How Important is an Updated Employee Handbook?

Does your employee handbook have a coating of dust on it? Was it last printed in 2008? If so, it’s probably time for an update. This important company asset is distributed to new employees during their onboarding and orientation, but it may be beneficial to you and...

Is there a downside to screening the social media accounts of job candidates?

Question:  Is there a downside to screening the social media accounts of job candidates? Answer from Kyle, PHR: There can be downsides, yes. First, screening social media accounts creates extra risk. You could be exposed to information about a candidate’s protected...

COVID-19 Relief Bill: Tax Credits for Paid Leave Extended to March 31

A new $900 Billion coronavirus relief bill became law and answers the question of whether federal Emergency Paid Sick Leave (EPSL) and Emergency Family and Medical Leave (EFMLA) will be extended. The answer is yes, but it’s an option not a requirement. Here’s what...

Can a non-exempt employee manage another non-exempt employee?

Question: Can a non-exempt employee manage another non-exempt employee? Answer from Kyle, PHR: Yes, it is completely fine for non-exempt employees to manage other non-exempt employees. In fact, employers are under no obligation to classify any employees as exempt,...

Maine Law Alert: 2021 Earned Paid Leave and Minimum Wage

Minimum Wage On January 1, 2021, Maine’s minimum wage will increase to $12.15 per hour. The tipped employee direct wage will increase to $6.08 per hour. Earned Paid Leave Starting on January 1, 2021, employers that have 11 or more employees working in Maine must...

I’ve heard it said that termination always comes with risk. What does that mean?

Answer from Kyle, PHR: It means there’s always a risk that a terminated employee could make an issue of the termination, claiming that it was discriminatory or based on some other illegal reason. (There’s also the risk that they will bad-mouth your organization on the...