Construction employment dropped by 7,000 between May and June, and the industry still employs 238,000 fewer people than before the pandemic, according to an analysis of government data by the Associated General Contractors of America. Association officials said that job losses in the…
Factory Output Rises More Than Forecast
Production at factories increased in October by more than anticipated, bouncing back from the effects of Hurricane Ida and suggesting manufacturers are better dealing with materials shortages. The 1.2% rise in manufacturing production followed a 0.7% drop in September, according to the U.S….
Philadelphia Ban on Prehire Marijuana Testing Takes Effect on Jan. 1
Philadelphia’s “Prohibition on Testing for Marijuana as a Condition for Employment” is set to take effect on Jan. 1, 2022. The ordinance states that it will be unlawful for an employer, labor organization, or employment firm to require a prospective employee to submit to pre-employment marijuana…
The Advantages of Using Legal Counsel in HR Matters
There are a number of benefits associated with the use of legal counsel by human resource departments and in-house counsel on HR matters. These include protecting sensitive and potentially damaging information from disclosure under the rules of attorney-client privilege and the attorney work…
46 Percent of Job Seekers Use ChatGPT to Write Their Résumés or Cover Letters
One in two current and recent job seekers have used ChatGPT to write their résumés or cover letters, according to a survey of 1,000 respondents who have used ChatGPT during the job application process. Of the 1,000 respondents who admitted to using ChatGPT for their application materials, 72% say…
Politics in the Workplace: Beware of Laws Protecting Political Affiliations and Opinions
Employers should be aware of laws that protect employees in their exercise of political rights. In California, for instance, Labor Code Sections 1101 and 1102 prohibit employers from attempting to control or direct the political activities or affiliations of their employees. Employers also are…
Kansas City Fed: Manufacturing Activity Fell
Manufacturing activity in the Plains states declined moderately in April, while expectations for future activity remained positive, according to the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City. The month-to-month composite index was -10 in April, down from 0 in March and February. All month-to-month…
Cal/OSHA Reminds Employers to Protect Workers From Heat Illness During Period of High Heat
The California Division of Occupational Safety and Health (called Cal/OSHA) is reminding all employers to protect workers from heat illness ahead of forecasts of high temperatures. Employers in California must take steps to protect outdoor workers from heat illness by providing water, rest, shade…
Best Practices for Navigating Legal and Political Guardrails Impacting Employer DEIA Efforts
There are several best practices employers should follow when developing diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility initiatives. They should understand any laws governing DEIA efforts and how they affect a company’s related training materials, policies, and procedures, and develop a plan that…
Lost in Translation? Challenges and Solutions for HR Communications
Human resource professionals can ensure accurate translation of sensitive information by working with experienced translators who are proficient in the target language and knowledgeable about HR terminology and legal requirements. Additionally, maintaining confidentiality and adhering to data…