Last May, the Department of Labor (DOL) announced a new rule that would affect who qualifies for overtime. Since then, the rule has been blocked and is currently being appealed by the DOL.

Here is a brief timeline of events thus far: Read More

Many employee benefits are subject to annual dollar limits that are periodically increased for inflation. The IRS recently announced cost-of-living adjustments to the annual dollar limits for various welfare and retirement plan limits for 2018. Although some of the limits will remain the same, many of the limits will increase for 2018.

Employers should update their benefit plan designs for the new limits and also make sure that their plan administration will be consistent with the new limits in 2018. Employers may also want to communicate the new benefit plan limits to employees during annual open enrollment. Read More

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.

Policy Considerations

Sexual harassment policies should contain the following items:

• Make clear what behaviors, both verbal and physical, constitute sexual harassment, and stress that the company has a strict no-tolerance policy.
• Encourage employees to bring forth claims of harassment so that the company can investigate, take appropriate action and take necessary steps to prevent future harassment.
• Guidelines for how to report sexual harassment
• A complaint procedure and a response to the complaints procedure for personnel management Read More

While the holiday season brings joy and togetherness, it can also bring stress for many individuals and families. Top holiday stressors include staying on a budget, managing multiple commitments and finding the perfect gift. Fortunately, by getting organized and planning out what you can ahead of time, you can help reduce your holiday stress.

• Write down any known commitments. Does your child’s school have a holiday concert? Are you planning on hosting a holiday dinner? Making a list of your commitments will help you plan your time and help you avoid double-booking yourself.
• Create your budget now. If you’re stressed about how your holiday spending will impact you after the holidays are over, you’re not alone. Remember, the sentiment of a gift is much more important than the cost. Set a realistic budget and do not go over it. Read more