Categories for Human Resources

non-compete

9 FAQs About Washington’s New Non-Compete Restrictions

by | September 3, 2019

We previously posted an article about the new non-compete legislation in Washington that was expected to be signed into law. Since that original article was posted, the bill was in fact signed and Washington employers should begin preparing for the new rules to take effect on January 1, 2020. But what do employers really need... View Article

Business Coffee

Top 5 Business Areas to Focus and Plan for 2019

by | December 3, 2018

Although we are often distracted at this time of year by fun family gatherings, vacation time, and holiday cheer and events, businesses often take this time to ensure they are ready to start the new year strong.  Below are several areas we suggest businesses evaluate as they plan for a successful year: Financial goals.  Your... View Article

PFMLA OFfering

New Washington’s Paid Family Medical Leave

by | December 3, 2018

Beginning January 1, 2019, Washington state will join the small group of states mandating paid family and medical leave (“PFML”) for Washington state employees.  Here are some of the key questions our clients are asking:  What is the purpose of the law?  Is our business required to collect the employer and employee premiums and implement... View Article

Happy Children

Paid Family Leave Program Premiums begin Jan 1st – Employers, are you ready?

by | November 12, 2018

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

When is a Company Required to Pay Interns?

by | September 21, 2018

Internships offer additional benefits to employers, namely recruiting and grooming talent for future employment in the organization. The question is: when is a company required to pay interns? There is a common misconception these individuals do not need to be compensated for their work if they are classified as interns. The misclassification of employees as... View Article

Construction Industry

Physical Abilities Testing: Four Guidelines to Minimize Scrutiny

by | September 17, 2018

Physical Abilities Tests (PAT) can be a useful tool for employers that seek ideal workers for physically demanding jobs. However, a biased test could cost your business millions in investigations, charges, and lawsuits. Just earlier this year, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) filed two cases of female discrimination that cost the respective companies $2.5... View Article

Equinox Blog Season

Family, the Workplace, and Government Regulation

by | September 4, 2018

September has arrived and those with kids are getting back into the school routine.  Your employee’s schedules and mindsets may have shifted to new schedules and priorities.  For many, these shifts are subtle – maybe a day off or a slightly later start time – while for others the preparation for back to school creates... View Article

Key tips to performing workplace investigations.

10 Key Points Regarding Workplace Investigations

by | June 27, 2018

Clients often ask us should we investigate a complaint filed by an employee even if it has no validity and, if so, how should we do it. In today’s environment of increased scrutiny of sexual harassment, race, gender discrimination and other claims, every complaint should be addressed and potentially investigated. Here’s a quick summary of... View Article

Amendments to Seattle Paid Sick and Safe Time

by | December 26, 2017

As the effective date of Statewide Paid Sick and Safe time quickly approaches, I have had several clients say to me, “We are covered by Seattle Sick and Safe, so we don’t have to worry.” This isn’t true for two reasons: 1) Just because you are covered by Seattle (or another city ordinance requiring paid... View Article