Q: Is it unlawful to keep a bartender as an employee in a restaurant without providing them with any shifts/hours?
I am a bartender, however, my employer has not given me any shifts this week even though I need it. I have seen the employer do this multiple times before as a way to fire /let go of employees that she does not want / need anymore, even if they have not done anything wrong. I have been an employee there for over a year and a half working 1-2 nights a week as a second job (it was 2 then she dropped it down to 1. Now I guess it's 0). If it is unlawful, could you please provide me with proof that it is unlawful.
A: Generally speaking, Tennessee is an employment-at-will state. That means that an employer can change your hours, demote you or terminate you for any reason that is not illegal or protected by contract. Examples of illegal reasons are age, race, sex or religion discrimination, whistleblowing, termination for filing a workers' compensation claim, violations of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) or more. If you have a contract or feel that you were discriminated against for an illegal reason, then I suggest that you consult with a local employment law attorney.
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