HB 5339
Prevent public school districts or supervisors from taking adverse action against public school employees for expressing opinions on social media or in public.
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Sign in to take action- Introduced
- Passed House of Delegates
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill protects West Virginia public school employees’ rights to express their opinions on social media and in public without fear of retaliation from their school districts or supervisors. It specifically prohibits school officials from taking adverse action, such as disciplinary measures or job loss, against employees based on their public statements. The bill aims to safeguard academic freedom and ensure employees can engage in public discourse without professional repercussions. It clarifies that accusations of slander or libel should not be handled through disciplinary action.
Key provisions
- Prohibits public school districts and supervisors from taking adverse action against employees.
- Specifically covers opinions expressed on social media.
- Protects employees from retaliation for expressing public opinions.
- States that slander or libel accusations should not trigger disciplinary action.
Who is affected
- Public school employees
- Public school districts
- School supervisors
Notable changes
- Creates a new section in the West Virginia Code to address employee protections.
- Explicitly prohibits retaliation for social media opinions.
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