Key Compliance Topics HR Leaders Need To Be Aware Of

Each and every day, organizations have to navigate serious issues that could have a major impact on business if not navigated promptly and correctly. These often coincide with compliance.

Compliance not only relates to human resource (HR) officers but everyone in a company. However, HR handles most issues with compliance including employee retention, hiring, payroll and benefit packages. Members of HR often wear multiple hats and must keep up with trends and changes that are occurring.

The list below highlights four key topics that HR professionals must stay up to date on:

• Hours Worked and Fair Pay

Keeping accurate records and payroll not only benefits the company but also the employee. If employee records are not kept up to date, it could cost the employer millions of dollars in a court case. Staying up to date and changing policies as needed helps control liability.

Members of HR must follow The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). The FLSA is a federal law that sets standards businesses must follow such as overtime, minimum wage and age requirements to join the workforce. It is vital that members of HR understand and uphold this law not only for the business’s sake, but for employees as well.

• Family and Medical Laws

Most everyone has heard of the Family and Medical Leave Act or FMLA. The purpose of the law is to guarantee an employee up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave without the fear of losing their job. This law is often used by expecting mothers for maternity leave however, it can be utilized in many other situations as well.

While on FMLA leave, employees continue to receive employer sponsored health benefits just like if they were working. Because of the intricacies surrounding the federal law there are many questions that come with it such as:

1. How does one qualify for FMLA?
2. What is the best way to offer notice to employees?
3. How should a designation letter be issued?
4. Why and when would an employee extend their leave?
5. What needs to happen when the employee returns from leave?

• Harassment in the Workplace

Employee safety and well being are top priority for HR professionals. Employees want and need to feel that they are safe at work. Harassment trainings are often mandated by states to ensure employees know what to do or how to handle harassment in the workplace. HR must make sure employees are safe as well as being in line with regulatory and legal requirements.

• Health and Well Being of Employees

It is well known that job satisfaction and efficiency go hand and hand. If an employee feels appreciated and confident in their work, they are more likely to be happier in their role. This is especially important to keep in mind since the work from home shift and the start of the Great Resignation.

 

Health and wellness programs supported by the employer is a great way for employees to feel like they are taken care of and that their employer cares. However, doing so also can present challenges with ERISA, FMLA, COBRA and others.

 

The information in this blog post is for educational purposes only. It is not investment, legal or tax advice. For legal or tax advice, you should consult your own counsel. To stay up to date on benefits trends and insights, subscribe to our blog.