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Policies / Handbooks

4-point checklist clarifies open enrollment

10/10/2013
With key pieces of health care reform going into effect, employers that offer health benefits have even more to consider when implementing this year’s open enrollment. Make the most of your annual benefits sign-up by following this checklist.

The NLRB invalidates employer’s confidentiality rule

10/10/2013
Employers have long believed that they could restrict access to information about wages and benefits so employees couldn’t discuss pay rates, raises and so on. If that’s the case at your workplace, check with your attorney. The prohibition may run afoul of the NLRA, which covers the right to unionize.

Develop foolproof plan for taking uncertainty out of ambiguous resignations

10/10/2013
Not sure what to do when it seems as if an employee is going to quit, but she doesn’t explicitly say so? Seek clarification. If you get none, tell her you assume her silence is tantamount to a resignation.

E-cigarettes: A burning new HR issue

10/08/2013
Sooner or later, one of your employees is going to “power up” an e-cigarette in your workplace. These trendy, battery-powered devices give the user a sense of smoking by inhaling a nicotine mist. So, is this truly considered “smoking” and can you set a company policy?

How state’s new trade-secret law protects Texas businesses

10/02/2013
The Texas Uniform Trade Secrets Act (TUTSA) took effect on Sept. 1. Trade secrets have long received protection under Texas common law. However, TUTSA gives companies additional safeguards and expands the legal remedies to address harm when a former employee misappropriates trade secrets.

11th Commandment: If employee truly believes, thou shalt accommodate

09/30/2013
When an employee cites her religion as a reason she can’t abide by a company rule or requirement, it’s not up to the you to judge the validity of that belief. As long as it’s a sincerely held belief, employers have to look for a reasonable accommodation that meets the employee’s needs.

How can we make sure Halloween party costumes don’t cross the line?

09/27/2013
Q. We would like to throw a Halloween party for our employees during working hours. Many want to wear costumes. Should we have a costume dress code? We are worried some employees may go too far.

What legal issues affect workplace dress codes?

09/27/2013
Q. We have been contemplating developing a dress code. What kinds of legal issues do we need to consider?

Appeals court refuses arbitration bid, cites one-sided, coercive agreement

09/27/2013
A California appellate court has invalidated an arbitration agreement on the grounds that it was unconscionable. The court said it was both one-sided and oppressive.

Keep it neat! You can restrict facial hair

09/27/2013
Private employers have the right to set their own dress and grooming codes. Within limits, that includes restricting an employee’s facial hair and insisting on a clean-shaven face unless an employee can’t shave because of a documented medical condition or religious requirement.