresses these issues, employers should be preventing untoward and aggressive behavior in the workplace, including bullying,” he added.