Can you fire someone on the spot for not signing a noncompete?

Answer 1

If an employer utilizes a non-compete clause, most employers will not even offer employment if a non-compete clause is not signed beforehand. However, if the employer wants to establish a non-compete clause with current employees after the fact, then it depends on what state you live in and what your employment contract contains. For instance, in an employment-at-will state, an employer can terminate your employment for no reason at all (except if protected under Federal Laws such as discriminatory practices or retaliation to whistleblowing); in this case, yes, your employment could be terminated if you don't sign. If you are in a right-to-employment state or operate under an employment contract, then review your contract to determine if your employer can terminate employment if you do not sign.