Key Issues for the HR Generalist

Our November 12 half-day program is built especially for both new human resources professionals and more seasoned pros who would like an update on some current hot topics.  We can’t cover everything, but we will provide an overview of the following important issue that every HR generalist needs to know:

Policies - HR policies are the nuts and bolts of HR administration, but they are also a reflection of the values of your organization.  Too often, policies are written and handbooks completed, only to be put on the shelf and generally overlooked until there’s a problem.  This session will explore why policies matter, which policies you most need to have, and which ones you most likely need to change.  In particular, we will look at those policies that relate to current and emerging legal developments: acceptable use, reporting of unlawful or unsafe conduct or conditions, communicable diseases, and compliance-driven issues such as the ACA, ERISA and the NLRA.

Wage & Hour Turmoil - Understanding and complying with state and federal minimum wage and overtime requirements, including job classification and independent contractor status, are among the core responsibilities in any HR department. We’ll provide a refresher on the key basics.  We’ll also take a look at the US Department of Labor’s proposed rule that more than doubles the minimum salary for the white collar overtime exemption, to just over $50,000 per year, and help you understand what you need to do to be ready to comply when the rule takes effect in 2016.  Finally, the City of Portland raised its minimum wage to $10.10 per hour effective January 1, 2016, and Portland voters will decide on November 3 whether to increase it further, to $15.00 per hour, effective July 1, 2017, We will briefly discuss the compliance challenges and enforcement mechanisms employers will soon face. 

LGBTQ Issues in the Workplace  - As state anti-discrimination laws evolve to include protections against sexual orientation discrimination, employers continue to adapt with new policies and practices.  That process continues as same sex marriage and the rights of transgendered employees have emerged as issues requiring employer attention.  We will catch you up on the latest developments, including the need for a fresh look at policies, training, benefits, and facilities.

Paid Sick Leave  - The Massachusetts paid sick leave statute and President Obama’s executive order for federal contractors both require employers to provide paid sick leave to employees.  Compliance is a significant challenge as employers try to apply the new mandates to their policies and their employees.  We will provide tips on who is covered and what must be done to comply.

New Risks with Contingent Workers - The NLRB’s Browning-Ferris decision has created significant uncertainty with regard to when contingent workers may be considered employees.  Every employer that uses temps or agency employees needs to understand the impact of this decision.  We will provide an explanation of the challenge and guidance for employers that use contingent workers.

The program will be followed by a light lunch.  Please arrive before 8:30 so we can be sure to conclude in time for lunch at noon.

There is no cost to attend this program. Please note that there is no webcast of our half-day programs. We want to see you in person!

Please RSVP as space is limited.

If you need to cancel or have any questions, please contact Linda Landry at 207.791.1144 or llandry@pierceatwood.com.