NLRB Scrutiny Requires Review of Employee Agreements
Based upon the NLRB’s recent decision in McLaren Macomb (February 23, 2023) and related General Counsel Memorandum 23-05 (March 22, 2023), employers (whether unionized or not) should review severance and other employment agreements containing confidentiality, non-disclosure, or non-disparagement provisions to ensure compliance with the Board’s restrictive new standards. In McLaren Macomb, the NLRB examined severance […]
Commit to a Healthy Organization for 2023; Conduct an HR Check-Up
It’s the start of a new year when many of us commit to personal goals and healthy resolutions. For employers, the new year presents a valuable opportunity to conduct an HR check-up, evaluating and updating HR policies and practices to ensure legal compliance while attracting and retaining a diverse, engaged, and talented workforce. Consider the following […]
Benefits Limits for 2023
Each year, the IRS sets new limits for employee benefits plans and retirement plans. Please see below for Lake Effect’s ready reference chart setting forth the Benefits Limits for the 2023 tax year. A PDF of this information is available here. 2022 2023 Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) Healthcare FSA max election […]
EEOC Issues Updated “Know Your Rights” Poster
On October 19, the United States Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) issued an updated “Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination Is Illegal” poster. The poster replaces the prior “EEO is the Law” poster. It summarizes federal employment laws and explains steps individuals can take if they believe they have experienced any form of prohibited discrimination. Employers […]
Employers Face New Challenges Under Colorado’s Revised Non-Compete Law
Effective August 10, 2022, employers who aim to protect business interests by requiring employees in Colorado to sign non-compete and customer non-solicit agreements will face new challenges under amendments to Colorado’s restrictive covenant law. Key provisions include the following: Post-employment non-compete agreements, including customer non-solicitation agreements, are presumed void unless all of the following are […]
COVID-19’S Continuing Workplace Impact: EEOC Revises Pandemic Guidance Again
On July 12, 2022, the EEOC issued updated COVID-19 guidance for employers, reflecting the ever-changing but persistent impact of the virus on the workplace. Key updates include the following: Workplace COVID-19 testing Previously, employers could require COVID-19 testing (although it is a medical exam under the ADA) because the EEOC recognized that a person with […]
Chicago Releases Anti-Harassment Model Language and Poster
By July 1, 2022, Chicago employers must adopt a written policy prohibiting sexual harassment and display the poster detailing the ordinance.
Chicago Expands Anti-Harassment Laws
Beginning July 2022, Chicago will require employers to provide employees with additional training, a new written policy, and a new posted policy on sexual harassment.
Employers Take Note: Updates on Required Federal Forms and Reports
Form 1-9 The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) have extended the flexibility in complying with requirements related to Form I-9 until October 31, 2022. See our earlier blog for more information on how to obtain, remotely inspect, and retain copies of the identity and employment eligibility documents to […]
Spring Cleaning: Is Your Handbook House in Order?
The time has arrived when thoughts turn to warmer weather and spring-cleaning projects. It is a good time for employers to review their employee handbooks to insure they comply with applicable laws and reflect best practices and emerging trends. This spring, a review may be particularly important, as many employers face two key challenges: 1) […]
