Does this sort of information get revealed in background checks for previous places of employment or is that a privacy thing?
Also is it really necessary for a state to dictate such things? Is it too much pressure for someone to respectfully decline to answer such a question and practice some negotiation skills? What exactly is the state's interest in this sort of thing precisely?
No it doesn't come back in a background check. The only thing that comes back is your title and employment dates.
That is actually how I've avoided all those annoying salary negotiations. Lie about how much I make, let them offer me slightly above that and gladly accept.
Having it stipulated by the state means that people who have less leverage to decline to answer such questions have the power of the state behind them.
Also is it really necessary for a state to dictate such things? Is it too much pressure for someone to respectfully decline to answer such a question and practice some negotiation skills? What exactly is the state's interest in this sort of thing precisely?