The start of a new year means new laws and regulations go into effect, many of which concern Massachusetts businesses. If you have a company or you’re in charge of setting and enforcing company policy, it is imperative to conduct a checkup now that 2022 is off to a start. Failing...
Category: Employment Law
Why It’s Essential to Review Employee Policies and Procedures
Employment and labor laws are constantly changing, whether at the federal, state, or even local level. A company’s failure to keep up with and adapt to these changes could mean serious liability and loss of reputation. Creating and adopting an employee policy and procedure handbook is a good first step to...
What’s The Difference Between An Independent Contractor And Employee?
Massachusetts law recognizes several distinctions between independent contractors and employees. Understanding these differences is important because both kinds of workers have their own unique sets of rights. Employers who misclassify their employees could unwittingly expose their companies to legal liability. Does your business work with both independent contractors and regular employees?...
Why Your Business Needs A Social Media Policy
In 2018, a young woman accepted to a NASA internship program posted a profanity-laden celebratory tweet on her Twitter account. Twitter user Homer Hickam responded by simply posting “Language.” That incensed the woman who again posted a profane tweet before being informed that Mr. Hickman is a former NASA engineer and member...
New Laws Taking Effect in Mass. in 2021, Include Minimum Wage Hike
January 2021, Massachusetts
For the year 2021 the State and Federal Governments have announced the following changes affecting employers and employees:
Minimum Wage: Massachusetts minimum wage will increase from $12.75 per hour to $13.50 per hour. This increase continues the changes in the minimum wage in Massachusetts with the ultimate goal of provided...
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Avoiding confusion in your employee handbook
Your employees are an essential resource. When you clearly communicate your policies and expectations, you are more likely to have employees who do excellent work.
Your employee handbook can be a great resource when your employees have questions about company policies. It can help them come to you with specific questions, rather than vague requests....
Four Elements of a Non-Compete that Can Trigger Disputes
Covenants not to compete (Non-Compete) have become increasingly common in recent years. In fact, some argue that they have become too common, adversely affecting the economy and creating unnecessary problems for both employers and employees.
These agreements can be vital to protecting a business' interests as long as they are crafted carefully and used...
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5 Quick Tips for FMLA Compliance
As part of the "Grand Bargain" legislation passed last summer, Massachusetts has a new Paid Family and Medical Leave Act ("PFMLA"). The PFMLA establishes a statewide Department of Family and Medical Leave and the Family and Employment Security Trust Fund ("Trust Fund"). Here are five considerations you should be making ahead of date and...
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Green Grass And High Times?
What Employers Should Know About Recreational Marijuana
As of July 1, 2018, Massachusetts became one of nine (9) states that permits recreational marijuana use. However, under the Massachusetts Marijuana Act, an employer is expressly permitted to prohibit employees from using or being under the influence of marijuana in the workplace. Yet, the Act...