Volume 21 | August 2022
HR & the Law in the News
When Industry Experts (Allegedly) Get it Wrong

In one week, I read two headlines about lawsuits filed against the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). As a former member for nearly 25 years, these caught my attention. SHRM proclaims to be “the foremost expert, convener and thought leader on issues impacting today’s evolving workplaces.” It seems not everyone agrees.
Close up of businessman hands breaking employment contract. Boss dismissing an employee. Bankruptcy redundancy and getting fired concept. Employee losing job or failing interview. Human resources
Consider How You Sign What You Sign

The Electronic Signatures in Global and National Commerce or E-Sign Act was signed into law by on June 30, 2020. Since then, electronic signatures have been a common workplace practice in on-boarding, orientation, and employment practices, generally.

So, what do you do when an employee declares an electronic signature is not hers?
Beware of danger concept icon shows hazards and risks. Pay attention on the road and be careful - 3d illustration
COVID-19 Corner #1
I actually thought this series was done. Not so! Here is the first of two recent updates. In this flip-flop, ping-pong sequence of events, it seems President Biden’s Executive Order (EO) 14043 is again on hold again. This is the order that required federal employees to be "fully" vaccinated.
Coronavirus disease COVID-19 infection medical illustration. China pathogen respiratory influenza covid virus cells. New official name for Coronavirus disease named COVID-19_ pandemic risk background
COVID-19 Corner #2: COVID-19 Inquiries & the Genetic Information Non-Discrimination Act (GINA)
If you are asking employees for any information about their family members’ COVID-19 status, you may want to re-evaluate that process and procedure.

On July 7th, the U.S. EEOC announced a conciliation agreement was reached with an employer whom the EEOC found violated the Genetic Information Non-Discrimination Act (GINA). 
Recording Hours Worked: DOL's Got an App for That!
Are you recording all time worked by your non-exempt employees? The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) announced an Android version of its app for time-tracking. It not only tracks all time worked but then calculates the wages that are due, including overtime.
Macro photo of tooth wheel mechanism with REGULATIONS_ COMPLIANCE concept words
Proximity Bias - The Next Protected Status?
What is proximity bias? Most describe it as an employer’s preference for employees to work on-site rather than working from home (WFH). The preference is based on the employer’s belief that employees who work on-site are more productive than those who WFH, which may or may not be true. Probably, “it depends.” But what are the workplace ramifications and what might the future bring?
UPCOMING EVENTS


ICYMI - July's Archived Webcasts


Recorded events still provide the listed and pre-approved HRCI & SHRM credits.
In its 2nd Edition!
A SHRMStore "Great 8" Best-Seller
8 Years in a Row!
Thank YOU!
This publication does not constitute the rendering of legal advice. You should consult your company's legal counsel for guidance on any matter. 
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