What Small Business Employers Need to Know Now On March 30, 2026, the Maryland Department of Labor published final regulations for the Family and Medical Leave Insurance (FAMLI) program at COMAR 09.42. FAMLI, established under the Time to Care Act of 2022, creates a state-run paid family and medical leave insurance program funded by employer…
As we approach election season, it’s crucial for both employers and employees to understand the laws surrounding voting leave. In many states, these laws are in place to ensure that employees can participate in the electoral process without the added stress of work obligations. Here’s a summary of how voting leave works in each of…
Last Updated: August 22, 2024 A federal court has blocked the FTC Non-Compete Ban that was going into effect on September 4, 2024. This means that employers do not need to follow the rule outlined below at this time. However, employers still need to ensure they comply with any state specific rules. Earlier this year,…
Tomorrow, we celebrate the diamond jubilee of The Civil Rights Act (CRA), its 60th anniversary. While the landmark legislation is a cornerstone in the fight for equality in the United States, several of its diversity, equity, and inclusion provisions are less well known. Here’s our quick take on the 11 Titles, or sections, that address…
As we start a New Year, the world is abuzz with talk of New Year’s resolutions and new goals for 2024. What are your business goals for this year? If you need some ideas, we have some suggestions: Employee Handbook Review. Every year, your employee handbook should be reviewed because the law changes every year.…
According to the CDC, about 41% of women and 26% of men experienced contact sexual violence, physical violence, and/or stalking by an intimate partner and reported an intimate partner violence-related impact during their lifetime. Intimate Partner Violence also known as domestic violence is generally understood as physical, emotional, financial, or sexual coercion or abuse occurring…
As we get close to the end of the 2023 third quarter, many businesses and organizations start thinking about next year’s budget. You may not feel ready to think about 2024, but there are several employment laws that will affect you. It is important to plan now so you can ensure compliance later. Here are…
The headlines have been rampant that generative AI is threatening millions of jobs. But we also have the other end of the spectrum of attorneys being sanctioned for relying on generative AI to do their work for them. So, is there a productive role for generative AI in the workplace, in particular the legal field? …
Natasha talks weed at work for DC SHRM. DC SHRM invited Natasha back to cover the hazy world of cannabis in the workplace for the Employment Law Update for 2023. Speaking to a group of executives and human resource professionals from around the DMV, Natasha provided practical advice on how to navigate setting and implementing…
Thirty-eight states and the District of Columbia have legalized adult access to medical and/or recreational cannabis, including Maryland and Virginia. This patchwork of laws poses challenges for employers and workers scrambling to determine how to protect themselves when faced with questions of drug testing, performance, accommodations, leave, and discipline. One thing is clear: an employer…
Employers in the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia area have learned that employment laws are frequently changing. At least annually, employers of all sizes should review their handbook and policies to ensure compliance. Some recent updates include: District of Columbia Non-Compete Restrictions. DC’s non-compete ban went into effect October 1, 2022. DC employers may…
Early settlement remains a top tool for resolving common workplace disputes, including claims of harassment or discrimination. Often, in addition to some type of separation payment or severance package, the “non-monetary terms” – those agreements beyond cash in exchange for a release of claims — sweeten the pot for both parties to settle quickly before becoming embroiled in expensive, time-consuming, and stressful litigation. Employers should be…