A candidate told us they have a disability. What do we need to do?

Answer from Rachel, SHRM-SCP: We recommend asking if they need an accommodation during the application process, but above all, ensure that having this information doesn’t influence your hiring decision. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires employers to...

What is “at-will employment”? Does that mean I can fire an employee for any reason?

Answer from Marisa, SPHR: At-will employment means that the employer or employee can end the employment relationship for almost any reason (with or without cause) at any time (with or without notice). It does not, however, allow you to terminate someone for an illegal...

Vermont Increases Minimum Wage

On January 1, 2023, Vermont’s minimum wage will increase to $13.18 per hour. The minimum base wage for tipped employees will increase to $6.59 per hour. Vermont’s minimum wage applies to employers that have two or more employees. Employers with one employee can...

Massachusetts Law Alert

Massachusetts Increases Minimum Wage and Ends Premium Pay The following wage and hour changes will take effect on January 1, 2023. Minimum Wage Massachusetts’s minimum wage will increase to $15 per hour. The minimum base wage for tipped employees will increase to...

New York Law Alert

New York 2023 New Year Update: Paid Family Leave, COVID Vaccination Leave, and Minimum Wages and Salaries The following changes to New York employment law cover employers of all sizes. PAID FAMILY LEAVE EXPANDED TO COVER SIBLINGS Beginning on January 1, 2023, eligible...

Can I require applicants to have a high school diploma?

Answer from Rachel, SHRM-SCP: We recommend that you not require applicants to have a high school diploma unless you can demonstrate that the requirement is job-related and consistent with business necessity. Requiring a diploma when it’s unrelated to the...