If you have not taken a look at your employment policies in some time, there is no better time than the present. Many changes are taking place, including explansion of employee rights and benefits, and re-interpretation of regulatory guidance for employers. Below is a list of important links to keep on hand as you review and update your policies.
Equal Employment Opportunity Commission
Here is a technical resource manual for employers which may be helpful in responding to requests and determining what constitutes a reasonable accommodation:
Americans With Disabilities Act Technical Assistance for Employers
Ensure new hires provide the appropriate documentation to substantiate both the applicant’s identity and employment eligibility. Refer to the U.S. Department of Justice site for the most up-to-date information.
Immigration Reform and Control Act (IRCA)
See also: ICRA forms
Provide training on ethics in the public sector workplace. Refer to the Act when interpreting your ethics policies.
Pennsylvania Public Official and Public Employees Act
Provide training on the PA Worker and Community Right to Know Law. Understand your obligations as an employer under the law.
PA Worker and Community Right to Know Law
Make sure you include a Whistleblower Policy in your handbook. Read the law to better understand your obligations.
Pennsylvania Whistleblower Law
Understand your obligations with respect to allowing employees to inspect their personnel files.
Stay abreast of the DOL’s regulations on overtime. Keep an eye on the FLSA as changes are happening in many areas of regulation.
Application of FLSA to Local Government See 553.22 for compensatory time provisions
Effect of Improper Deductions from Salary
FLSA Training Time Section 785.27
COBRA Rights: legislators continue to expand rights under COBRA. Make sure you check your facts when in question.
The DOL enforces the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) and this law has recently been expanded and re-interpreted, so it is important to make a good faith effort to stay abreast.
Family and Medical Leave Provisions
Military Leave is more relevant and frequent today than in our recent past. Here are a few good resources to help employers comply with the laws and regulations affecting military service members.
PA Military and Veteran Affairs
ESGR (Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve)
Finally, if you are disciplining, remember the golden rule of conducting a Loudermill Hearing. Here is an excellent article by Paul N. Lalley, Esq. and Chad Schnee, Esq.,
Campbell Durrant Beatty Palombo & Miller, P.C.
Conducting the Investigatory Interview
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