CDC Updates Guidance for Vaccinated Persons
Today, April 27, 2021, the CDC issued updated guidance for fully vaccinated persons (2 weeks after last vaccine dose or 2 weeks after the J&J vaccine). Employers should use CDC’s guidance but may require stricter safety precautions for their workplace, if needed. Employers must also follow applicable local and state public health orders. Per the […]
Call to Action: New COBRA Notices Due Soon
On April 12, 2021, Lake Effect HR & Law posted a blog notifying our readers about new COBRA provisions under the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (ARPA). We encourage employers who are federal or state COBRA covered employers to take prompt action, as deadlines for notices are upon us. Starting April 1, 2021, employers […]
New COBRA Notice Requirements for Employers Under the American Rescue Plan Act
On April 7, 2021, the US Department of Labor published FAQs and model notices implementing the temporary COBRA premium assistance provisions of the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (ARPA). Employers and other group health plan issuers are subject to new COBRA notice and other requirements. What: Under the ARPA, “Assistance Eligible Individuals” may elect […]
Twelve Months Later: How Has Your Organization Evolved?
The past 12 months have been a time like no other, forcing organizations to pivot quickly to accommodate a new reality. Now is the time to review handbook policies and internal processes that may have been revised on the fly in response to changing circumstances. You can start by reviewing the ways your organization has […]
Learning To Build A Stronger Teams In A Virtual World
Many of us are starting to think about what our workspaces will look like when we are able to return more consistently or completely to the workplace. These options include returning full time to the office, continuing to work remotely, or a blend of the two. No matter which option your organization chooses for its […]
Biden Administration Impact on the Workplace
Just one week into his administration, President Biden has signaled that he will take a fresh look at current issues affecting American workers and workplaces. His recent executive orders and memoranda include the following actions: Halt Final Rules governing tip pools and independent contractors: This Executive memorandum stays pending final rules that have been published […]
DOL Issues Final Rule on Independent Contractor Status under FLSA
***Update, January 27, 2021*** UPDATED BY EXECUTIVE ORDER – CLICK HERE FOR UPDATED INFORMATION **** On January 6, 2021, the US Department of Labor announced a final rule establishing the test for whether a worker will be classified as an independent contractor or an employee under the Fair Labor Standards Act (“FLSA”). The final rule […]
‘Tis the Season
This year has taught us lessons we could not have imagined a year ago: lessons on time management, work-life integration, and overcoming professional and personal hurdles. Even in the best of times, the end of the calendar year can be extremely busy for many organizations. For individuals, this time of year also brings hectic schedules […]
Employee Holiday Travel during COVID-19
Traditionally, November and December are months when employees take more time off to travel and/or spend time with family and friends for holidays. This year, employers and employees need to consider the health risks involved in traveling and group gatherings due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The reality is that employees’ increased exposure to COVID-19 can […]
Benefit Limits for 2021
Each year, the IRS sets new limits for High Deductible Health Plans, Health Savings Accounts, and Flexible Benefit Plans. Please see below for our ready reference chart setting forth the Benefits Limits for the 2021 tax year. Download Table 2021 2020 Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) Healthcare FSA max election (per year) (incl. LTD FSA) $2,750 […]
