COLUMBUS, Ohio — Ohio Senate Bill 339, introduced on Dec. 4, 2024, seeks to ban agreements restricting workers from pursuing new jobs or operating businesses after leaving their employers. The bipartisan bill, sponsored by Sen. Louis Blessing (R) and Sen. William DeMora (D), aims to protect workers’ rights and promote job mobility.
The proposed legislation would prohibit employers from enforcing noncompete clauses, penalizing workers for ending employment, or demanding reimbursement for training or orientation costs. It also ensures that employment disputes involving Ohio workers are adjudicated under Ohio law within the state.
If passed, workers would have the right to sue employers for violations and seek damages, while state officials could investigate complaints and take action on behalf of workers.
Senate Bill 339 is currently in its early stages. Lawmakers emphasize its potential to modernize employment practices and safeguard Ohio workers’ opportunities.