Microsoft employees who reach settlements with the company over complaints of workplace misconduct will no longer be required to enter into nondisclosure agreements, according to a change in company policy.
Employees who have agreed to paid settlements or separation agreements with the company will no longer be bound to confidentiality agreements about complaints they’ve made regarding discrimination, harassment, retaliation, or sexual assault, among others, according to the policy implemented on Wednesday. The move aligns with a recent state law passed in Washington, where Microsoft’s headquarters are located, that prohibits businesses from forcing workers into nondisclosure agreements when discussing allegations of discrimination.
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“Separate from employee agreements, there have been times when Microsoft resolved disputes with employees or provided separation benefits through agreements that had typically included confidentiality provisions,” the policy said. “Microsoft has heard feedback that we can further strengthen our workplace culture and encourage employees to come forward with workplace concerns by addressing these nondisclosure clauses.”
It is unclear whether the policy will nullify the company’s existing agreements.
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Microsoft has come under scrutiny for how it handles allegations of gender discrimination and sexual harassment, with executives approving an investigation into its policies on reporting. The company “may be facing a culture of systemic sexual harassment, putting at risk the company’s ability to attract and retain talent,” investors said in a proposed resolution last year.
The policy applies to any alleged misconduct reported by employees, with the company emphasizing its commitment to provide space “to discuss or share terms and conditions of employment, or concerns of possible misconduct.”
