Key Takeaways

  • At-will employment: Yes.
  • Public policy exception: Recognized.
  • Implied contract exception: Recognized.
  • Filing deadline: 180 days for DWS complaints; 300 days for EEOC (dual filing).
At-Will Employment doctrine
Yes Public policy exception
Yes Implied contract exception
No Good faith exception

At-Will Employment in Wyoming

Wyoming is an at-will employment state. Employers can terminate employees for any lawful reason or no reason at all.

Recognized Exceptions

  • Public policy (limited)
  • Implied contract
  • Statutory protections

Protected Classes

In addition to federal protections, Wyoming prohibits employment discrimination based on:

  • Race
  • Color
  • Religion
  • Sex
  • National origin
  • Ancestry
  • Age (40+)
  • Disability

Whistleblower Protections

Limited state-level protections. Federal whistleblower statutes apply.

Filing a Claim

  • Filing deadline180 days for DWS complaints; 300 days for EEOC (dual filing)
  • State agencyWyoming Department of Workforce Services – Labor Standards

Back pay, reinstatement, and compensatory damages.

Wyoming Department of Workforce Services – Labor Standards website

Related Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the Wyoming Fair Employment Practices Act?

    Wyoming's anti-discrimination law applies to employers with 2 or more employees.

  • Does Wyoming protect sexual orientation or gender identity?

    No. Wyoming does not include sexual orientation or gender identity as protected classes.

  • Does Wyoming recognize implied contract exceptions?

    Yes. Wyoming courts have recognized that employer handbook provisions can create implied contracts.

  • How do I file a complaint in Wyoming?

    File with the Wyoming Department of Workforce Services within 180 days, or with the EEOC within 300 days.

Sources