Can an employee be fired for filing a complaint?

In Massachusetts, it is illegal for an employee to be fired as retaliation for filing a formal complaint or grievance. An employee should not fear retaliation for exercising their right to report harassment, discrimination, or other unlawful activities that occur at their workplace. This protection extends to filing a complaint or participating in an investigation, even if the complaint is not ultimately successful. Under section 149 of the Massachusetts General Laws, an employer cannot take any retaliatory action against an employee for filing a complaint. This protection is extended to employees even if the complaint or investigation is not successful. If an employee believes that they were wrongfully fired, they can file a charge of retaliation with the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination. It is important to note, however, that employers are still allowed to terminate an employee for other reasons, and simply filing a complaint does not guarantee that an employee cannot be fired. Overall, an employee in Massachusetts cannot be fired for filing a complaint or participating in an investigation. If an employee believes they have been wrongfully fired in retaliation for filing a complaint, they can file a charge of retaliation with the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination. It is important to remember, however, that not all termination decisions are unlawful.

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Can an employee be fired for filing a complaint?

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