HB5572 - Worker Freedom of Speech Act

• Prohibits employers from discharging, disciplining, or taking adverse employment actions against employees who decline to attend employer-sponsored meetings or receive communications about the employer's religious or political positions.

• Defines "political matters" to include elections, political parties, legislation, regulations, public policy changes, and membership in political or civic organizations; defines "religious matters" as religious belief, affiliation, practice, and organizational membership.

• Establishes a private right of action allowing employees to sue in circuit court within 90 days of an alleged violation, with prevailing employees entitled to reinstatement, back pay, restored benefits, attorney's fees, and other appropriate relief.

• Grants the Department of Labor authority to investigate complaints, subpoena witnesses and documents, prosecute claims on behalf of employees unable to afford litigation, and establish an administrative procedure for adjudicating claims.

• Requires employers to post notice of employee rights under the Act within 30 days of the effective date in locations where employee notices are customarily placed.