Can an employer mandate that you research ways to get better at you job on your own time?

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Can an employer mandate that you research ways to get better at you job on your own time?

My employer used to “suggest” that we do anything on our own time to improve ourselves, now they’re mandating it. Is this legal? They aren’t paying us for this, and they’re being intimidating about it.

Asked on July 22, 2012 under Employment Labor Law, Washington

Answers:

MD, Member, California Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney

Answered 11 years ago | Contributor

You need to understand that improving at job performance will depend on the level of employment and type of employment.  Usuaully, if you work for a law firm for example, the law firm will make available or pay for continuing education seminars and programs.  If your job is now requiring additional education at your cost, you need to speak with the state's department of labor, the human rights commission and the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. 


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