1. Jody Blanke, Professor Computer Information Systems and Law Mercer University, Atlanta 1

2. Employment Law Primarily state law varies from state to state A good bit of federal law, too mostly discrimination law

3. At-Will Employment Generally, an employee - can be fired for good reason “You’ve been stealing from us. You’re fired!” - can be fired for “no” reason “I don’t like the color of your shoes. You’re fired!” - cannot be fired for bad reason “You’re black. You’re fired!” 3

4. Wrongful Discharge Exceptions Vary greatly by state 1. Public policy exceptions e.g., whistleblower statutes recognized by 43 states 2. Implied contract exceptions e.g., employee handbooks recognized by 37 states

5. Wrongful Discharge Exceptions 3. Implied covenant of good faith and fair dealing exception recognized by 11 states Six states recognize all three exceptions Alaska, California, Idaho, Nevada, Utah, Wyoming Four states recognize none of the exceptions Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Rhode Island 5