Kevin O’Leary slams new rule that allows employees to ignore their bosses after hours

Right to Disconnect: Australia Leads the Charge

In a groundbreaking move, Australia has become the latest country to pass a “right to disconnect” law, effective August 26th. This legislation empowers employees to disengage from work-related communications outside their designated working hours, protecting their personal time. While hailed by many as a step towards a healthier work-life balance, the law has also drawn criticism from some quarters.

Kevin O’Leary’s Outspoken Opposition

Billionaire investor and “Shark Tank” star Kevin O’Leary has been a vocal critic of the legislation. O’Leary argues that the law impedes the seamless operation of businesses, particularly in urgent situations where employers need to reach their employees after hours. He questions the ability of employers to respond to emergencies promptly if employees are allowed to ignore communications outside of work hours.

Proponents’ Arguments for Boundaries

Supporters of the “right to disconnect” law contend that it is crucial for establishing clear boundaries between professional duties and personal well-being. Australia’s Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations, Murray Watt, emphasizes that employees should not be expected to work unpaid overtime. He highlights the blurring of work and personal life due to advancements in technology, which has left many Australians feeling pressured to remain connected to work even after hours.

The Unfulfilled Promise of California’s Legislation

While the United States does not have a federal “right to disconnect” law, California attempted to introduce similar legislation through Assembly Bill 2751. The bill aimed to provide employees across the state with the right to disconnect from work communications during non-working hours. However, despite its potential impact, the bill was shelved for the 2024 legislative session, temporarily halting the push for a formal “right to disconnect” in California.

A Global Trend Towards Employee Well-being

Australia joins a growing number of countries, including France, Spain, and Belgium, that have implemented “right to disconnect” laws to protect employee well-being. These laws reflect a shift towards acknowledging the importance of maintaining a healthy balance between work and personal life, recognizing the negative impacts of round-the-clock work culture on employee health and productivity.