Short Takes: Cell Phones
We have a lot of teenagers working here this summer. Does California’s new cell phone law have more stringent restrictions for them than for adults?
Month: August 2008
You’re the Expert: Do You Allow Dogs in the Workplace?
In every issue, we take one reader’s question and ask our other readers to weigh in. Here’s what you had to say about a recent question: We’ve got a few employees who are really lobbying to bring their dogs to work. We see a lot of pros and a lot of cons—what do you think? […]
Benefits: What Do I Need to Know About the Proposed New Disclosure and Reporting Requirements for ERISA Plan Service Providers?
I know some big ERISA regulations are expected to be issued later this year. Where can I go for more information? — Anonymous in Bakersfield The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) plans to release its final regulations on proposed amendments to Section 408(b)(2) of ERISA, the Employee Retirement Income Security Act, later this summer. […]
Hiring: Can I Fire a New Employee Whose Background Check Reveals Pending Criminal Charges?
I ran a background check on an employee I just hired and discovered that she faces serious criminal charges pending a hearing but has not been convicted. Some of the charges (to name a few) are assault in the first and second degree and theft over $500. Technically she didn’t lie on the application because […]
Compensation: How Do We Calculate Premium Pay for Employees with Certifications?
I would like direction on how to determine additional premium pay for employees with certifications, such as a Certified Public Accountant. Is there a general rule or guidance on determining premium pay? I appreciate your help. — Allison in Sacramento Sometimes premium pay is tied to shift work, temporary assignments in other locations, or […]
Hot List: New York Times Bestselling Hardcover Business Books
The following is a list of the bestselling hardcover business books as ranked by the New York Times on August 4. 1. When Markets Collide: Investment Strategies for the Age of Global Economic Change by Mohamed El-Erian. Investing advice for a time of global economic change. 2. The 4-Hour Workweek: Escape 9-5, Live Anywhere, and […]
Is Bizarre Behavior ‘Notice’ for FMLA Purposes?
If an employee openly asks for Family and Medical Leave (FMLA) time off, that’s an easy call to make. But how about bizarre behavior? Does that constitute “notice” of the need for leave? And if so, wouldn’t any misbehavior be notice? Our expert sorts it out. Roy A. Ginsburg, a partner at Dorsey & Whitney […]
Intermittent Leaves: Can a Worker Take Leave to Assist in a Grandchild’s Care?
Can an employee take an intermittent leave to care for a dependent child (under age 18) who is giving birth and then take time to assist in the care of the grandchild for doctor’s appointments and the like? — Alessandra in Marin City To determine what, if any, time off is appropriate in a […]