Employers Can Submit Comments through September 25, 2017 The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) has published a request for information (RFI) seeking input on its 2016 final rule which adjusted the salary thresholds for executive, administrative, and professional employees to be exempt from federal minimum wage and overtime pay requirements. What Was in the 2016…
Workplace Flexibility and Changes to Daily Routines May Help Keep Employees Focused The warm weather and eagerly anticipated outdoor activities of summer may take a toll on your workers’ concentration. If you’re noticing a lack of focus among your employees during this time of year, consider the following ideas to help keep them motivated: Encourage…
Employers planning to hire interns this summer should keep in mind that the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) has stated that private sector internships are most often considered “employment” subject to the federal Fair Labor Standards Act’s (FLSA) minimum wage and overtime rules. The Test for Unpaid Interns There are some circumstances under which individuals…
With the summer hiring season approaching, employers should begin thinking about how best to hire and manage seasonal employees. Employers who do not dedicate time to these critical steps risk having to face disgruntled employees, unhappy customers, and even legal violations. To learn some best practices for hiring and managing seasonal employees, please watch the video…
The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) has published a final rule adjusting for inflation the civil monetary penalties assessed for violations of a number of federal labor laws. The increases generally apply to civil penalties assessed after January 13, 2017, whose associated violations occurred after November 2, 2015. Key Penalty Increases Penalty increases that may…
“I’m taking a sick day!” This familiar refrain usually is uttered with just cause, but not always. What if there were no sick days? No, we’re not suggesting employees be forced to work when they’re under the weather. Rather, many businesses are adopting a different paradigm when it comes to paid time off (PTO). Under…
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has published a revised version of Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification, designed to reduce errors and enhance form completion using a computer. Beginning Jan. 22, 2017, employers must use only the new version, dated 11/14/2016. Among the changes in the new version, Section 1 asks for “other last…
Snow and slippery conditions during the winter months may make it difficult for your employees to travel to work. Consider the following guidelines that can help your company be prepared when bad weather strikes. When an employee misses work due to bad weather conditions, whether the employee is entitled to be paid for the absence…
The new year is a great time to take stock of your company’s compliance with important federal, state, and local labor law requirements. Keep these resolutions in mind to help start your company off right in 2017: 1. Give your poster wall a thorough check-up. Make sure all of your workplace posters are up-to-date and…
