HD 279 Massachusetts House · 194th Legislature (2025-2026)

An Act relative to employee references

This bill (HD 279) grants employers absolute immunity from civil lawsuits when sharing specific employee information with prospective employers. Employers may disclose details like employment dates, pay level, job duties, wage history, written evaluations, and separation reasons (voluntary/involuntary) without legal liability. The law applies to all disclosures made after its effective date and directly affects current and former employers providing references. It does not restrict what information can be shared, only shields employers from lawsuits related to such disclosures.
Bill status Introduction 0 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor