State of Maine Minimum Wage to Increase on January 1, 2020
As of January 1, 2020, the minimum wage for the state of Maine will rise to $12 per hour. Tipped employees or those that receive direct cash compensation will see an increase from $5.50 per hour to $6 her hour, and salaried employees will see a minimum salary level...
How to handle Increased Employee Complaints
Question: We’ve seen an uptick in complaints from employees. Is this cause for concern? Answer: The mere fact that you’re getting more complaints than normal isn’t necessarily something to worry about. The increase in complaints could be a sign that there are now more...
Can We Reduce Risks of Termination by Calling it a Layoff?
Question: Does presenting a termination as a layoff reduce the risk of an unlawful termination claim? We have a new manager who’s not performing well that we want to let go.Answer from Kim, SPHR, SHRM-SCP:No. In fact, it could create more risk. If the...
Can We Ask an Employee About a Medical Condition They May Have?
Question:We’ve heard from staff that one of our employees suffers from chronic back pain. We’re concerned that this employee’s job duties may be aggravating their condition. Can we ask them about this? Answer from Margaret, PHR, SHRM-CP: No. Unless you...
Can We Ask An Applicant Why They Are Leaving Their Current Job?
Question: Can we ask an applicant why they are leaving their current job?Answer from Kyle, PHR:Yes. While it’s fine to ask this question during the interview, we recommend you collect this information ahead of time by asking about it on an employment...
Can I Modify an Employee’s Time Sheet?
The Fair Labor Standards Act requires that you keep accurate records of nonexempt employees' hours worked. As a result, you developed a timekeeping system. However, there may be times when your employees' time sheets need to be adjusted. Are you allowed to...
DOL Issues New Overtime Ruling Effective January 2020
The Department of Labor has announced the new minimum salary for certain exempt white collar employees, effective January 1, 2020.Exempt Executive, Administrative, Professional and Computer Employees (EAP)As of January 1, 2020, salaried exempt EAP...
Six Steps To Hiring H-1B Visa Workers
Are you considering hiring H-1B Visa workers? The H-1B visa program permits U.S. employers to temporarily hire foreign workers in specialty occupations. The law currently limits the number of H-1B visas that can be issued annually.To hire an H-1B worker,...
Do We Have To Pay Employees For Required Training?
Question: Our Employees are required to attend sexual harassment prevention training. Do we need to pay for their time at training?Answer from Eric, SPHR, SHRM-SCPIf an employer requires attendance at a training, then it generally must be paid. While state...
Closing For Inclement Weather? Are You Required To Pay Employees For This Time?
Question:If our company closes due to inclement weather, are we required to pay employees? Can we require PTO use?Answer from Kelley, PHR:The answer depends on whether the employees are exempt or non-exempt under the Fair Labor Standards Act. Exempt...