Some States and Cities Help Laid Off Workers Reclaim Former Jobs

In several states and cities, “recall” ordinances now require certain employers to offer new openings to the workers they laid off before hiring from outside.

How recall rights work

Covered employers must notify qualified former employees of open positions (usually in order of seniority) and give them a window to accept. The rules vary widely in which industries they cover and how long the rights last.

Know your window

Recall rights expire, and missed notices are a common dispute. Former employees should keep contact details current with prior employers and document every communication. If a position was filled without notice, an employment attorney can assess whether the ordinance was violated and what remedies apply.