AI 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.
MyHRBuzz Podcast | Feb 09, 2021
Now Streaming! MyHRBuzz…The Podcast
The MyHRBuzz Podcast tackles topics relevant to the world of Human Resources, ranging from Federal compliance to workplace culture.
Learn MorePodcast: Explaining Pay Transparency Laws – What Employers Should Know
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 to address pay inequity from an […]
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.
Final Forms & ACA Instructions For 2022
Final Forms and Instructions for 2022 ACA Reporting Updates to 2022 ACA forms and instructions The 2022 forms are essentially unchanged from the prior year. The instructionshave been updated to include the permanent, 30-day automatic extension oftime for furnishing statements to individuals under Sections 6055 and 6056.Due to this extension, individual statements for 2022 must […]
Tips for Training Managers on FMLA Compliance
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 employees may take up to 12 […]
Employer Information About Pay Transparency
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 demanding pay transparency. Further, some jurisdictions […]
2023 ACA Compliance Checklist
ACA Requirement Changes Taking Effect in 2023 Changes to some ACA requirements will take effect in 2023 for employers sponsoring group health plans. To prepare for 2023, employers should review these requirements and develop a compliance strategy. Employers should ensure that their health plan documents, including the summary of benefits and coverage (SBC), are updated […]
DHS 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.
Updated 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.
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).
Continue 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.
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?
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 long COVID. It has been reported […]
Form 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 […]
Are 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 […]
A 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 […]
DHS 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. (Note on July 23, 2023, DHS revised the Form I-9 and Remote Employment Eligibility […]
Know 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 […]
ACA 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% […]
How Employers Can Build Strength With DEI Initiatives In The Workplace.
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 social changes. According to a 2019 […]
DHS 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 […]
Early Preparation Is Crucial For 2023 Open Enrollment
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 about their physical and mental health, […]
Things 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 […]
New 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 […]
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!
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, […]
Virtual 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 […]
Retain And Attract Talent By Providing A Culture Of Learning
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 their growth and development as human […]
Proposed 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) […]
Post-Covid Long-term Effects Puts A Spotlight On Employee Wellness
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 now in the workplace. The following […]
The Top HR Issues In The World of Remote Hiring!
Hiring Remotely Can Solve Major Staffing Problems If You Maintain These Practices For Compliance With labor shortages, quitting and re-hiring issues, is remote hiring the answer? We know that as the landscape continues to change: Almost 60% of employees prefer a hybrid work model, and a third prefer exclusively remote, according to a Gallup study. Nearly […]
IRS Raises Mileage Rates for Second Half of 2022
For the first time since 2011, the IRS has made a midyear adjustment to the optional mileage rate used to calculate the deductible costs of operating an automobile for business and other specific purposes. The agency said the change is in recognition of recent gasoline price increases. In Announcement 2022-13, released June 9, 2022, the […]
MyHRScreens Acquires VeriData In An Exciting Blend Of Personal Service, Accuracy And Industry Expertise.
MyHRScreens is proud to announce that we will be growing. VeriData is now a part of MyHRScreens. With this opportunity, we are proud to offer continued excellence for current VeriData clients as well as improvements to all MyHRscreens and VeriData clientele. VeriData has been owned and operated previously by Jeanna Israel, President and CEO, and […]
Employers 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.
You Can’t Depend ONLY On FBI Fingerprint Checks For Employee Screening
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 bulk of the information can often […]
ACA Sets Due Date Of Aug 1,2022 For PCORI Fees
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 to pay the PCORI fees annually […]
DOL 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. […]
Hiring “For Keeps” In This Healthcare Shortage
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 health workers, leaving health care facilities […]
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
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 […]
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
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 struggled with mental health or substance […]
Employers Can Still Receive Employee Retention Tax Credits!
In this episode of MyHRBuzz, we talk about the Employee Retention Tax Credit (ERTC) opportunities that are often left behind. It’s not too late to receive these tax credits.
Inflation Brings HSA/HDHP Limits Increase for 2023
On April 29, 2022, the IRS released Revenue Procedure 2022-24 to provide the inflation-adjusted limits for health savings accounts (HSAs) and high deductible health plans (HDHPs) for 2023.
I Missed My ACA Deadline, Now What?
If you did not file your 1094/1095 forms with the IRS or furnish the 1095 forms to your employees, it is important to file and furnish them as soon as possible. Get with an HR Expert to assist you in ACA reporting after the deadline.
Claim 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.
Long-term Care Poses Preventable HR Risks
Learn about a number of preventive solutions that can aid in creating lasting success for HR administrators in long-term or senior care facilities.
Wearable Technology and the Workforce
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 their health trends. In fact, wearable […]
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.
DOL 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.
Podcast: 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.
HR’s Role in Preventing Cyberattacks
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 a record-setting 1,862 incidents. Of these […]
Multi-State Employee Handbook Compliance for Remote Employees
If you are a business owner with remote workers across multiple states, you have HR compliance challenges. Avoid risking expensive penalties with ongoing Employee Handbook Compliance, regardless of which state your employees are in.
Your Website Might Not Be ADA Compliant!
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 are accessible to individuals with disabilities, […]
New 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.
COVID-19 National Emergency Extended, Deadline Relief Continues
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) to request special enrollment. COBRA time […]
More 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 […]
Updated 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 […]
Biden 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.
From 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 […]
ALERT: 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) […]
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.
Workplace Litigation Report Warns of Increased EEOC Enforcement in 2022
The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) is likely to increase enforcement efforts in 2022. According to law firm Seyfarth Shaw’s annual Workplace Class Action Litigation Report the EEOC is likely to increase enforcement in the coming year. The report provides a circuit-by-circuit and state-by-state review of significant class-action rulings and offers an analysis of significant […]
COBRA 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.
DOL 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.
FAQs, Workplace Poster Issued for Calif. Supplemental Paid Sick Leave
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, covering the following topics: General Questions […]
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
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. 1, 2022. California previously had a […]
Congress 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 […]
Make Hiring Easy in 2022 with Employee Screening & Background Check Experts
It’s “go time” for hiring! Industries are continuing to feel the strain of the pandemic into 2022 while trying to hire for vacant positions.
Employees are part of your corporate brand, reputation, and success. Therefore, hiring a trustworthy and reputable worker is very important. One of the tools we use to make sure that we hire only trustworthy and reputable workers is through thorough employee screening.
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.
OSHA Withdraws COVID-19 But Not The Proposed Permanent Rule
On Jan. 13, 2022, the Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS) stayed the vaccination and testing ETS. Because of this ruling, OSHA is withdrawing the ETS as an enforceable ETS. However, the agency is not withdrawing the ETS as a proposed permanent rule, and the standard rule-making process will continue.
ALERT: U.S. Supreme Court Blocks OSHA ETS!
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 health care workers to go into […]
Schedule for EEO-1 Reporting Announced
The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) announced that it will open the 2021 EEO-1 Component 1 Report on April 12, 2022 with a due date of May 17, 2022. The EEOC’s announcement indicates that both dates are “tentative” and EEO-1 opening and closing dates have been subject to modification by EEOC in recent years. The […]
More HR Challenges Ahead For 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 evaluating talent. Once hired, the challenge […]
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
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 […]
Negligence in Hiring and Managing Employees Can Put Employers at Great Risk
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 through the hiring process can be […]
Don’t Be Late. Extended 2022 ACA Deadline To Keep In Mind
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 may be liable for a penalty […]
CDC Recommends Shorter COVID-19 Isolation and Quarantine
On Monday, Dec. 27, 2021, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reduced its recommended periods for COVID-19 isolation (confirmed COVID-19 infection) and quarantine (potential COVID-19 exposure). Asymptomatic individuals infected with COVID-19 have been told to isolate for five days from the day they test positive—down from the original 10. After, they should wear a mask […]
FDA Authorizes Pfizer COVID-19 Treatment Pill
On Wednesday, Dec. 22, 2022, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued emergency use authorization for an antiviral pill intended to help treat COVID-19 cases. Paxlovid, manufactured by Pfizer, is the first antiviral COVID-19 pill authorized for at-home use. According to the FDA, individuals ages 12 and up—weighing at least 88 pounds—should take the prescription-only […]
Podcast: Behind the 6th District Court Decision To Approve the Vaccine Mandate. What Employers Should Do To Prepare.
In this podcast: As the news of the OSHA Vaccine Mandate for Employers spreads, Chris Cooley discusses why the Court’s decision was made and look at the expectations of employers moving into the new deadline for vaccination.
Behind 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.
Important Update: Court Reinstates OSHA Vaccination Mandate for Private Employers
Private Employers with 100 or more employees should expect the vaccination mandate as 6th Circuit Federal Court reinstates OSHA vaccination mandate.
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!
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. […]
How to Make Your Hybrid Model Workplace Succeed
Tips for making your hybrid model workplace succeed.
Update 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.
How Can Employers Prepare For The “Omicron” COVID-19 Variant?
Now is the time for employers to review their coronavirus-related policies and remind employees of the continued importance of following workplace safety practices. Prepare Your Workplace Now. We have the luxury of experience, with this being our third variant to experience with COVID-19. While drawing on that experience, we encourage employers to communicate and address policies such as these.
Court Blocks Vaccine Mandate for Federal Contractors in Three States
On Nov. 30, 2021, a 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.
2022 Deadline Extension for ACA Reporting Forms To Employees
The IRS proposes regulations that would permanently extend by 30 days the deadline for employers to furnish individual statements to full-time employees that indicate whether their employer-sponsored health insurance met ACA requirements for minimum essential coverage.
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.
EEOC Guidance on Retaliation & Interference Related To The Pandemic
EEOC addresses concerns about retaliation. The new FAQs, which were added to the EEOC’s existing guidance on COVID-19 and fair employment issues, address the rights of employees and applicants who believe they suffered retaliation for protected activities under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Title VII of the Civil Rights Act or other employment discrimination laws.
Is It The Flu Or Is It COVID-19?
Read these frequently asked questions about the Flu Season and COVID-19 from the Centers for Disease Control.
It’s Worth It. Why An SMB Should Outsource HR Tasks.
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 compliance mistakes is increasing. Keeping up […]