Although gaining more media recognition, pregnancy discrimination remains a prominent issue in today’s workplace environment. Both federal and New York State laws extend protections to pregnant employees. Continue reading “Laws Protecting Pregnant Employees in New York”
Category: Employment Law
Employer-Sponsored Insurance Costs Continue to Rise in New York
One of the biggest benefits a business can offer its staff is an employer-sponsored insurance plan. According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, employer-sponsored health insurance plans benefit as many as 152 million people in the U.S. Unfortunately, many New York businesses and workers are facing the harsh reality of rising insurance costs, which are far outpacing that of employees’ wages. Continue reading “Employer-Sponsored Insurance Costs Continue to Rise in New York”
What to Consider in a Non-Disclosure Agreement
No matter what type of business one may have, protecting the business’ confidential information is crucial. Whether it be during the initial startup, bringing in investors, or in conducting other commercial matters, there are many ways a business’ confidential information can be exposed. One way to limit the release of confidential information is through the use of a non-disclosure agreement (NDA). A good practice for any business is to have each individual sign a non-disclosure agreement before speaking about a possible business relationship. Such an agreement will help prevent them from disclosing or using your information while also allowing you to speak openly with them. Continue reading “What to Consider in a Non-Disclosure Agreement”
Reduce Business Liability at the Holiday Party
The holiday season is upon us and many businesses choose this time of year to celebrate workplace achievements and express gratitude to employees for their contributions. Although holiday parties are customary to some businesses, others are choosing to forgo these festive traditions in fear of legal liabilities stemming from alcohol use, injuries, and harassment. For businesses that choose to have a holiday party, it is important to take measures to minimize risk and promote safety. Continue reading “Reduce Business Liability at the Holiday Party”
Restrictive Covenants in the Medical Industry
Restrictive employment covenants are typically disfavored by law, as they can be burdensome to the employee and prohibit them from making a decent living after the termination of a former job. However, restrictive covenants in the medical industry are highly enforceable in some ways.
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Choosing the Right Classification of Worker for Your Business
Starting a new business or joining a currently existing business can bring a few challenges. One challenge that arises comes from the hiring process. There are multiple types of workers that can work for you. These can include Full-time Employees, Part-time Employees, Interns, and Independent Contractors. Continue reading “Choosing the Right Classification of Worker for Your Business”
Proposed New York City Legislation Seeks to End Requirement of After-Hours Work Communications
Do employees have the right to disconnect? Rafael Espinal, a New York City council member from Brooklyn, thinks so. On March 22, 2018, Councilman Espinal introduced a bill that would make it illegal for employers to require employees to access work-related communications when they are off duty, on vacation, using personal days, or off sick. These communications can include, but not limited to, emails, text messages, and instant messenger services. Continue reading “Proposed New York City Legislation Seeks to End Requirement of After-Hours Work Communications”
What Employers Need to Know About New York’s Anti-Discrimination Laws
New York employees are protected against employment discrimination under federal, state and local laws. Several federal laws extend protection against discrimination to employees. The most prominent law is Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Title VII). Title VII prohibits employers from discriminating against employees based on sex, race, color, national origin, and religion. Both the New York State Human Rights Law (NYSHRL) and the New York City Human Rights Law (NYCHRL) extend employee protections to more categories than federal law. Continue reading “What Employers Need to Know About New York’s Anti-Discrimination Laws”
NY Paid Family Leave to Apply to All Private Businesses, Regardless of Size
On January 1, 2018, New York State’s Paid Family Leave Benefits Law (PFL) will go into effect. Under the legislation, PFL will be a mandatory benefit in New York that will provide paid time off to employees to bond with their new child, care for a seriously ill loved one, or to address family issues that may arise due to a qualifying military exigency, while protecting their employment. PFL is designed to phase in over four years, increasing annually in weeks available and max percentage of average weekly wage. Continue reading “NY Paid Family Leave to Apply to All Private Businesses, Regardless of Size”
Job Applicant’s Salary History Off the Table in the Interview Process
Recently, Mayor Bill de Blasio signed a bill into law that prohibits all New York City employers from inquiring about a job applicant’s salary history. The bill, Intro 1253, is an expansion of the Mayor’s original Executive Order 21 that was signed in November 2016 and includes both private and public employers. According to Mayor de Blasio this legislation seeks to combat the discriminatory pre-hiring procedures that negatively impact women and minorities. Continue reading “Job Applicant’s Salary History Off the Table in the Interview Process”
