Employer Wage Discussion Rights

Summary

In the United States, employees have the right to discuss wages and working conditions under the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA). Employers discouraging these discussions, even without a formal policy, may be violating the NLRA. If you believe your rights are being infringed, consider consulting a labor attorney or contacting the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) for guidance.

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My employer discouraged staff from discussing pay via email, saying “please remember our individual pay rates should be confidential and not discussed inside or outside the department”
****, are you based in the United States? If so, under the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA), employees have the right to discuss wages and working conditions with each other. This right is protected as part of "concerted activities" for mutual aid and protection.
Yes, I’m from the US
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****, your employer's actions may indeed violate the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA), which protects your right to discuss wages with your colleagues. It's advisable to consider discussing this with a labor attorney or contacting the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) for further guidance.
Would you like more information on how to contact the NLRB or on finding a labor attorney?
No, but is it illegal to discourage discussion of wages even if it’s not a direct policy/rule?
Yes, it can be illegal to discourage wage discussions, even if it's not a formal policy. The National Labor Relations Act (NLRA) protects employees' rights to discuss wages and working conditions. Discouraging such discussions can be seen as a violation of these rights.
Would you like more information on how to file a complaint with the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB)?