Can an employer tell you that you may not meet with your significant other while on a business trip?
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Can an employer tell you that you may not meet with your significant other while on a business trip?
My employer recently gave me a written reprimand outlining things I must immediately change. On the list was meeting with my girlfriend on business trips. I would understand this if we were using company resources but when we met I paid for food, lodging, travel expenses, etc.
Asked on March 25, 2011 under Employment Labor Law, Ohio
Answers:
M.D., Member, California and New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 13 years ago | Contributor
Yes, your employer can require this. The fact is that in most states, OH included, employment is what is known as "at will". Accordingly, an employee can work for an employer or not, their choice. And in turn, an employer can hire or fire an employee for any reason or no reason whatsoever, as well has increase/decrease salary/hours, promote/demote, etc as they see fit. Including who they may or may not see on a business trip - even on the employees own time.
The exceptions to the above would be if there is a stated company policy contrary to the way in which your situation is being handled, or there is a union/employment agreement that does not allow for such action, or this situation has arisen due to some type of discrimination.
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