Can my boss cut pay, hours and benefits because he wants to give me more time to search for another job?

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Can my boss cut pay, hours and benefits because he wants to give me more time to search for another job?

I work as a janitorial supervisor. Recently I gave my boss a heads up that I would be looking for another job. Yesterday he called me in for a meeting. He let me know that starting next week he would be taking me off salary and dropping me down to 27 hours a week, cutting my pay by 50 cents an hour, as well as taking my benefits. When I asked him why he stated it was to give me more time to find another job. This just does not seem right. Is this legal; do I have any recourse?

Asked on June 28, 2011 under Employment Labor Law, Illinois

Answers:

M.D., Member, California and New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney

Answered 12 years ago | Contributor

The majority of employment arrangements are "at will".  This means that an employee can work for an employer or not, their choice.  Conversely, an employer can hire/fire an employee for any reason or no reason, with or without notice.  The foregoing is true unless: 1) there is a union agreement or employment contract to the contrary; 2) company policy that does not allow for this; or 3) if discrimination was a factor in such action.  Absent that, your employer did no violate any law.


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