employment; workplace communications; exclusions

HB 2670 prohibits Arizona employers (including state agencies) from threatening or punishing employees for declining to attend meetings or participate in communications about religious beliefs or political matters, such as elections or political parties. Employees who face retaliation can file a civil lawsuit within 120 days to seek reinstatement, back pay, benefits, and attorney fees. The law does not apply to communications required by law, necessary for job duties, or part of academic programs at colleges, nor does it cover religious organizations exempt under federal law. It requires employers to post a notice of these rights within 30 days of the law taking effect.