Can California employers require employees to submit written notification/disclosure that they have a second job?
California is very protective of employees who engage in “lawful conduct,” and it is illegal to discriminate against employees or applicants on the basis of such conduct that they engage in during nonworking hours away from your premises. (See California Labor Code sections 96(k), 98.6).
Lawful Conduct
Having a second job, or “moonlighting,” is one example of such lawful conduct. Requiring written notification as noted above could be violative of their privacy and have a chilling effect on the employee seeking a second job.
This right to have a second job does not, however, prevent an employer from having a rule that employees cannot engage in conduct that actually is in direct conflict with your essential interests if the conduct would disrupt your operation.
Right to Discipline
Additionally, an employer has the right to discipline an employee who has performance/attendance issues due to working a second job. For example, if an employee is consistently late due to working another job, that may be addressed.
Also, if an employee is exhausted from the long hours at the second job, or can’t work scheduled time, that too is subject to discipline. The discipline would not be for having a second job, but for the primary job performance/attendance.
If an employer decides to terminate an employee with a second job, it is wise to consult with an attorney to guide the employer through that decision to avoid an appearance that the employer is motivated by the employee’s lawful moonlighting.
Column based on questions asked by callers on the Labor Law Helpline, a service to California Chamber of Commerce preferred and executive members. For expert explanations of labor laws and Cal/OSHA regulations, not legal counsel for specific situations, call (800) 348-2262 or submit your question at www.hrcalifornia.com.
