Labor Law Updates

The workers’ compensation system was established to provide benefits to employees who suffer a work-related injury or illness. But many employers are surprised to learn that workers’ comp coverage doesn’t just apply to on-site workers. Remote workers are also typically covered under the laws.

In an unexpected turn of events with the COVID-19 pandemic, the U.S. is facing a major labor shortage. A recent Labor Department Jolt report indicated a record 9.3 million job openings in April 2021, stretching across various industries. But in stark contrast to this figure, new hires increased by only 69,000 … and employers filled just one in 15 new positions.

In early 2020, partially or fully remote workplaces were the exception. But today, due to the unique dynamics surrounding COVID-19 and employee safety concerns, this working arrangement is commonplace. This widespread shift presents a host of compliance challenges, including how to manage posting requirements for hybrid workplaces.

The potential for a new federal minimum wage in 2021 is looking more likely under the current Biden administration.

Foreign language posting requirements have been getting more attention recently based on population growth and the increasing number of people in the United States who speak a language other than English. It’s an area of labor law posting compliance that often gets overlooked, but neglecting foreign language labor poster laws can have serious implications for employers.