Author: Savanna L. Shuntich, Attorney, FortneyScott

Federal Government Takes Steps Toward Regulating Artificial Intelligence

Because of the complexities and wide-ranging effects of artificial intelligence (AI), the Biden administration and Congress have cautiously approached regulating the technology. At this juncture, it isn’t clear which administrative agency and/or legislators will take the lead on regulating AI in the workplace at the federal level. However, there are recent developments in the form […]

NCAA Settlement Roils College Athletics . . . and Union Organizing

A landmark $2.8 billion settlement announced by the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) in an antitrust class action filed by former college athletes reportedly sets a path for schools to share revenue with players. Although many of the details of the settlement haven’t been made public and the judge has yet to approve it, many […]

Ask the Expert: When Can a Former Employee See Their Personnel Files?

Question: A former employee who was fired has requested a copy of her personnel file. What documents would she be entitled to receive? Answer: Massachusetts General Laws Ch. 149, §52C outlines what constitutes a personnel file and discusses an employer’s duty to retain that file. The statute further provides a formal process for employees to […]

discrimination

Case Study: Harassment and Discrimination Aren’t Rocket Science

Disability-related claims can take many forms, under many statutes. Here, a National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) scientist claims he was both harassed and discriminatorily denied a promotion because of his disability. The court of appeal used two different standards to decide that part of his claim can proceed, and part could not go forward. Scientist […]

Excited About the Potential of AI? Don’t Forget Legal Compliance

Artificial intelligence (AI) isn’t just creating buzz. It’s also sparking both fear and enthusiasm, with some employers worried about the downsides and others eager to dive in and capitalize on the potential. No matter how it’s viewed, though, employers must focus on how this brave new world intersects with legal compliance. Guidance from the DOL […]

A Voice for the Underrepresented: Wally Tablit’s Impact as Chief Disability Inclusion Officer 

Wally Tablit’s career journey in the field of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) is a testament to resilience, diversity, and the power of inclusion. As the Chief Disability Inclusion Officer at Relay Resources, Tablit has dedicated his career to advocating for equitable opportunities and fostering inclusive environments. His rich personal and professional background brings a […]

onboarding

3 Components of an Above-and-Beyond Onboarding Experience

When it comes to filling open roles within your company, finally getting a “yes” from a potential candidate can feel like the end of a long road. After all, you’ve probably been recruiting for a while—crafting the job description, casting a wide net, searching for top talent, networking, fielding resumes, and giving multiple interviews all […]

Workplace Distractions: The Subtle Thieves of Efficiency and Output

The contemporary office is a minefield of mental bombardment—email alerts incessantly dinging, instant messages demanding immediate response, back-to-back meetings depleting focus, and water cooler banter punctuating every lull. Distractions lurk around every digital corner, making monotasking near impossible. This relentless onslaught of stimuli can quickly induce overstimulation. When deluged with excessive sensory input, the brain […]

Making DOL’s Overtime Rule Changes Make Cents

On April 23, 2024, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) issued its highly anticipated final rule that will raise the standard minimum salary level needed for most white-collar exempt employees on July 1, 2024, and then increase it again beginning January 1, 2025. The final rule will also increase the total compensation minimum for highly […]

Ask the Expert: What Time Is Considered Compensable?

Question: What’s considered compensable time during the onboarding process under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA)—for example, time completing paperwork before the start date, as well as time reviewing policies and procedures and completing training? Answer: Under the FLSA, employees must be compensated for all working time. Even if the employer didn’t specifically request that […]