Over the last two decades, obesity levels in the United States have been on the rise along with a growing concern of discrimination based on weight in the workplace. As a result, states and local governments are starting to take action. In Washington, it is therefore illegal for employers to refuse to hire qualified potential employees because the employer perceives them to be obese.
The Long-Term Care Act, passed in May of 2019, mandates a new uncapped 0.58% payroll tax on employee wages. The tax will create a Long-Term Care Trust Fund to fund the Long-Term Services and Support Trust Program. The program will help supplement long-term care costs, such as assisted living expenses. While the program’s specifics are... View Article
On July 1, 2020, the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (“L&I”) updated the criteria for an exempt employee. These workers may include executive, administrative, and professional employees, as well as outside salespeople and computer professionals. Washington’s overtime exemption rules generally require these “white-collar” employees to meet a three-part test to be exempt: the... View Article
Since remote work has become routine for businesses, managers may be leading dispersed employees who live across the country. What do employers need to do if an employee decides to move out of state? What should employers consider when hiring remote, out-of-state employees? Here are some proactive considerations: Look before you leap Generally, having an... View Article
A common belief is that employees are the business’s greatest asset and greatest liability. While employees are critical to business success, being an employer is becoming more complex by the day. One area of concern, which can become very expensive if not done correctly, is employee pay. Failure in properly paying your employees can potentially... View Article
Over the past few years, the emphasis on employee engagement and happiness has been forefront in the business news and best practices. And though more companies are realizing Ping-Pong tables aren’t essential for workplace happiness, there’s certainly value in creating a ‘fun’ work environment to boost employee engagement. Whether your company’s incentives are fun or financial... View Article
Rideshare companies Lyft and Uber have announced stock ownership opportunities for their drivers as part of their IPOs this spring. In an effort to build driver loyalty, the programs offer the drivers cash bonuses that allow them to subscribe to shares of the company’s stock in advance of the IPO. This is an unusual structure... View Article
By Tom Ovendale, Principle, and Bob Gruber, Founder, The Rainier Group. Deferred compensation can be a valuable tool in helping CEOs accomplish their employee retention and incentive objectives. Retirement plans, pension plans, and stock-option plans can all aid in making employment opportunities attractive for recruiting. Unfortunately, many deferred compensation plans fail to deliver the desired... View Article
Washington’s Employment Security Department (ESD) has finalized its second round of rulemaking regarding the State’s new Paid Family Leave Program. These rules provide additional information on employer reporting requirements, voluntary Paid Family Leave program requirements, deadlines, small business assistance, and other issues. The rules will take effect on December 3, 2018. Premium collection will begin... View Article
