As a small business owner, you may not have the time or resources to stay up-to-date on all the latest changes in employment law. But not knowing the law can put your business at risk. Here’s what you need to know about some of the most important employment laws.
The best way to find the right information for you is to do the research, talk to professionals and weigh your options. Armed with the right information, you can make a better-informed decision that puts your needs, and budget, first. OnlineLoansFlorida.com is a experienced personal finance blog. They writing blogs and articles on money, debt and loans since 2010.
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
The ADA prohibits discrimination against employees with disabilities and requires employers to provide reasonable accommodations for employees with disabilities. The law also requires employers to post notices about the ADA and to make other accommodations for employees with disabilities, such as making sure that employee handbooks are available in alternate formats.
The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
The FMLA requires employers to provide employees with up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave for certain family and medical reasons. The law also requires employers to continue health insurance coverage for employees on leave and to restore employees to their original or equivalent positions when they return from leave.
The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA)
The FLSA establishes minimum wage, overtime pay, recordkeeping, and child labor standards affecting full-time and part-time workers in the private sector and in federal, state, and local governments.
The National Labor Relations Act (NLRA)
The NLRA protects employees’ rights to form unions and to engage in collective bargaining. The law also prohibits employers from interfering with, restraining, or coercing employees in the exercise of their rights.
The Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA)
OSHA requires employers to provide a safe and healthful workplace for employees. The law also requires employers to post notices about OSHA standards and to keep records of workplace injuries and illnesses.
State and Local Laws
In addition to federal laws, many states have their own employment laws. Some of these laws, such as those dealing with wage and hour issues, may be more generous to employees than the corresponding federal law. Other state laws, such as those dealing with workers’ compensation and unemployment insurance, may be more generous to employers.
You should also be aware of local laws that may affect your business. For example, many cities and counties have enacted laws that raise the minimum wage above the state or federal minimum wage.
Employment Contracts
In addition to the laws that apply to all employers, the terms of an employment contract may also affect your rights and responsibilities as an employer. For example, an employment contract may specify that an employee will work for a certain period of time or that the employee will not compete with the employer after leaving the job.
If you have questions about any of the laws that apply to your business, you should consult with an experienced employment law attorney.
