Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed an executive directive today describing how her administration will use confidentiality clauses in separation deals.
Whitmer said the purpose is to promote transparency, but it does not entirely bar the use of confidentiality deals. However, it does say the state can’t force an employee to remain silent about the fact that a confidentiality agreement exists.
Deborah Gordon is an employment and labor attorney.
“I understand why from a public policy point of view people want to understand why
severance money is being paid.”
Legislative Republicans say they will continue to try to pry loose details of what they’re calling “hush money” deals with former officials involved with the state’s COVID-19 response.