An Act To Amend Title 19 Of The Delaware Code Relating To An Employee's Right To Inspect Personnel Files.
The proposed changes are expected to reinforce employees' rights to access their personal employment information, promoting a culture of openness and accountability within workplaces. This could lead to an enhanced trust relationship between employees and employers, as current and former employees will have the facility to review pertinent documents that may affect their career trajectory. The legislation does not alter the duration an employer must retain personnel files for former employees, thereby ensuring that existing retention policies remain intact.
Senate Bill 229 aims to amend Title 19 of the Delaware Code to grant employees the right to inspect their own personnel files. This legislation specifically extends the right of access to former employees, allowing them to view their personnel files that exist at the time of their request. Such files include various employment-related documents, such as evaluations, position changes, salary history, and records of commendation or discipline. The bill aims to enhance transparency and maintain fair treatment for employees regarding their personal employment records.
Sentiment surrounding SB229 appears to be generally positive, with strong support from employee advocacy groups that view increased access to personnel files as a step towards greater workplace fairness. Advocates argue that providing employees the opportunity to inspect their files can help mitigate potential misunderstandings about employment-related decisions. Conversely, some employers may express concern regarding the administrative burden this could impose, especially when accommodating requests from former employees.
While SB229 promotes employee rights, notable points of contention may arise regarding the potential misuse of the access provisions. Employers may worry about the implications if sensitive information is viewed or if the access leads to disputes over past employment decisions. Additionally, there may be discussions about establishing clear procedures for how requests are made and handled to prevent any disruption in the normal operations of the workplace.