The Department of Labor pulled a Trump Administration rule that governed how to classify workers as independent contractors. That is a normal action, but the Biden Administration will likely impose the difficult ABC test for independent contractors which would then apply to all workers. So even...
I try to not get very political, but it is unavoidable sometimes. Because I represent small business owners, this legislation could be a real blow to their operations. The PRO Act is legislation that carries significant risk for small business owners, freelancers, and other gig...
The Equal Pay Act exists and was signed into law by President John Kennedy about 58 years ago. For whatever reason, pay discrimination still happens. Spoiler Alert — It is illegal. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NCosrgIFuVo Do you have questions about pay discrimination? Schedule a consultation with #MattTheLawyer or stop by his open office hours...
I take a pretty harsh stance (and recommend employers do the same) on the matter of retaliation against employees who report discrimination or harassment. The short answer is that an employer CANNOT allow a culture of hiding to take root. Retaliation is, in my opinion, worse than...
Tired of mask mandates? Happy that your governor has lifted it in your state? If you are happy take one step forward. Business owners — Not so fast. OSHA (the Occupational Safety and Health Administration) has announced a "national emphasis program" to protect workers in certain...
#MattTheLawyer answers these popular questions in the latest vlog: Can I require employees to get vaccinated in order to come back to the office? (short answer: yes)Can I require employees and customers to wear masks, even though my state has lifted mask mandates? (short answer: yes) Can...
The new American Rescue Plan Act has a few topics that affect small businesses, as #MattTheLawyer explains in the video below: Family First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA): This federal paid leave will remain voluntary through September 30, 2021.If you are going to offer it, it must...
Last week #MattTheLawyer presented at the City of Hyattsville's Business Roundtable. This is a topic that has affected every business this past year. If you missed it don't worry — we've got the recording for you here. Check out the video below starting at 6:45 until 37:50. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9M3ee8yRAC8&feature=emb_logo The...
As your workforce or clients begin to get vaccinated, it is still the company's obligation to keep their workplace safe. OSHA has released suggestions (not a law) about how employers can regulate pandemic-related safety. In this video #MattTheLawyer explains these new recommendations that revolve around creating a...