Q: Can a company withhold severance if you don't agree to not say anything negative about them?
My spouse and several hundred others were recently laid off. In order to receive their severance package they had to sign a contract agreeing they would not say anything "disparaging" about their former employer for one year. This included conversations with current and ex-employees as well as social media. Anyone who failed to sign would forfeit their severance. Can you they do that? "Disparaging" is a broad term and some facts regarding the company can be considered "disparaging".
A: In many states, a severance package is not required. As such, a company may have no obligation to pay out a severance package even if it is the right thing to do. Consult with a Wyoming employment attorney to find out your rights. Good luck.
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