Since New York State has updated its model sexual harassment policy, it’s a good time to revisit your employee handbook and policies to ensure you are compliant with the most current rules and regulations.
Ali Law Group is available to help if you have questions. The HRtelligence subscription service also provides actionable information on these topics and more. For example, in our webinars this month, we are covering the proper classification of employees, updates to New York State’s sexual harassment model policy, and practical tips for employee handbooks and policies.
New York State Updates Its Model Sexual Harassment Policy and Training Materials
On April 11, 2023, New York State released updated versions of the New York State Sexual Harassment Model Policy and training materials. In addition to a new model policy, the State has updated its Frequently Asked Questions and provided a new toolkit for workers and employers, as well as a new training slide deck and accompanying script for employers. Read more.
Reminder: The Providing Urgent Maternal Protections for Nursing Mothers Act (PUMP Act) Enforcement Provisions Effective April 28, 2023
Federal law requires employers to provide employees with reasonable break time to express breast milk for one year after the child’s birth and a place to do so, other than a bathroom, that is shielded from view and free from intrusion from co-workers and the public. However, the law only applied to certain employees. The PUMP Act now amends the FLSA to expand access to all employees. The PUMP Act was effective immediately, while the law’s enforcement provisions are effective April 28, 2023. Read more.
New York City Issues Final Regulations for Automated Employment Decision Tool Law and Defers Enforcement to July 5, 2023
On April 6, 2023, the DCWP issued final regulations regarding the New York City Automated Employment Decision Tools Law (“AEDTL”). Pursuant to the law, employers must conduct automated decision tool audits to confirm that such tools are not biased. The new law went into effect on January 1, 2023, but the New York City Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (“DCWP”) deferred enforcement of the regulation to April 15, 2023. Enforcement of the law has now been further extended until July 5, 2023. Read more.
Upcoming Events
May 10th | 8:00PM
Classification of Workers: Independent Contractor or Employee?
This webinar will explore the requirements – and consequences – for classifying workers as employees or independent contractors. Many employers falsely assume that it’s a simple matter of choice, but it isn’t. This webinar will familiarize you with Federal and State law requirements that will guide you in the proper classification and compensation of your workforce. We will highlight what organizations can do to remain in safe harbor to protect their team, business, and Independent Contractors. Learn more.
May 16th | 12:30PM
New York State New Sexual Harassment Model Policy
New York State has released updated versions of the New York State Sexual Harassment Model Policy and training materials. There are major revisions to the model policy that employers should be aware of, including: additional examples of sexual harassment, discrimination, and retaliation that illustrate how issues can occur even with employees working remotely and on virtual platforms; and further emphasis on gender-based harassment and discrimination that can include conduct beyond sexual contact or sexually suggestive conduct, including stereotyping or treating employees differently because they identify as cisgender, transgender, or nonbinary. It’s important that employers are familiar with the major revisions to the model policy and training and that policies and training materials are updated to be in compliance. Learn more.
May 24th | 8:30AM
Practical Tips for Employee Handbooks and Policies
Employee Handbooks are essential for employers in today’s litigious environment. They are the number one most important tool that an employer can have to protect itself from future liability. In order to respond to the continuous demand for information about what’s new in employee handbooks, we review the latest on what new topics can and should be included in your handbook, and those existing sections which may need refreshing. Learn more.
June 6th | 11:00am – 6:00PM
The Collaborate with Edge (CWE) Leadership Conference
HRtelligence is proud to sponsor the CWE Leadershp conference which inspires women’s advancement, leadership equity, and encourages belonging. CWE provides a platform that fosters professional growth, expands leadership skills, and cultivates an inclusive network. Learn more.
June 7th | 8:00AM
Understanding Leave Laws and Effectively Managing Employee Leaves
Leave management can be complex and confusing for any employer. Between the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and the various state leave laws, many employers have a hard time keeping up with all the requirements. In this webinar, we’ll examine key regulations, common issues, and employer best practices to help ensure that you’re taking the appropriate steps when it comes to managing employee leaves. Learn more.