loader
Page is loading...
Print Logo Logo
generic_insight_detail

An Annual Ritual: Massachusetts Non-Compete Legislation

Bill Nolan

William A. Nolan

Partner
Columbus Managing Partner

We wrote last year about significant legislative efforts to ban non-competes in Massachusetts. Proponents of such a ban, including Governor Patrick, contend that Massachusetts suffers a brain drain in the high-technology field because talent flees to California, where as many readers will know, non-competes are virtually banned.

In other words, a tech whiz would rather work in California where she may move freely from company to company rather than being limited by a non-compete. Certain high-tech interests in Massachusetts support a ban, whereas most traditional industry has tended to oppose it. There was substantial legislative activity last year, ultimately resulting in no action at all.

It’s back.

Recently, a legislative committee heard testimony on five different bills related to non-competes, including virtual outright bans. While non-compete laws vary significantly from state to state, very few states outside of California ban them outright. To have such a ban in Massachusetts, our 14th most populous state, would be significant. Even if you are not in Massachusetts, if you might possibly “be competed with” there, these developments can affect your business even if your contracts specify your own state’s law. An outright ban seems unlikely, but there is talk of some sort of a compromise version that may come to pass.

We will continue to monitor this development at BT Currents. Few employment issues are higher stakes if a key employee is looking to move to a competitor.


RELATED ARTICLES

No Right, Just Rules: Court Lacks Jurisdiction Over Steakhouse Managers’ Claims

October 3, 2019 | Fair Labor Standards Act, Labor and Employment

Does Your Non-Compete Agreement Survive Under Massachusetts’ New Non-Compete Law?

August 14, 2018 | Non-competes and Trade Secrets, Labor and Employment

Asking: “How much do you currently make?” in 2018?

December 29, 2017 | EEOC, Employment Lessons, Labor and Employment

Subscribe

Do you want to receive more valuable insights directly in your inbox? Visit our subscription center and let us know what you're interested in learning more about.

View Subscription Center
Trending Connect
We use cookies on this site to enhance your user experience. By clicking any link on this page you are giving your consent for us to use cookies.