Preparing For A Season of Summer and Volunteer Staff
Don’t cut corners and skip employee background screening for seasonal and summer employees, even if you need to urgently fill a position.
Learn MoreCategory: Federal Law Updates
Employee Handbooks vs. Policies
What Is The Difference Between Employee Handbooks And Policies And Procedures Manuals? An employee handbook is written with employees as the intended audience. It is most often written using a straightforward layout for easy referencing of company policies and procedures and is a vehicle for familiarizing employees with basic company policies and benefit programs, as […]
Learn MoreEmployers Prepare for End of COVID-19 Emergency Status
As employers have anticipated the May 2023 end of the two federal COVID-19 emergency orders, they have some important new clarity on test and vaccine coverage and on how to unwind COVID-19–era extended deadlines, including for COBRA continuing healthcare coverage elections.
Learn MoreDepartment of Labor Guidance on Telework and FMLA
DOL Eligibility Rules Under FMLA When Employees Telework The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) has published a Field Assistance Bulletin (FAB) that includes guidance on how to apply eligibility rules under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) when employees telework or work away from an employer’s facility. FABs provide guidance to DOL Wage and […]
Learn MoreAI in HR Causes New Employer Concerns
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is causing new concern for Employers. Learn more about benefits and dangers for employers for AI in human resources.
Learn MorePodcast: The Dirty Details of ACA Reporting – Your Questions Answered
In this podcast episode, Chris Cooley talks in detail about ACA reporting, including common misconceptions, affordability details, and penalties.
Learn MoreTips for Training Managers on FMLA Compliance
How Recognize and Address Leave Requests Under the Family Medical Leave Act What is the Family and Medical Leave Act? The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) is a federal law providing eligible employees of covered employers with unpaid, job-protected leave for specified family and medical reasons. In general, eligible employees may take up to […]
Learn MoreDHS Extends Form I-9 Flexibilities Until July 31, 2023
Thanks to COVID-19-related disruptions, DHS has extended Form 1-9 Flexibilities, which include remote review and expired documents, until July 31, 2023.
Learn MoreUpdated EEOC Workplace Poster October 2022
The EEOC has released a new poster called “Know Your Rights”—an update and replacement for the “EEO is the Law” poster. Learn more about the updates within the poster.
Learn MoreDOL Proposes New Independent Contractor Classification Rule
The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) announced a proposed rule to rescind and replace its 2021 independent contractor classification rule under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA).
Learn MoreContinue Using Current Form I-9 Until Further Notice
On Oct. 11, 2022, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) published instructions for employers to continue using the Employment EligibilityVerification form (Form I-9) when hiring new employees until a new version of the form is published.
Learn MoreEmployers Must Show Pay Transparency In California Beginning 2023
California’s new pay transparency law requires employers with 15 or more employees to disclose pay scale information in all job postings and to current employees upon request. This law will cover approximately 200,000 employers, according to Bloomberg Law.
Learn More2023 To Bring Higher Minimum Wages
Minimum wages in seven states will rise in January 2023 based on the 8.3 percent increase in inflation over the past year, as reported Sept. 13 by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Learn MoreForm I-9: Don’t Make These Mistakes
Common Form I-9 Mistakes to Avoid Despite employers’ best efforts, complying with Form I-9 requirements can be difficult. Unfortunately, many employers leave their organizations’ Form I-9 operations to untrained staff or fail to dedicate sufficient time and resources to the process, resulting in numerous errors and untimely completion of Form I-9 tasks. Even small errors […]
Learn MoreAre HR Compliance Requirements Increasing For Your Business? Work Smarter.
According to Ernst & Young’s Global Payroll Survey, keeping up with regulatory compliance changes was identified as the second-highest compliance challenge. But as your business grows, those compliance concerns you have today don’t go away — most often, they will multiply. Some of the biggest areas employers lose sight of as they grow include compliance with benefits […]
Learn MoreA Checklist for Completing Form 1-9
Download This Form I-9 Checklist Federal law requires employers to hire only individuals who may legally work in the United States—either U.S. citizens or authorized foreign nationals. To comply with the law, employers must verify the identity and employment authorization of each individual they hire by completing and retaining the Employment Eligibility Verification form (Form […]
Learn MoreDHS Proposes Permanent Rule Allowing Remote Verification of Form I-9 Documents
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement have recently proposed a permanent rule to allow employers to remotely review the Employment Eligibility Verification form (Form I-9) identity and employment authorization documents when hiring, reverifying or rehiring employees. In light of technological advances and new work arrangements—like remote work—the DHS is exploring […]
Learn MoreKnow The Difference Between The Multi-jurisdictional (MJD) And Other Searches?
Do I Really Need To Pay For A County Or State-level Criminal Search? Though a multi-jurisdictional search (MJD) sounds impressive, it is not as thorough as it seems. This search is often represented as being a comprehensive search. The fact is, the multi-jurisdictional database search does have limitations, the most important of which is incomplete data (not all […]
Learn MoreACA Pay or Play Affordability Percentage Decreased for 2023
On Aug. 1, 2022, the IRS issued Revenue Procedure (Rev. Proc.) 2022-34 to index the contribution percentages in 2023 for determining the affordability of an employer’s plan under the Affordable Care Act (ACA). For plan years beginning in 2023, employer-sponsored coverage will be considered affordable if the employee’s required contribution for self-only coverage does not exceed: 9.12% […]
Learn MoreDHS Proposed Rule Would Amend Section 1557 Sex Discrimination Regulations
On July 25, 2022, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) issued a proposed rule that would revise existing regulations for the Section 1557 nondiscrimination protections under the Affordable Care Act (ACA). The proposed rule is intended to solidify protections against discrimination on the basis of sex, including sexual orientation and gender identity. About the ACA […]
Learn MoreThings to Know When Hiring In Other States
Hiring Across State Lines Means Multi-State Compliance These days as an employer, hiring looks different. The world is your oyster, meaning the recruitment pool is nationwide. We are no longer limited by location to find the talent that can help our business to become more successful. However, hiring in a post-pandemic world has many pros […]
Learn MoreNew Updates To EEOC Covid Workplace Policies
As of July 12, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) updated its Technical Assistance Questions and Answers on COVID-19 testing and vaccine in the workplace. Employers now need to show that mandatory COVID-19 testing of employees is job-related and consistent with business necessity, as defined by the ADA. In determining whether a mandatory testing measure meets […]
Learn MoreCOBRA Lawsuits Have Increased – Reach Out For COBRA Assistance!
Employers are seeing an increase in lawsuits from former employees alleging deficient Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA) election notices. These lawsuits are generally class actions and can result in significant attorneys’ fee awards for successful ex-employees. Strategies to eliminate this problem can be found here.
Learn MoreForm 5500 Deadline Coming Up In August!
Form 5500 Is Due By Aug. 1, 2022 For Calendar Year Plans. The U.S. Department of Labor’s Employee Benefits Security Administration, the IRS and the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corp. previously announced changes to the Form 5500 Annual Return/Report of Employee Benefit Plan and Form 5500-SF Short Form Annual Return/Report of Employee Benefit Plan, and related instructions, […]
Learn MoreVirtual 1-9 Employment Verification Possible
DHS to Propose Permanent Remote Form I-9 Verification Rule The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) recently announced it plans to issue a proposed rule that would allow employers to verify employee identity and employment eligibility documentation virtually “in certain circumstances or with respect to certain employers” when completing Form I-9 verification requirements. Virtual verification may […]
Learn MoreProposed Overtime Rule Expected in October 2022
In its recent spring regulatory agenda, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) announced its plans to issue a proposed overtime rule in October 2022. According to the agency’s regulatory agenda, this proposed rule is expected to address how to implement the exemption of executive, administrative and professional employees from the Fair Labor Standards Act’s (FLSA) […]
Learn MoreEmployers See Increasing Numbers of Lawsuits Over Deficient COBRA Notices
Discover the rising class action lawsuits against employers for deficient COBRA election notices with penalties up to $110/day.
Learn MoreDOL Issues Guidance on FMLA and Mental Health Conditions
The Wage and Hour Division of the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) has released new resources on workers’ rights to leave under the federal Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) for mental health conditions. In a press release, the DOL said the publication of the new guidance was in recognition of Mental Health Awareness month. […]
Learn MoreEEOC and DOL Issue Guidance on Artificial Intelligence and ADA Disability Discrimination
On May 12, 2022, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) each issued new technical assistance documents about how employers’ use of artificial intelligence (AI) and other software tools to make employment decisions may result in unlawful disability discrimination under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). EEOC Guidance The EEOC’s […]
Learn MoreMore 2022 Labor Law Changes Prove Employers Should Prioritize Labor Law Posters
Labor law penalties are rising for employers. The hard truth is that the maximum penalty for federal posting violations has risen to over $38,000 since newly announced increases by the Department of Labor and the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission have gone into effect – highlighting the seriousness of posting compliance.
Learn MoreClaim Your Employer WOTC Federal Tax Credit
The Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) is a federal tax credit available to employers who hire members of certain targeted groups. Previously scheduled to sunset at the end of 2020, the Taxpayer Certainty and Disaster Tax Relief Act of 2020 extends the Work Opportunity Tax Credit through the end of 2025.
Learn MoreDOL Announces Public Education Campaign to Promote Workplace Mental Health Support
The Department of Labor’s public education campaign, “Mental Health at Work: What Can I Do?” promotes mental health friendly workplaces with free resources.
Learn MorePodcast: Discussing Senior Living Industry Background Checks In Depth.
In this episode, we talk about background screening in the Senior Living industry. Chris and Kim talk with our guest Suzy Hansmann, Sr. Vice President of Human Resources at Grace Management, Inc. about the importance of using the right process for background checks in the Senior Living industry.
Learn MoreNew Actions Announced to Address Pay Equity
An executive order was announced to be signed by President Joe Biden intended to promote pay equity and transparency for the federal workforce and employees of federal contractors. In addition, the Department of Labor (DOL) issued a new directive clarifying federal contractors’ annual obligation to audit their compensation practices to ensure pay equity.
Learn MoreMore Answers to Updated IRS Tax Credit FAQs
The ARPA suspended the requirement that taxpayers repay any excess advance payments of the premium tax credit for 2020. Highlights of this article: The IRS’ fact sheet addresses FAQs regarding filing individual tax returns that include premium tax credit issues. The FAQs detail how receiving unemployment compensation in 2020 or 2021 affects household income. The […]
Learn MoreUpdated FAQs From IRS For Tax Credits Under FFCRA
The Internal Revenue Service updated its frequently asked questions (FAQs) on tax credits for paid leave under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) for leave prior to April 1, 2021. Initially, the FFCRA qualified covered employers for dollar-to-dollar tax credits for amounts paid to employees who took leave for qualifying reasons. The credits also covered amounts […]
Learn MoreBiden Signs Law Against Forced Arbitration of Sexual Assault and Harassment
With H. R. 4445, President Biden has ended forced arbitration policies for employees with claims of workplace sexual harassment or assault.
Learn MoreFrom The Hill – President Biden Addresses Employee Benefits and the Workplace
Employers Gain Insight With The State Of The Union Address On Tuesday, March 1, President Joe Biden gave the 2022 State of the Union address (SOTU). The SOTU is an annual speech delivered by the president around the beginning of each year. Generally, the speech outlines how the country is doing and signals future initiatives the […]
Learn MoreALERT: March 2022 ACA Deadlines Are Here!
The landmark health care reform legislation enacted in March 2010 was designed to expand the availability of health insurance, reform the regulation of health coverage and restructure its delivery. A key component—and a key cause of confusion—within the ACA is the employer mandate, which requires employers with 50 or more full-time or full-time equivalent (FTE) […]
Learn MoreCOBRA Confusion Continues to Challenge Employers
COBRA rules have changed over the past two years in order to recognize the complications accompanying the COVID-19 pandemic. The resulting confusion can result in penalties, medical claims, litigation, and class-action lawsuits.
Learn MoreDOL to Hire 100 Investigators, Signaling Potential Enforcement Increase
The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) recently announced an initiative to add 100 investigators to its Wage and Hour Division (WHD)—a potential sign to employers that increased enforcement may be on the horizon.
Learn MoreCongress Bans Forced Arbitration and Waivers of Sexual Harassment and Assault Claims
On Feb. 10, 2022, the U.S. Senate passed the Ending Forced Arbitration of Sexual Assault and Sexual Harassment Act (the Act). The U.S. House of Representatives had previously passed the Act, which is now expected to be signed by President Biden. Once signed, the Act will go into effect immediately. Ending Forced Arbitration Act The […]
Learn MoreUpdated: OSHA Vaccination and Testing ETS Effective Date Requirements
Details on the Osha vaccination date requirements can be found here. On Jan. 7, 2022, the U.S. Supreme Court heard an oral argument concerning the validity of the ETS. However, the OSHA vaccine and testing ETS is currently in place and enforceable. As a result, employers are expected to comply with the effective dates of Jan. 10 and Feb. 9, 2022.
Learn MoreCommon Questions About COVID-19 and the ADA
Businesses Should Become Familiar With These Common Questions About COVID-19 and the ADA On Jan. 6, 2022, the Department of Justice (DOJ) issued answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs) about how the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) applies to businesses and other entities under certain circumstances related to the COVID-19 pandemic. The new FAQs mainly […]
Learn MoreBehind the 6th District Court Decision to Approve the OSHA ETS Vaccine Mandate
As the news of the OSHA Vaccine Mandate for Employers spreads, we look for more information. In this article, we discover why the Court’s decision was made and look at the expectations of employers moving into the new deadline for vaccination.
Learn MoreResolution To Repeal Vaccine Mandate Gets Passed By Senate
On Dec. 8, 2021, the Senate voted on and passed a resolution to repeal President Biden’s vaccine mandate for private employers. The resolution passed with a simple majority vote of 52 to 48. The resolution aims to overturn the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) emergency temporary standard (ETS) that requires private employers of 100 or more employees to implement a vaccine or weekly testing policy.
Learn MoreNew Court Decision Blocks Vaccine Mandate for Federal Contractors Nationwide!
On Dec. 7, 2021, a Georgia federal judge blocked the federal contractors mandate nationwide. This new order comes right after a Kentucky federal judge issued a preliminary injunction effectively blocking the implementation and enforcement of President Biden’s COVID-19 vaccine mandate for federal government contractors and subcontractors for Kentucky, Tennessee and Ohio on Nov. 30, 2021. […]
Learn MoreUpdate On State Laws Restricting-19 Vaccine Mandates and Passports
Since COVID-19 vaccines first became available, several states have enacted laws that restrict or ban certain entities from mandating them or requiring proof that an individual has received one (also known as a “vaccine passport”) in order to be allowed entry or access to services.
Learn MoreFinal 2021 Forms For ACA Reporting Released
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) released final 2021 forms for reporting under Internal Revenue Code (Code) Sections 6055 and 6056. 2021 Forms 1094-B and 1095-B are the forms that will be used by providers of minimum essential coverage (MEC), including self-insured plan sponsors that are not applicable large employers (ALEs), to report under Section 6055. 2021 Forms 1094-C and 1095-C are the forms […]
Learn MoreUpdate: The Court Speaks, Maintains Block on Biden Vaccine Mandate
The Latest Update Confirms That President Biden’s ETS Will Remain Blocked On Friday, November 12, 2021, the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals blocked President Joe Biden’s coronavirus vaccine mandate in a ruling. The three-judge panel for the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals in New Orleans affirmed its initial stay order from last week, stating that […]
Learn MorePenalties for the COVID-19 Vaccination and Testing ETS
OSHA can classify the COVID-19 ETS citations as ‘‘willful,’’ allowing it to propose higher penalties with increased deterrent effects.
Learn MoreAttraction and Retention Amid President Biden’s Vaccine Mandates
President Biden recently directed the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to draft a new emergency rule requiring businesses with 100 or more employees to ensure workers are either fully vaccinated or tested for COVID-19 weekly. Read an overview of the impending rule, talent market implications, and employer considerations for employee attraction and retention.
Learn More2021 ACA Violations & Penalties For Employers
Failing to comply with the ACA’s requirements can cause severe consequences for an employer. This ACA Overview (PDF) summarizes the penalties and excise taxes that may be triggered by an ACA violation. Click the document below to enlarge and print.
Learn More2022 ACA Compliance Overview
The Affordable Care Act (ACA) has made a number of significant changes to group health plans since the law was enacted in 2010. Since then, several changes have been made to various ACA requirements that employers and plan sponsors should be aware of. It is important for employers to periodically review their benefit plans in order to maintain compliance with these various requirements.
Learn MoreCal/OSHA Amends Notice and Reporting Requirements for COVID-19
On Oct. 5, 2021, California approved Assembly Bill 654 (AB 654) to amend California’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (Cal/OSHA) COVID-19 notice and reporting regulations. The bill became effective upon adoption on Oct. 5, 2021. The bill requires employers to give notice of COVID-19 outbreaks to: Qualifying individuals or employees exposed to qualifying individuals within one business day; […]
Learn MoreFederal Employers Receive Deadline Of November 22 To Be Vaccinated
Breaking Down The November 22 Deadline By Vaccination October 15, 2021 – President Joe Biden announced, on Sept. 9, that OSHA would issue an ETS requiring covered businesses to mandate that their workers be vaccinated against the coronavirus or undergo weekly testing. Covered employers will also have to give workers paid time off to get […]
Learn MoreSigns That OSHA ETS, Vaccination Mandate Is Moving Forward
As OSHA Submits Draft of COVID-19 Vaccine Mandate ETS As Next Step Recently, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) announced that it submitted a draft of its emergency temporary standard (ETS) for private employers requiring mandatory COVID-19 testing or vaccination to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB). The ETS will require all businesses […]
Learn MoreUpdate On The Extension To Employee Retention Tax Credit (ERTC)
New Guidance on Claiming the Employee Retention Credit Although the Employee Retention Tax Credit (ERTC) is expiring at the end of 2021, there’s still time for eligible businesses to claim the credit, if they haven’t already. The ERTC, also referred to as the Employee Retention Credit (ERC), was created by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security […]
Learn MoreAt-A-Glance Guidance For Employers In Preparation For Biden Vaccine Mandate
President Joe Biden’s latest COVID-19 vaccination and testing mandate is one of the federal government’s most aggressive efforts yet. What’s more, we know it will directly impact many private sector workforces as well as federal employees and contractors. For more on the OSHA Emergency Temporary Standard (ETS) being proposed click HERE. We encourage you to […]
Learn MorePodcast: OSHA Vaccination ETS & Important Guidance For Employers
Steps For Employers To Reduce Risk Prior To The OSHA Vaccination & Testing Mandate On Sept. 9, 2021, President Biden announced that the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is developing an emergency temporary standard (ETS). The new ETS will require private-sector employers with 100 or more employees to ensure their workforce is fully vaccinated […]
Learn MoreGuidance For Employers In Anticipation Of OSHA’s New COVID-19 Vaccination & Testing Requirement
How employers should prepare for OSHA’s COVID-19 vaccine mandate including testing logistics, policies, and refusals.
Learn MoreOSHA Developing Private Sector Emergency Temporary Standard for COVID-19
Important Information OSHA’s ETS for employers with 100 or more employees will be required to: Ensure their employees are fully vaccinated; or require workers who remain unvaccinated to produce a negative test result weekly before coming to work. On Sept. 9, 2021, President Biden announced that the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is developing an emergency […]
Learn MoreEarly Is The New On-Time For ACA Reporting Preparation
It’s not too late to prepare for ACA filing and These Resources Can Help You Prepare for 2022 ACA Reporting. 2021 Affordable Care Act (ACA) Reporting is Due in Early 2022 The IRS has released draft 2021 versions of Forms 1094-C, 1095-C, 1094-B and 1095-B that employers will use in early 2022 to report under Internal Revenue Code Sections 6055 and […]
Learn MoreEEO-1 Deadline Extended Again To October 25, 2021
Employers now have even more extra time to submit equal employment opportunity (EEO-1) workforce data from 2019 and 2020, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) announced on Aug. 18, 2021. The 2019 and 2020 EEO-1 reports were previously due These reports were previously due by Aug. 23, 2021, which was an extension from a previous […]
Learn MoreCOBRA’s ARPA Deadline September 30, 2021
The COBRA premium assistance provided under the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (ARPA) is coming to an end. Learn more about the requirements and deadlines coming on September 30, 2021.
Learn MoreEmployers Deal With “Long-Haul Covid” And How It Affects The Workplace
We’re nearing the end of 2021 and we are beginning to see further effects of COVID-19 in those who have had the virus previously. As people begin to get back to work, we see that some have been affected by the COVID-19 virus with continuing symptoms. The CDC has begun to refer to this condition as having “long-haul covid.” As COVID “long-haulers” re-enter the workplace they may qualify for ADA accommodations.
Learn MoreReceive A Tax Break During The Post- Pandemic Hiring Frenzy
Here’s how you could receive a tax break for hiring unemployed individuals. The Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) is a federal tax credit for hiring applicants from certain target groups who face significant barriers to employment—including individuals unemployed for 27 weeks or longer. With 9.5 million unemployed Americans in June, according to the Bureau of […]
Learn MorePCORI Fees Now Due August 2, 2021 Instead of July 31.
This alert is of interest to all employers that sponsor self-insured group health plans, including Health Reimbursement Arrangements (HRAs). Employers that sponsor self-insured group health plans, including health reimbursement arrangements (HRAs) should keep in mind the upcoming July 31, 2021 deadline for paying fees that fund the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI). As background, the […]
Learn MoreSmall Businesses Should Understand Form 5500
Understanding Form 5500 is important to businesses with retirement plans. Among the many fiduciary responsibilities that must be reported on the Form 5500, plan sponsors must deposit employees’ salary or wage deferrals into their accounts as soon as administratively feasible, but no later than the 15th business day of the month following the month in which […]
Learn MoreAttention Healthcare Employers: OSHA Issues COVID-19 Emergency Temporary Standard for Health Care
OSHA Emergency Temporary Standards (ETS) On June 10, 2021, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) announced its COVID-19 Emergency Temporary Standards (ETS). The ETS was developed to protect health care and health care support service workers from occupational exposure to COVID-19 in settings where people with COVID-19 are reasonably expected to be present. The […]
Learn MoreHiring After COVID-19 Shutdown Still Remains A Challenge
The Status Of Unemployment Benefits Is Changing The Hiring Forecast There continues to be an increase in the number of states planning to end enhanced unemployment benefits, which were made available due to the pandemic. So where does this all stand? We hope to shed some light on the current state of hiring and unemployment […]
Learn MoreMore IRS Guidance on American Rescue Plan’s COBRA Subsidy
On May 18, 2021, the IRS issued Notice 2021-31, a guidance document on the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) subsidy for continuation health coverage under the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1985 (COBRA). The Notice discusses the background of the subsidy and includes 86 questions and answers (Q&As) about its application. A Quick Recap: […]
Learn MoreMental Health Awareness Month of May
May is Mental Health Awareness month and a good month to reflect on the needs of our employees from a mental standpoint. The past year has been hard on us in many ways, but it is important to acknowledge the challenge that the COVID-19 pandemic has posed on us mentally. Many employees may have psychiatric […]
Learn MoreUpdate: DOL Model Notices
DOL Issues Model Notices, FAQs for COBRA Subsidy in the ARPA On April 7, 2021, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) issued FAQs and model notices for the COBRA premium assistance provisions of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). The ARPA provides a 100% subsidy for employer-sponsored group health insurance continued under COBRA and similar […]
Learn MoreCalifornia Labor Law Poster Changes
Update Your California and Federal Workplace Labor Law Posters New Labor Law Poster Changes FFCRA Paid Time Off Law: Covered Employees in the public or private sector who work for employers with more than 25 employees are entitled to up to 80 hours of COVID-19 related sick leave from January 1, 2021 through September, 2021, […]
Learn MoreEEOC Announces 2021 EEO-1 Reporting
The portal for private-sector employers to submit equal employment opportunity (EEO-1) workforce data from 2019 and 2020 will open on April 26, 2021, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) announced March 29, 2021. The agency also announced that the deadline for submitting 2019 and 2020 EEO-1 data is July 19, 2021. This data collection was previously delayed due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Learn MoreCongress Passes Extention of the PPP
PPP Extension moves beyond March 31. Congress has passed the PPP Extension Act of 2021, a 60-day extension of the U.S. Small Business Administration’s (SBA) Payment Protection Program (PPP), which was set to expire on March 31. The bill will be sent to President Joe Biden shortly, who is expected to sign the extension before […]
Learn MoreThe ARPA Act Affects COBRA Subsidy Provisions
The American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), signed into law March 11, 2021, provides a 100% subsidy of premiums for employer-sponsored group health insurance continued under the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1986 (COBRA) and similar state continuation of coverage (mini-COBRA) programs.
Learn MoreThe American Rescue Plan
The $1.9 trillion relief bill, known as the American Rescue Plan, has passed Congress and has been signed by President Biden. Highlights of the bill include extended unemployment benefits, direct checks to individuals and more.
Learn MoreHouse Passes $1.9 Trillion COVID-19 Economic Relief Bill
(Updated information will continue to be provided as details are made public.) The House of Representatives has passed its version of President Joe Biden’s proposed stimulus bill, which includes extended unemployment benefits, direct checks to individuals and more. The bill is now with the Senate, where some provisions will likely change. Democrats hope to pass […]
Learn MoreBiden Alters PPP To Benefit Smaller Busineses
The Biden administration recently announced a 14-day period of the U.S. Small Business Administration’s (SBA) Payment Protection Program (PPP) when only businesses with fewer than 20 employees can apply for relief.
Learn MoreNow Streaming! MyHRBuzz…The Podcast
The MyHRBuzz Podcast tackles topics relevant to the world of Human Resources, ranging from Federal compliance to workplace culture.
Learn MoreSBA’s PPP Fully Opens for Second Round of Loans
The U.S. Department of Treasury and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) recently announced updates to eligibility for Payment Protection Program (PPP) loan applications, allowing borrowers to apply through larger lenders. Beginning Tuesday, Jan. 19, the portal will open for borrowers to apply for both first (known as First Draw PPP Loans) and second (known […]
Learn MoreInfographic: Comparing The COVID-19 Stimulus Plans
On Monday, Dec. 21, 2020, Congress passed an emergency stimulus package designed to deliver approximately $900 billion in COVID-19-related aid. On Sunday, Dec. 27, 2020, President Donald Trump signed the bill into law. The bill was part of a $1.4 trillion spending package that will keep the government open for the fiscal year. Notably, the […]
Learn MoreWhat’s NOT In The Newest Covid-19 Related Stimulus Bill
See an overview of what is included in the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021, designed to deliver $900 billion in COVID-19 related aid.
Learn MoreWhat’s In The Newest Covid-19 Related Bill: Aid For Businesses
Recently, Congress passed an emergency stimulus package designed to deliver approximately $900 billion in COVID-19-related aid. On Sunday, Dec. 27, 2020, President Donald Trump signed the bill into law. The bill was part of a $1.4 trillion spending package that will keep the government open for the fiscal year. Notably, the bill provides funding for […]
Learn MoreWhat’s In The Newest Covid-19 Related Bill: Unemployment Funding And More…
On Monday, Dec. 21, 2020, Congress passed an emergency stimulus package designed to deliver approximately $900 billion in COVID-19-related aid. On Sunday, Dec. 27, 2020, President Donald Trump signed the bill into law. The bill was part of a $1.4 trillion spending package that will keep the government open for the fiscal year. Notably, the […]
Learn MorePPP Reopened and Second Draw To Come
The Paycheck Protection Program is reopened with over $284B in funds available for new loans and second draw loans.
Learn MoreStimulus Bill Extends FFCRA Tax Credits but Not Leave Mandate
An appropriations bill, which was signed into law on Dec. 27, 2020, does not extend the leave mandates created by the Emergency Family and Medical Leave Expansion Act (EFMLA) and the Emergency Paid Sick Leave Act (EPSLA), which expire on Dec. 31, 2020. As a result, the requirement for employers to provide employee paid sick […]
Learn MoreTrump Signs Stimulus Bill Act Into Law
Stimulus Bill Includes Ban on Surprise Medical Bills On Dec. 27, 2020, President Trump signed the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 into law. The Act includes a $900 billion coronavirus relief package that provides funding for unemployment benefits, direct economic payments to individuals, vaccine distribution and rental assistance. It also includes the No Surprises Act, a […]
Learn MoreCongress Passes $900 Billion in COVID-19 Aid
On Monday, Dec. 21, 2020, Congress passed an emergency stimulus package designed to deliver approximately $900 billion in COVID-19-related aid. The bill, which was part of a $1.4 trillion spending package that will keep the government open for the fiscal year, has been sent to President Donald Trump, and he is expected to sign it into law.
Learn MoreWill the FFCRA be extended or not?
As of now, the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) paid-leave requirements will expire on December 31, 2020. The FFCRA provided paid sick leave through the Emergency Paid Sick Leave Act for certain coronavirus related instances and extended paid leave for employees with children whose child care was shut down through the Emergency Family and […]
Learn MoreFFCRA Questions Keep Coming
Though it seems that COVID-19 has been top of mind for such a long time, new questions and COVID-19 related scenarios in the workplace keep coming.
Learn MoreThis 2020 HR Checklist Helps End The Year In Compliance
Out with 2020, in with the new year. In many ways, the final weeks of the year can be a little less demanding for most employees—a season of office parties, celebratory staff lunches, and vacation time. However, it’s one of the busiest periods for HR professionals. Before we can ring in 2021, we have to […]
Learn MoreCalifornia Update on Family and Medical Leave
California Expands Family and Medical Leave Under the CFRA Effective Jan. 1, 2021, amendments to the California Family Rights Act (CFRA) expand the law’s leave requirements to cover employers with at least five employees, provide new grounds for leave and remove leave limits. Explaining the CFRA The CFRA provides 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave […]
Learn MoreVerification of I-9 extended into November for some
Remote Verification of Form I-9 Documents Extended to November 19 Because of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is allowing employers that are operating remotely to conduct a remote verification of approved Form I-9 documents. On Sept. 15, 2020, DHS extended yet again this exemption for an additional 60 days. […]
Learn MoreWhat Records To Keep – FFCRA
What records do I need to keep when my employee takes paid sick leave or expanded family and medical leave? Regardless of whether you grant or deny a request for paid sick leave or expanded family and medical leave, you must document the following: The name of your employee requesting leave; The date(s) for which […]
Learn MoreDOL Reveals Revised FMLA forms
The Department of Labor (DOL) revised Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) forms this summer. Extensive changes have been made that require more specific information in notices and medical certifications. The use of the forms is optional as many employers create their own. It is important to note that additional changes to the forms could be […]
Learn MoreNY Federal Court Partially Vacates FFCRA Leave Regulations
In a case brought by the New York attorney general, a New York federal district court has vacated portions of regulations issued by the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA).
Learn MoreNew Q&As on COVID-19 Workplace Laws
DOL Releases More Q&As on Workplace Laws and COVID-19 Pandemic On July 20, 2020, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) announced the agency’s publication of additional guidance on applying federal employment laws in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. The guidance is in the form of questions and answers added to sets of Q&As the […]
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