As the summer is winding down, this is a good time to look back and take stock of the changes in the employment landscape.
If you were distracted this summer (and who isn’t when the weather is beautiful and the beach is calling?), you may have missed important changes in employee regulations. The Department of Labor (DOL) and the Courts didn’t take much of a beach vacation.
Luckily, I was paying attention. So, here is the quick overview of key decisions that will impact your business and employee relations:
- The news came like a clap of thunder is the beautiful July sky. The salary level for “white collar” exemptions will more than double in the next year, from $450/week or $970. This change applies to all employers regardless of the number of employees. If you have at least one employee, you need to know this !
- Another The Supreme Court extended the protection of marriage to same-sex couples. This has an impact on policies, payroll and employee benefits. Check out the article here.
- The DOL reminded employers that most workers are “probably employees” although you might like to classify them as independent contractors. If your organization loves free lancers, contractors, service providers, you need to brush up on what constitutes an employment relationship.
- Homecare employers got the news about overtime. Overtime is becoming a reality for homecare agencies that had been exempt under the companionship exemption. Learn how to get ready for overtime pay in homecare.
- Final kicker for federal contractors – In September, an executive order was published mandating paid sick-leave for federal contractors and sub-contractors. DOL will issue implementation guidelines by October. Even if your business is not in the federal contracting space, this new rule might be a sign of what’s to come. The Administration has introduced legislation requiring employers with at least 15 employees to offer up to 7 paid sick days each year. This has not passed but four states and Washington D.C. already mandate paid sick leave for all employers.
Bonus – The most popular blog post in recent months was my conversation with Suzanne Douglas of Style Capital about business summer dress. Although the summer is winding down, the nice weather is still with us. So if you missed Suzanne’s tips, here your chance to catch up!
** As always, I offer a free 30-minute consultation to business owners and managers who need help with HR projects, employee training and support to their solo HR. Use the form below to connect with me today! **
