Employers

California Shakes Up Employment Laws: Major Changes Ahead for Workers and Employers in 2024 and 2025

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Sacramento, Calif. — A series of new employment laws in California, enacted to enhance protections for workers and set pioneering standards in labor legislation, have commenced this year with additional regulations set to take effect through 2025. These laws are reshaping the landscape of labor rights in sectors ranging from healthcare to the fast-food industry, touching on aspects such as family leave, minimum wage, and anti-retaliation measures. One major update that took effect on January 1, 2024, is Assembly Bill 594, which intensifies state prosecution capabilities for violations of the California Labor Code. Alongside this, … Read more

UK Implements Groundbreaking Legislation Requiring Employers to Proactively Prevent Workplace Harassment

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LONDON — The United Kingdom is taking a significant step forward in workplace safety and inclusivity by instituting new legislation that mandates employers to proactively prevent instances of workplace harassment. This pioneering move aims to shift the focus from reaction to prevention, demanding a more active role from companies in fostering a secure and supportive work environment. Under the new rules, employers will be required to implement comprehensive measures that could significantly decrease the risk of harassment occurring within their workforce. These include but are not limited to thorough training programs, clear and accessible reporting … Read more

Michigan Faces Legal Hurdles as Religious Employers Contest Anti-Discrimination Statutes, Federal Court Decides

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Detroit, MI — In a notable decision, the United States Court of Appeals ruled Tuesday that Michigan must address challenges from religious employers who oppose state anti-discrimination laws that conflict with their religious beliefs. The ruling reinvigorates a debate on the balance between religious freedoms and anti-discrimination protections. Michigan has been at the forefront of expanding protections to prevent bias based on sexual orientation and gender identity. However, the interpretation and application of these laws have stirred concerns among religious groups, who argue that such laws could compel them to act against their faith-based convictions, … Read more

Texas Gains Temporary Reprieve from New Overtime Rule, Rest of U.S. Employers Must Comply

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AUSTIN, Texas — In a significant ruling issued late Friday, the State of Texas has been temporarily exempted from adhering to a new federal overtime regulation that raises the salary threshold for so-called “white-collar” exemptions. The district court’s decision solely affects state employees, leaving private employers in Texas and nationwide required to comply with the scheduled changes. The legal challenge mounted by Texas against the Department of Labor (DOL) centers on the argument that the DOL overstepped its authority with the substantial increase in salary thresholds and the mandate for automatic adjustments every three years. … Read more