Bulletins

New York has passed an expansive law to legalize recreational cannabis (a.k.a. marijuana). The law, called the Marijuana Regulation and Tax Act, includes strong employment protections for off-duty use, effective immediately. The law adds cannabis to New York’s existing lawful off-duty conduct law but carves out a few exceptions. As a refresher, the lawful off-duty […]

New York now requires employers of all sizes to provide paid leave to employees who are getting vaccinated for COVID-19. The law took effect immediately and applies through December 31, 2022. Employees are entitled to take up to four hours of paid leave each time they get a COVID shot. For now, this means up […]

The American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), which is the latest bill to address the ongoing economic impacts of COVID-19, has been signed into law effective 3/11/2021. Most aspects of the law do not directly affect the HR function, but those that do—optional extension of sick and family leave and establishment of COBRA subsidies—are outlined below. […]

On Monday, December 21, Congress passed a new $900 billion COVID stimulus bill (known as the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021). The legislation is aimed at helping Americans cope with challenges from the pandemic. Along with stimulus payments and other financial provisions, the bill also includes modified carryover and dependent rules for Dependent Care Assistance Plan (DCAP) benefits, […]

A new $900 billion coronavirus relief bill became law and answers the question of whether federal Emergency Paid Sick Leave (EPSL) and Emergency Family and Medical Leave (EFMLA) will be extended. The answer is yes, but it’s an option, not a requirement. Here’s what employers need to know: Offering EPSL and EFMLA after December 31st […]