Originally Posted by rickair7777

Employment History: Unless limited by state law, they can go back as far as they want and contact previous employers. Past employers can tell them anything they like, even if it's something that would NOT be reported in PRIA. A phone discussion between two managers is not PRIA, and is not limited by PRIA. This assumes the previous employer is willing to say anything at all, at risk of liability. Large companies will usually only verify dates of employment, but small operators may be willing to spill their guts, good or bad. I personally (having been in that position) would give a glowing recommendation for a good employee, but in the case of a bad apple would simply say that I'm not able to give a recomendation and would not provide details. I could get in trouble for trash-talking someone (even though it would be the truth) but there's no law or tort precedent that could get me in trouble for saying nothing. The guy on the other end could read between the lines.