Editorial

PROTECTION FOR ASSESSING FORMER EMPLOYEES

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Most every employer has been in the situation at one time or another of having to talk about former employees when they apply for new jobs. Thanks to lawsuits aplenty, most employers are reluctant to give out much information for fear of being sued for saying anything negative, no matter how warranted.

There may be an answer. Senate Bill 763 is making its way through the Missouri Legislature this year. The bill would protect employers when they provide information about former employees concerning duration of employment, job description, pay level, evaluations and reasons for termination. Employers also would be protected when they provide written information regarding references.

This kind of protection is sorely needed to facilitate the hiring of qualified employees. The bill has broad support from business groups. It deserves to get speedy attention in the Legislature.