Author: Juliet S. Burgess, Founding Partner, The Burgess Law Group

Steps to Take Before Installing Video Surveillance at Work

Question:         We plan to install security cameras in the production area of our nonunion food packaging facility because of an increase in damaged product and safety incidents. Can we post signs at all entrances stating surveillance cameras are in use, or do we need to have each employee sign a waiver? Answer:   Generally, you may monitor […]

Back to the Salt Mines: Not a Veiled Antiunion Threat

President Joe Biden has made clear he intends to be “the most pro-union president you’ve ever seen.” The National Labor Relations Board’s (NLRB) recent initiatives under the direction of General Counsel (GC) Jennifer Abruzzo are definitely in line with the administration’s pro-union regulatory agenda. Abruzzo has recently targeted what employers may communicate regarding unionization. What […]

SCOTUS Abortion Ruling Raises Complex Policy Problems for Employers

A number of high-profile companies are speaking out against the U.S. Supreme Court’s (SCOTUS) decision overruling Roe v. Wade, and they are backing up their criticism by vowing to help employees wishing to travel for legal abortions. But employers taking such action may face tricky legal issues.

SHRM 2022 Recap: HR’s New Role in the World of Work

The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) hosted its annual conference and expo in New Orleans June 12–15. HR professionals, executives, managers, and students gathered from all over the country to connect and learn together. Over 200 sessions provided expert industry insight on recruiting, career growth, HR technology, diversity and inclusion strategies, leadership skills, and […]

‘I Got Fired . . . But I Still Want My Commissions’

Although it involves Texas law, a recent case illustrates the pitfalls an employer can face when former employees make claims for commissions or compensation after their employment has ended. It also offers suggestions on how employers with commissioned salespeople can avoid the same traps.

It’s Party Time! Can Employers Deduct Costs for Internal Networking Events?

In 2020, the employer-employee relationship was forever altered. The COVID-19 outbreak disrupted industries, halted travel, and changed the way employees work. Employers have been forced to adapt to a tight employment market and workers’ needs. Some companies have decided to offer remote work opportunities and flexible schedules. With work from home becoming the norm, employers […]

Want Workers to Return to the Office? Try Making It Greener

Amid a heightened war for talent among companies post-pandemic, U.S. employees have higher expectations for green office spaces and want their employers to make eco-friendly practices a priority, according to new research. Hygiene and health company Essity recently conducted a survey of workers who have returned to the office at least part-time and found that the vast […]

Using Artificial Intelligence Hiring Tools May Lead to Disability Discrimination

Employers using artificial intelligence (AI) to evaluate job applicants and employees may run afoul of laws prohibiting discrimination against people with disabilities, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) recently warned. If your business is relying on that increasingly common technology, be sure it isn’t having a disparate impact […]

Coming Soon to a Store Near You: Union Organizing Campaign

After years of declining membership, unions are redoubling their efforts to sell their product (membership) to new customers. While they have long targeted grocery stores like Kroger and SuperValu, they are now moving into the so-called “new economy” by zeroing in on employers like Amazon and Starbucks.

How to Create Effective Employment Offer Letters

Good news! During these times of challenging recruitment, a viable applicant seems interested in your business. What’s the next step to set the hook? A job offer letter serves many purposes. It should enhance the candidate’s interest in the opening and protect your company against claims that it misrepresented the employment opportunity. The letter also […]