This new statute/policy is really fucked. I work for a local government agency in the US. We have a union.
Last week we just found out a new statute/policy was going into full enforcement. It basically states that no employee can vent, talk down about or complain about their working conditions, supervisors, or the city in any way, regardless if whether they are on the clock or not.
Say if I was at home, on my day off, and I go onto Facebook and complain (never done that but I know some folks that do) about my employer not approving sick leave or vacation time and my boss, or someone that also works for my employer see that, all they have to do is file a complaint to HR and boom, investigation time.
The union has fought this thing tooth and nail. What was going to be a fireable offense is now a suspension and write up.
This goes for venting or complaining to other coworkers or really, anyone in general. A coworker can simply file a complaint against you simply because they were having a bad day. BAMM! You will immediately be under investigation.
It's not enough that it's so hard to find workers and keep them, now my employer is actively seeking to punish those that remain, for simply venting about something at work.
This just shows you how employment laws in the US only protects employers and are actively against the employees.
Edit. I'll be deleting this post soon as it could get me into trouble. Believe it or not, this post would be a prime example of inciting an investigation.
Edit: wow. This post has gotten a ton of traction and decided to leave it up. I also wanted to post a sorta update. Tomorrow I'll be attending a union meeting and the subject of this new policy will be talked upon. I am hoping to find out more and ask questions. I have a ton of questions! I'll post an update tomorrow afternoon.