Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964: Federal law that prohibits employment discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, and national origin. Must ensure the reprimand is not discriminatory in nature.
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): Federal law protecting individuals with disabilities from discrimination in the workplace. Consider if negligence is related to any disability accommodations.
Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA): Federal law protecting workers 40 and older from age discrimination. Ensure reprimand is not age-discriminatory.
National Labor Relations Act (NLRA): Federal law protecting employees' rights to organize and engage in collective bargaining. Consider if employee is union-protected.
State Labor Codes: Specific state-level employment laws that may affect disciplinary procedures and documentation requirements.
State Workplace Safety Regulations: State-specific safety requirements that may be relevant if negligence involves safety violations.
State Documentation Requirements: State-specific rules regarding how disciplinary actions must be documented and maintained in personnel files.
Company Disciplinary Procedures: Internal company policies and procedures for handling employee disciplinary actions and progressive discipline.
Collective Bargaining Agreements: Any applicable union agreements that may affect the disciplinary process and employee rights.
Employee Handbook Provisions: Company-specific policies and procedures outlined in the employee handbook regarding conduct and discipline.
Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA): Federal law requiring proper record-keeping of employment actions and documentation.
OSHA Requirements: Federal safety regulations and reporting requirements if negligence involves workplace safety issues.
Progressive Discipline Policy: Company's system of escalating disciplinary actions and documentation of previous incidents.
Due Process Considerations: Employee's right to respond to allegations and appeal disciplinary actions, including documentation of this process.
