Understanding the New York Retail Worker Safety Act: What Employers Need to Know

Learn about the New York Retail Worker Safety Act, effective March 3, 2025, and potential amendments. Discover employer requirements for workplace violence policies, training, and silent response buttons to enhance retail worker safety.

Podcast- Your Workplace Blueprint: The Critical Role of Employee Handbooks

In this episode of MyHRBuzz, host Chris Cooley sits down with Emily Frederick, SHRM-CP, Senior HR Consultant at MyHRConcierge, to dive into the crucial role of employee handbooks in today’s workplace.

Employers’ Toolkit: Complying with the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act

Last Updated on October 17, 2024 The Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA), effective June 2023, establishes vital protections for pregnant employees and job applicants. For employers with 15 or more employees, understanding and implementing the provisions of this act is essential for compliance and fostering a supportive workplace. Here’s how to effectively handle situations involving […]

Understanding Final Pay: A Guide for Employers

Navigate the complexities of final pay laws with our comprehensive state-by-state guide. This blog post outlines the specific legal requirements for employers regarding final paychecks, helping you stay compliant and informed.

Podcast – Year-End HR Essentials: Your Compliance & Housekeeping Checklist

In this MyHRBuzz podcast episode, dive into the essential housekeeping and compliance tasks that every HR team should tackle before the new year begins.

Navigating the Remote Work Landscape: Strategies for Companies Without Remote Positions 

Last Updated on September 25, 2024 The shift toward remote work has significantly transformed the job market, creating both challenges and opportunities for companies that are not able to offer remote positions. As many individuals now prioritize flexibility and remote work options, businesses must adapt to this new reality to attract and retain talent. This blog […]

Prioritizing HR Well-Being: The Key to a Thriving Workplace Culture

Last Updated on June 10, 2024 In today’s fast-paced and demanding work environments, the role of Human Resources (HR) professionals has become increasingly critical. HR departments are tasked with managing employee relations, recruiting top talent, fostering a positive work culture and ensuring compliance with laws and regulations. However, amidst these responsibilities, the mental health and […]

Navigating the Complexities of the Ever-Evolving World of HR Compliance 

Last Updated on June 10, 2024 In today’s dynamic business landscape, the realm of Human Resources (HR) compliance is in a constant state of flux. With changing laws, regulations and societal norms, staying abreast of compliance requirements has become a formidable challenge for HR professionals. Let’s delve into the intricacies of HR compliance, explore the […]

Employer Tips For Preventing Sexual Harassment Claims

According to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), employers have a duty to investigate sexual harassment complaints and must take actions to prevent the recurrence of such offensive conduct in their workplace. In addition to these actions, an employer should have a sexual harassment policy in place outlining the company’s intolerance for sexual harassment.

Holiday Party Success: Inclusive and Safe Strategies

Last Updated on December 16, 2023 Holiday parties are a vital aspect of corporate culture, providing an opportunity for employees to relax and bond. However, they can also be seen by employees as opportunities to act inappropriately, which can cause headaches for Human Resources and potentially lead to lawsuits. An example of holiday parties gone […]

Key HR Focus Areas for Success in a Complex Landscape

Last Updated on January 28, 2024 In the complex and ever-evolving landscape of Human Resources (HR), staying compliant with regulations and best practices is a key HR focus area for HR Professionals. HR professionals play a critical role in ensuring that their department adheres to legal requirements, fosters a positive work environment, and contributes to […]

Podcast: Understanding The Employer Benefits Of Section 125 Plans

Last Updated on July 19, 2024 MyHRBuzz host, Chris Cooley, speaks with Patti Reimer, Sales Executive of Value Added Products for BenefitMall about Section 125 plans and how they benefit employers. Timestamps Listen to more episodes of the MyHRBuzz podcast.

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.

Employee Handbooks vs. Policies

Last Updated on August 20, 2024 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 […]

Gen Z Is Making Noise In The Workplace

Last Updated on April 25, 2023 A Younger Generation Brings Challenges In Engagement Managers and HR professionals have probably heard of the engagement issues alleged to have infected Millennials and Generation Z in the workplace, as manifested in terms like “quiet quitting.” Of course, workers in any age group can and certainly do engage in […]

Employers 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.

Are You a ‘Covered Employer’ Under the FMLA?

It’s important to note that FMLA obligations don’t kick in unless an employer qualifies as a “covered employer” under the statute.

Sometimes, determining whether an employer is covered can get a little tricky. The questions abound: How many employees must be retained? For how long? What if we straddle the minimum number over the course of time? What about part-time employees? Those on leave? And the list goes on.

Pay Transparency Expectations for Your Company

Last Updated on March 8, 2023 Employers Continue to Prepare for Pay Transparency As the number of places that require pay transparency rises, it’s clear that the trend of pay transparency is not going away. Just because the state you’re operating in doesn’t yet require disclosing salary or pay equity information, it’s advised that you […]

Department of Labor Guidance on Telework and FMLA

Last Updated on January 16, 2024 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 […]

Podcast: Explaining Pay Transparency Laws – What Employers Should Know

Last Updated on February 10, 2023 Chris Cooley and HR expert Emily Frederick discuss pay transparency laws including what some states are requiring and how employers can prepare for pay transparency compliance.  Timestamps:  1:24  What does pay transparency mean for an employer?  1:45  What is the goal of pay transparency? 2:12  Why is it important […]

Podcast: 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.

Tips for Training Managers on FMLA Compliance 

Last Updated on January 16, 2024 What is the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)? 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. FMLA compliance is crucial for employers to avoid significant penalties. In general, eligible […]

Employer Information About Pay Transparency

Last Updated on November 30, 2022 Pay transparency is when an employer openly communicates pay-related information through established practices to current or prospective employees. Employers can provide this information through various channels, such as online job sites, job postings or during an interview. As a result of changing labor markets, more and more employees are […]

DOL 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).

Employers 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.

Year-End HR Compliance Checklist

Read our checklist of important human resources compliance items to consider before the end of 2022

2023 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.

Is Long Covid-19 Still Affecting The Workplace?

Last Updated on September 18, 2022 Long COVID-19 Is Keeping Up to 4 Million Workers Out of Labor Market Long COVID-19—long-term effects stemming from COVID-19 infection—continues to impact the labor market and the health of employees. The U.S. Census Bureau’s June to July 2022 Household Pulse Survey found that 16.3 million working-age Americans currently have […]

Form I-9: Don’t Make These Mistakes

Last Updated on September 7, 2023 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 […]

Are HR Compliance Requirements Increasing For Your Business? Work Smarter.

Last Updated on August 28, 2022 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 […]

A Checklist for Completing Form 1-9

Last Updated on August 21, 2022 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 […]

DHS Proposes Permanent Rule Allowing Remote Verification of Form I-9 Documents

Last Updated on October 15, 2023 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. (Note on July 23, 2023, DHS revised the […]

Know The Difference Between The Multi-jurisdictional (MJD) And Other Searches?

Last Updated on August 12, 2023 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 […]

ACA Pay or Play Affordability Percentage Decreased for 2023

Last Updated on August 3, 2022 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 […]

How Employers Can Build Strength With DEI Initiatives In The Workplace.

Last Updated on August 1, 2022 Diversity, Equity And Inclusion Are “Buzzing” Around The Workplace. Diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) is a lot more than the newest buzzword in HR. It’s a critical element to success these days. Calls for diverse and inclusive workplaces are now becoming more common in many organizations due to major […]

DHS Proposed Rule Would Amend Section 1557 Sex Discrimination Regulations

Last Updated on July 27, 2022 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 […]

Early Preparation Is Crucial For 2023 Open Enrollment

Last Updated on July 22, 2022 Early open enrollment prep can be an opportunity for retention by putting employee needs first. The job market is still dealing with the after-effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Workers are taking stock of their circumstances and considering which employment perks matter the most. Specifically, employees are increasingly more concerned […]

Things to Know When Hiring In Other States

Last Updated on November 3, 2023 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 […]

New Updates To EEOC Covid Workplace Policies

Last Updated on July 18, 2022 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 […]

COBRA 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.

Form 5500 Deadline Coming Up In August!

Last Updated on July 12, 2022 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 […]

Virtual 1-9 Employment Verification Possible

Last Updated on July 6, 2022 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 […]

Retain And Attract Talent By Providing A Culture Of Learning

Last Updated on July 5, 2022 Every business and HR pro knows that the competition for top talent is tough. We’ve discovered a strategy that helps the whole employee, mentally and also professionally. We’ve discovered something that will make employees really want to stay long-term. People want to work for companies that are invested in […]

Proposed Overtime Rule Expected in October 2022

Last Updated on June 29, 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 […]

Post-Covid Long-term Effects Puts A Spotlight On Employee Wellness

Last Updated on June 27, 2022 While we recognize that COVID case numbers are down, researchers are just now to find out what COVID’s long-term mental health effects will be.  Though this is information that will continue to change within our working landscape, employee well-being is more important than ever and we can address some areas right […]

You Can’t Depend ONLY On FBI Fingerprint Checks For Employee Screening

Last Updated on June 5, 2023 FBI Fingerprints Aren’t As Accurate As You Think Many industries like healthcare, childcare, finance, and other safety-sensitive positions are required by law to do a fingerprint-based background check. However, you should not ONLY rely on fingerprint background checks. This can give employers a false sense of security because the […]

ACA Sets Due Date Of Aug 1,2022 For PCORI Fees

Last Updated on June 3, 2022 PCORI Fees Due Aug. 1, 2022 The Affordable Care Act (ACA) requires health insurance issuers and self-insured plan sponsors to pay Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute fees (PCORI fees). The fees are reported and paid annually using IRS Form 720 (Quarterly Federal Excise Tax Return). Issuers and plan sponsors are generally required […]

DOL Issues Guidance on FMLA and Mental Health Conditions

Last Updated on January 16, 2024 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 […]

Hiring “For Keeps” In This Healthcare Shortage

Last Updated on May 27, 2022 How Do We Solve This Healthcare Shortage With Our Next Hire? Read how your business can avoid more turnover at a time of need. As U.S. hospitals and clinics deal with more patients, both COVID-19 and non-COVID, many are facing staffing shortages. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the ongoing shortage of […]

EEO-1 Deadline Extended for 2021 Reports

Employers subject to equal employment opportunity reporting (EEO-1) requirements now have until June 21, 2022 to file their workforce data from 2021. The initial deadline had already been delayed from March 31 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

EEOC and DOL Issue Guidance on Artificial Intelligence and ADA Disability Discrimination

Last Updated on May 18, 2022 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 […]

More 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.

Recognizing Mental Health Trends During Mental Health Awareness Month

Last Updated on May 11, 2022 Employers Are Responding to Mental Health Concerns Mental health has been a hot topic this year, thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic. Over the past two years, so many people have experienced issues such as burnout, depression, anxiety, and substance addiction. In fact, 40% of U.S. adults said they have […]

Wearable Technology and the Workforce

Last Updated on April 20, 2022 Nearly 1 in 5 Americans (21%) say they regularly wear a smartwatch or fitness tracker. Pew Research Center Wearable tech: Pros and Cons For Employers Wearable technology isn’t a new feature. For years, personal gadgets such as smartwatches have been gaining popularity among people who want better insight into […]

Best Steps For An Employer When An Employee Quits

When an employee leaves, what do you need to say and do as an employer? There are steps for your organization to consider following a sudden departure.

Podcast: Discussing Senior Living Industry Background Checks In Depth.

Last Updated on June 14, 2022 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.

HR’s Role in Preventing Cyberattacks

Last Updated on April 4, 2022 By Training Employees HR Can Lead The Cybersecurity Fight Cyberattacks are a growing concern for employers across the globe but especially for those in the United States. According to the Identity Theft Resource Center, the number of reported U.S. data breaches rose 68% between 2020 and 2021, increasing to […]

Your Website Might Not Be ADA Compliant!

Last Updated on March 23, 2022 Learn How Your Business Website Design Can Become An HR Risk DOJ Guidance on the ADA and Web Accessibility for Businesses and State and Local Governments On March 18, 2022, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) issued guidance on how public and private entities can ensure that their websites […]

COVID-19 National Emergency Extended, Deadline Relief Continues

Last Updated on March 22, 2022 On Feb. 18, 2022, President Biden announced an extension of the National Emergency concerning COVID-19, stating that it must continue in effect beyond March 1, 2022. This extension impacts deadline relief related to the following employee benefit plan deadlines: HIPAA time frames—The 30-day period (or 60-day period, if applicable) […]

More Answers to Updated IRS Tax Credit FAQs

Last Updated on March 9, 2022 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 […]

Updated FAQs From IRS For Tax Credits Under FFCRA

Last Updated on March 7, 2022 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 […]

ALERT: March 2022 ACA Deadlines Are Here!

Last Updated on March 1, 2022 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 […]

CDC Loosens Mask-wearing Guidance for Most of U.S. Population 

The CDC is loosening guidance for a majority of the U.S. population. The agency now only recommends that individuals in high-risk areas wear a mask in indoor settings. Currently, around 70% of the U.S. population is in a low- or medium-risk county. As such, the CDC would no longer recommend that these individuals wear a mask indoors.

FAQs, Workplace Poster Issued for Calif. Supplemental Paid Sick Leave

Last Updated on April 5, 2022 The California Department of Industrial Relations has published answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs) and a poster for employers to use in connection with the state’s new COVID-19 supplemental paid sick leave law. The law takes effect Feb. 19, 2022, but is retroactive to Jan. 1, 2022. FAQs  There are 37 FAQs in all, […]

Why You Should Screen Employees Regularly

Your employees are both your biggest asset as well as your biggest risk. One of the ways you can prevent expensive risk is by regularly re-screening your employees. Learn more about the benefits of FCRA compliant screening of your existing workforce from MyHRScreens.

California Passes Supplemental Paid Sick Leave for COVID-19 

Last Updated on February 15, 2022 Governor Gavin Newsom signs COVID sick leave bill California has enacted a new supplemental paid sick leave law requiring employers with more than 25 employees to provide them with up to 80 hours of paid leave for specific COVID-19-related reasons. The requirement takes effect on Feb. 19, 2022, but it is retroactive to Jan. […]

Congress Bans Forced Arbitration and Waivers of Sexual Harassment and Assault Claims

Last Updated on February 14, 2022 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 […]

Avoid These 10 ADA Compliance Mistakes

What can employers do to prepare for ADA and prevent liability? The burden has shifted, now more than ever, to employers to provide reasonable accommodations when possible and show care in handling disability-related issues in the workplace.

Managing Uncertainty During the Pandemic

Although post-pandemic life seems far out of reach, there are healthy ways for you to manage any uncertainty, anxiety and stress.

ALERT: U.S. Supreme Court Blocks OSHA ETS!

Last Updated on January 13, 2022 The U.S. Supreme Court struck down the Biden administration’s vaccine-or-test rule Thursday, January 13, 2022, declaring that the Occupational Safety and Health Administration had exceeded its authority.  The Supreme Court issued mixed rulings in a pair of cases challenging Biden administration COVID-19 vaccine mandates, allowing the requirement for certain […]

More HR Challenges Ahead For 2022.

Last Updated on January 27, 2022 Riding the wave of “The Great Resignation” The staffing and talent shortage, often now referred to as the Great Resignation, is making it challenging for organizations to find quality employees to fill vacant roles. To mitigate the effects of this shortage, HR leaders must devise more effective strategies for […]

Updated: 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.

Common Questions About COVID-19 and the ADA

Last Updated on October 26, 2022 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 […]

Negligence in Hiring and Managing Employees Can Put Employers at Great Risk

Last Updated on December 21, 2022 Negligence Claims From Employees Regarding Employment As we enter into 2022, there continues to be a rush of hiring to fill positions that have been vacant throughout the pandemic. It’s been hard to find employees, and also to retain employees. We understand the need for staffing quickly, however, rushing […]

Don’t Be Late. Extended 2022 ACA Deadline To Keep In Mind

Last Updated on January 4, 2022 Update, January, 2022 – The deadline for ACA reporting forms to employers has been extended but with all of the busy new year HR tasks, it will be important to keep this deadline on your radar. Late or inaccurate forms could lead the IRS to notify an employer that it […]

EEOC Issues New Guidance on COVID-19 and ADA Disability

On Dec. 14, 2021, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) issued 14 new answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs) about what employers may or may not do to comply with federal fair employment laws during the COVID-19 pandemic. The new FAQs specifically address the definition of “disability” and how to determine whether an individual with COVID-19 meets it under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). 

Why Consistency Is Key In Corporate Employee Screening

When it comes to background checks, the information you verify and how often it is evaluated will prevent legal risk and build trust. An inconsistent approach to background checks could result in poor hires and could also leave employers open to potential negligent hiring lawsuits.

Resolution 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.

New Court Decision Blocks Vaccine Mandate for Federal Contractors Nationwide!

Last Updated on December 8, 2021 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 […]

COVID Variant Omicron Causes Serious Concern for Employers

A new variant of coronavirus initially detected in South Africa is prompting renewed concern regarding the pandemic. On Nov. 26, 2022, the World Health Organization (WHO) named the new variant “Omicron.” Omicron was labeled a “variant of concern,” the agency’s most serious category for tracking. Such a designation is reserved for dangerous variants that may be more transmissible or virulent or could decrease the effectiveness of vaccines or treatments.

It’s Worth It. Why An SMB Should Outsource HR Tasks.

Last Updated on November 3, 2023 Work Smarter By Outsourcing HR Tasks Even if you have an HR professional(s) on staff, it is smart to outsource HR tasks to supplement your internal HR team. Laws and policies are changing more often than ever, due to recent current events, including the COVID-19 pandemic. The risk of […]

Diving Deeper Into The Current Stay of The OSHA ETS

Last Updated on November 16, 2021 On Nov. 12, 2021, the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals (the Court) extended the stay it ordered for the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) vaccine and testing emergency temporary standard (ETS) on Nov. 6, 2021. The judicial stay will remain in effect until the ETS’ legality is ultimately […]

Final 2021 Forms For ACA Reporting Released

Last Updated on November 15, 2021 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 […]

Update: The Court Speaks, Maintains Block on Biden Vaccine Mandate

Last Updated on November 15, 2021 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 […]

Penalties 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.

What Does the OSHA ETS Require From Employers?

OSHA’s ETS provisions require private employers with 100 or more employees to comply with several COVID-19-related requirements.

Update: OSHA ETS Mandate Date Set For Jan 4!

Workers at larger businesses will have to get vaccinated against COVID-19 by January 4, 2022 or face regular testing under new federal rules. Read more about this Emergency Temporary Standard from OSHA.

Are Your Background Checks FCRA Truly Compliant? A Helpful Overview.

Last Updated on November 3, 2021 FCRA Compliance for Employers Using Consumer Background Checks As the end of the year comes to a close, many businesses will be running their annual background checks. This overview will outline the steps an employer must take to comply with the FCRA. The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) is […]

Attraction 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.      

2021 ACA Violations & Penalties For Employers

Last Updated on January 13, 2022 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.

2022 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.

Cal/OSHA Amends Notice and Reporting Requirements for COVID-19

Last Updated on October 21, 2021 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 […]

Federal Employers Receive Deadline Of November 22 To Be Vaccinated

Last Updated on October 21, 2021 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 […]

Signs That OSHA ETS, Vaccination Mandate Is Moving Forward

Last Updated on October 21, 2021 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). […]

How At-Home COVID-19 Tests May Help The Employer.

Last Updated on October 11, 2021  FDA Authorizes New At-home Rapid Test for COVID-19 As an employer, within the workplace, we want to do all we can to prevent the spread or exposure from COVID-19. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a new over-the-counter COVID-19 antigen test—the Flowflex COVID-19 Home Test from ACON Laboratories—to […]

COBRA Deadline Extension Relief Clarification IRS Notice 2021-58

More information on the COBRA deadline extension. IRS Notice 2021-58 clarifies the application of certain COBRA deadline extensions for electing COBRA coverage and paying COBRA premiums under prior relief that was issued as a result of the COVID-19 outbreak (“Emergency Relief”).

Understanding Forms 1095A, B & C For ACA Reporting

A number of changes were introduced to the health insurance marketplace with the passage of the ACA in 2010. From different reporting forms and health insurance plan requirements to the penalties imposed on employers for failing to comply with the Employer Mandate — The ACA created unique responsibilities for employers, health insurance carriers, and individuals alike. One of the ACA’s unique requirements from a reporting perspective relates to the different Forms 1095. The following information and take the confusion out of these forms.

Update On The Extension To Employee Retention Tax Credit (ERTC)

Last Updated on September 30, 2021 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 […]

At-A-Glance Guidance For Employers In Preparation For Biden Vaccine Mandate

Last Updated on January 13, 2022 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 […]

PPE Expenses are Reimbursable Under Health FSAs, HRAs and HSAs

In this article we talk about the fact that the recent IRS guidance provided that amounts paid by individuals for PPE—including masks, hand sanitizer and sanitizing wipes used for the primary purpose of preventing the spread of COVID-19—are deductible medical expenses. Therefore, the amount you paid for the PPE that is not compensated for by insurance may be deductible as long as your total medical expenses are more than 7.5% of your adjusted gross income (AGI).