On April 3, 2020, the CDC recommended that Americans wear masks in offices, stores, restaurants and in all public places. The adjustment for employer, employees and patrons was significant, but because it was mandated, at least in New York, most citizens complied, and it soon became the norm in society. Last week, on May 13,…
MINIMUM WAGE INCREASE Effective December 31, 2020, New York State minimum wage has increased once again. The present minimum wages are as follows: • New York City $15.00 per hour • Long Island and Westchester $14.00 per hour • Rest of…
The Coronavirus is now the hot topic of conversation that has not only swept through American households, it is also a major concern for employers. Employers have been asking two central questions as the disease appears to be spreading: (1) How do I protect my employees from possibly contracting the virus; and (2) What are…
Every new year brings significant changes to New York’s labor and employment laws that employers must be aware of to protect themselves from potential exposure from Department of Labor audits, private lawsuits and other employment-related problems. Minimum Wage Increases New York State has increased the minimum wage each year for the past 4 years. For…
Just when you thought you were done updating your employment policies for the year, New York passes more employment laws. It has been an active 2019 with a host of recent legislation imposing additional obligations and potential liability on employers. Here is a summary of the most significant changes: Sexual harassment. In addition to last…
Are you ready for “gotcha” claims? That’s where someone deliberately goes looking for companies to sue for violating a law. For example, a client recently received a letter from an attorney claiming that they had violated the Fair Chance Act of New York City (“FCA”) and seeking $3,000 in fines, penalties and legal fees. Under…
The “Me Too” movement has sparked discussions about how people treat each other in the workplace. While the “Me Too” movement primarily relates to sexual harassment in the workplace, employers must also be cognizant of the growing issue of violence/bullying that not only exists in workplace settings, but is as frequent and consequential as sexual…
The new year brings new changes to employment laws enacted by the legislatures in New York State, New York City and Long Island. The more employers know about their obligations, the less risk of liability they face. The following is a summary of the new rules: New York State Paid Leave Changes This law went…
