Substitute Senate Bill No. 163 Summary

• Prohibits employers from disciplining or discharging employees for exercising First Amendment rights or Connecticut constitutional rights regarding speech and conscience, provided the activity does not substantially interfere with job performance or working relationships.

• Prohibits employers from requiring employees to attend meetings or listen to communications where the primary purpose is conveying the employer's opinion on religious or political matters, with violations subject to liability for lost wages, costs, and attorney's fees.

• Allows employers to communicate information required by law, information necessary for job duties, and allows higher education institutions to include such speech in coursework and academic programs without restriction.

• Exempts casual, non-mandatory conversations between employees and employer representatives from the prohibitions.

• Provides exemption for religious corporations, entities, associations, and educational institutions exempt under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act to communicate on religious matters to employees performing work connected with the organization's religious activities.

• Effective July 1, 2022.