Shortly after taking office, President Trump swiftly reshaped the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), with changes that were, frankly, anticipated by employment lawyers who have watched the pendulum swing with each new administration. He dismissed the...
As you know from previous updates, a Maryland Federal Court enjoined President Trump’s Executive Order attempting to eliminate DEI initiatives. The Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals reversed the injunction for now while the issue continues to play out through the court...
On February 14, 2025, the Maryland Department of Labor (MD DOL) proposed delaying implementation of the upcoming Family and Medical Leave Insurance (FAMLI) program suggesting that employers and workers need additional time to prepare for the launch. Under the new...
Many people would like to bring a family member or friend with them to meet with their divorce lawyer, or potential divorce lawyer. There are many reasons a family member or friend would be helpful: Moral Support. Especially in meeting with a potential divorce lawyer...
Answer: Whenever you have questions or concerns. Meeting with a lawyer does not by itself commence any separation or divorce from your spouse. I meet with people who just want to know “what if?” and then return to their marriages. So, you may just be interested in...
Breaking a lease early can be stressful – and potentially expensive. However, in certain situations, tenants may have legal options for terminating a residential lease without facing harsh financial penalties. Whether you’re relocating for work, dealing with unsafe...
We get it – lawyers are expensive. This recurring series seeks to help employers and employees in deciding whether calling your lawyer in a certain situation is unnecessary, is dependent on your risk tolerance, or is an absolute must. As an employer, sometimes you...
For those with a special needs child or grandchild, taking steps to ensure they have a safe, happy, and healthy future is even more important due to the additional hurdles they may face. To help provide a prosperous future for your special needs child or grandchild,...
Question: In Maryland and the District of Columbia, how long do I have to live apart from my spouse before I can file for divorce? Answer: No time at all! You do not need any separation period before you file for divorce. You can file for divorce in Maryland...
After a 5-year hiatus, the U.S. Department of Education reports that it will begin resuming collections of defaulted student loans on May 5, 2025. There are currently about 43 million student loan borrowers in the U.S. who owe about $1.6 trillion. The Department of Ed...
As children with disabilities approach adulthood, families face a critical transition: the end of services provided through the public school system. Under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), students with disabilities are entitled to a Free...
We get it – lawyers are expensive. This recurring series seeks to help employers and employees in deciding whether calling your lawyer in a certain situation is unnecessary, is dependent on your risk tolerance, or is an absolute must. Being an employment lawyer in...
We get it – lawyers are expensive. This recurring series seeks to help employers and employees in deciding whether calling your lawyer in a certain situation is unnecessary, is dependent on your risk tolerance, or is an absolute must. Most employers offer some form of...
Question: How do I approach my fiancé about a premarital agreement? Short Answer: Carefully. Longer Answer: In an open-ended way before a draft is prepared. The cliché of a coerced and therefore unenforceable premarital agreement is the scenario of the bride at the...
What seemed like a distant threat is now rapidly approaching. On July 1, 2025, certain non-compete agreements for certain healthcare professionals in Maryland will be null and void. The text of the law is here. Let’s take a look at what...
If you are thinking of acquiring, or perhaps already under contract to buy, real property – whether commercial, residential, or mixed – that you will rent out to tenants or otherwise hold for business/investment purposes (and not as your personal or family home), you...
EEO-1 reports are annual surveys that employers with 100 or more employees, and federal contractors with 50 or more employees, must submit to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (“EEOC”). The EEOC has opened the 2024 EEO-1 data-collection cycle and has set...
As poet Robert Burns mused centuries ago, the best-laid plans of mice and men often go awry. Despite thoughtful effort and a concerted strategy, you cannot prepare for every emergency in life. A car accident, sudden illness, workplace injury, or chronic medical...
Ever been around the table during a job interview and you think this is the perfect candidate. And just then, a colleague on the interview team leans in and asks, “So... what do you currently make?” You freeze and the candidate freezes. Then she answers, “That’s a bit...
Partisan political activity may jeopardize your tax-exempt status
How can you ensure that you’ll receive the highest value for your business when it’s time to sell?
A Texas federal court permanently blocked the FTC’s non-compete rule nationwide, but state law restrictions may exist
A forthcoming FLSA amendment and a pending U.S. Supreme Court case could have major impacts on how and how much employers pay their employees.
Better to save the handshakes for when your written agreement is signed.
Given that the Federal Government is the largest consumer of goods and services in the world, spending approximately $500 million annually through contracts and grants, it is no wonder why many contractors look to break into the government market. However, many contractors do not have the resources to win these competitive contracts on their own.
A roundup of recent and upcoming legal developments affecting government contractors
Go ahead, ignore illegal workplace conduct.
EEOC has turned a focus to construction contractors
Should you update your Estate Planning Documents when you move?
Despite Baltimore City’s ordinance requiring certain questions on employment applications be banned, many employers remain out of compliance.
What should you do when your new employee brings his 100-pound “emotional support” dog to work on his first day?
White-collar industries are now implementing longer and more rigorous interview processes, requiring multiple rounds and additional requirements as they focus on hiring for culture and reducing turnover.
Holiday pay doesn’t have to be a pain.
The upcoming season of your favorite show could be delayed as the Writers Guild of America strike continues.
An update on the future of Non-Compete Agreements
Transform your 529 Plan into a tax-free future with Roth IRA rollovers.
This week’s ruling is the latest in a string of victories for those advocating for transgender rights and protections.
*** Here’s Why He’d Probably Be Wasting His Money
Why this recent NLRB decision means that all employers need to thoroughly review and update their employee handbook.
New Senate and House Bills allow victims of hate crimes to bring civil action against perpetrators.
New minimum salary thresholds for executive, administrative and professional employees to qualify for the “exempt” classification go into effect on July 1st.
One question that clients raise often is when should they revise, update or draft new estate planning documents? The short and simple answer to this query is: whenever you want to make a change.
How can an individual inherit assets without jeopardizing their eligibility for needs-based government benefits such as Medicaid or SSI?
Structuring your non-profit Board and its processes for optimal results
Words hold power, and adopting inclusive language fosters a respectful and productive work environment.
Time to think about how you use your time.
A reporting requirement that applied to all business entities has been suspended
How to ensure that your Single Member LLC provides the liability limitation you expect.
Force majeure clauses are contract provisions which generally relieve the parties from any liability in the instance that “an act of God” occurs or circumstances arise that are out of the control of any party involved.
Which benefit is more coveted than working from home, unlimited paid time off, or child care assistance?
The EEOC has proposed new guidance on how to identify, report, and enforce claims of harassment and hostile work environments. What does this mean for employers?
Following Alabama’s recent use of nitrogen hypoxia, Mark Stichel discusses methods of execution
Thresholds at which your business must comply with various federal laws
Creating outside of the B.O.X.
The math we learned in school doesn’t always apply in the real world
Students facing campus discipline may have fewer rights and face greater risks than those facing criminal prosecution
How to ensure that your beneficiaries receive the benefits from your life insurance
Grounded In The Clouds in Bel Air
What can you do if your neighbor’s holiday decorating goes too far?
What do a Harrier Jet and a French Bulldog have in common? Truthfully, not much, but the recent drama surrounding Lady Gaga and her stolen dogs can teach us a few things about making false promises to the public.
The NLRB argues that contestants on the Love Is Blind reality show are employees.
Ensuring that those you love are taken care of when you’re no longer around is less daunting than you think.
Who decides whether your case can be filed in federal court or in state court?
You can get high, just not here.
Be aware of state and federal laws under the Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) Act.
Proposed decrease in estate tax exemption could lead to estate tax liability for many Marylanders.
Updated information on when FAMLI will go into effect
Baltimore Black Arts District Executive Director
Why Intelligent Clients Consider Settling Lawsuits
With high schoolers scrambling for summer employment, we are constantly asked about minimum wage and sub-minimum wages applicable to minors. Here is a quick tutorial.
Examine recent Supreme Court decisions and learn how to balance freedom of expression and religious accommodation.
Gen-Z doesn’t communicate like its predecessors. What does that mean for employers?
Even when it’s not mandatory, it may be advisable.
Ignoring the forum could cost you a fortune.
Updated guidance on workplace harassment includes harassment based on sexual orientation and gender identity.
Substantial transactional cost savings may be available when purchasing or refinancing commercial real estate utilizing an IDOT-secured loan structure.
Are you liable for your deceased father’s credit card bill?
The months of January and February are the best times of year to look for a job. Companies have new budgets, workers have returned from their holiday vacations and employers have a backlog of hiring that needs to be done. Coincidentally, according to Match. com, this is also a popular time of year for people to be active on online dating sites. The reality is that interviewing for job candidates can feel similar to dating.
In recognition of recent gasoline price increases, the IRS announced a special adjustment effective July 1, 2022, for the final months of 2022
How will the recent Maryland Supreme Court decision impact your workplace policies?
Do you need to monitor employees who work remotely and is there a better alternative?
A Michigan Fan’s Legal Thoughts on a Football Scandal
During the COVID-19 pandemic, State agencies were challenged to acquire pandemic-related resources, including personal protective equipment and COVID-19 test kits. To expedite procurement when needed resources became available, State procurement officers relied more frequently on emergency procurement methods, which lack the procedural safeguards and the normal review required for traditional competitive procurements.
Ways to make sure that your holiday party doesn’t have unfortunate consequences.
Updates to Maryland Family Law Chapters 383 and 384 of 2020 made numerous changes to statutory provisions regarding child support obligations which will become effective in July, 2022, including (1) revising the schedule of basic child support obligations used to calculate child support amounts under the State’s child support guidelines; (2) establishing circumstances under which a court is authorized to decline to establish a child support obligation; and (3) requiring a court to take specified actions if there is a dispute as to whether a parent is “voluntarily impoverished.”
The Pregnant Workers Fairness Act says you should be.
According to a 2017 survey by Robert Half printed in the April 2018 edition of SHRM’s HR Magazine, 35% of Americans don’t use all of their vacation days. Here are some reasons why:
Does your workplace policy provide more time off to a new mom over a new dad? If so, it’s time to revisit your policy to ensure it does not discriminate against new dads.
Why should you not handwrite your Will and keep it under your couch cushions, like Aretha Franklin did?
The Department of Labor has finalized its guidance to employers on classifying workers as either employees or independent contractors
If your company does not have a retirement plan for employees (e.g., 401(k), 403(b), SEP, or Simple IRA), this article is for you.
Q: My best friend’s mom passed away and her brother is challenging her Will in Court. The situation is very stressful and has torn the family apart. I have three children. How do I prevent a legal dispute when I die?
The schedule for ballot challenges is exceptionally fast – Mark Stichel explains why.
An expensive reminder to all employers that hiring decisions should not be based on an assumption of a candidate’s skill set on the basis of their sex/gender or any other protected characteristic.
The Ban on Non-Compete Agreements Amendment Act of 2020 (the “Act”) was signed into law on January 11, 2021 by D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser, and took effect following a thirty-day congressional review period. Washington D.C. joins California and Montana as one of the few jurisdictions with a nearly complete ban on noncompetition provisions applicable to employees.
How can you protect your rights and interests when your commercial customer files for bankruptcy?
A guide for safeguarding your employees during the summer and implementing effective controls for a safe and productive season.
The SBA’s 8(a) program for emerging contractors abandons the presumption of disadvantage based on race or national origin and requires approved contractors to provide a statement demonstrating with examples that they have been socially disadvantaged.
A business may provide Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), limit the number of workers in the office, implement more cleanings, mandate masks and social distancing and be thorough in enacting all CDC recommended guidelines.
Why you should read those Terms of Service instead of just clicking “I Agree”.
Dispute resolution outside of the courtroom.
From Corporate Disillusionment to the Heart of Baltimore City’s Childcare
Remember to add these legal requirements to your year-end checklist
What should an employer do if they suspect they are not their employee’s one and only?
A well written employee handbook can help your company operate smoothly and efficiently. Here are four ways to improve handbooks for your business!
On March 28, 2022, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) released its Annual Performance Report and Enforcement and Litigation Statistics for fiscal year (FY) 2021 (covering October 1, 2020–September 30, 2021).
Learn how to bring your team together and capture their attention with these four tips to running an efficient meeting.
Accommodations may be appropriate, but a mandatory reduction in tasks is not.
Most employers address violent threats on a case-by-case basis without a formal assessment process. While each incident is, sadly, unique, the best time to plan for violence is before it happens. Here are some tips to ready your workplace:
Impress your friends with your knowledge of correct legal terms!
A new factor to consider when negotiating hospital employment contracts.
Employers’ ongoing responsibilities and evolving legal considerations in a post-COVID era.
Upcoming Deadline and What You Need to Know
New Senate Bill permits registered domestic partnerships to have the same effect as marriages.
When the clock struck midnight on December 31, 2020, the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) expired. But, employers are getting another opportunity at assistance. President Biden signed the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (ARPA).
Having fun and remaining professional are not mutually exclusive during the holiday season
The EEOC recently issued new guidance aimed at employers to ensure that any hiring tools based on algorithms or artificial intelligence (AI) do not negatively impact applicants with disabilities.
Are there legal limits on employees expressing support for BLM in the workplace?
Gain a greater understanding of what fiduciary duty should be.
Why it’s important to complete estate planning documents even if you think you don’t need them yet.
Why employers should encourage the use of sick leave.
The modification now allows employers to bar an employee’s use and disclosure of confidential and proprietary information during and after the employee’s employment
Mathematician and a trailblazer in the fields of systems engineering, cybersecurity, and PKI services
The reporting on this issue has been confusing since President Biden signed an Executive Order on July 9th 2021 that addressed everything from airline refunds, to internet access, to importing prescription drugs from Canada. But buried in the Order was a reference to a ban on non-competition agreements.
The Americans with Disabilities Act (“ADA”) prohibits medical examinations, including psychological examinations, aimed at uncovering disabilities except in limited circumstances (e.g., law enforcement). Although many private employers seek to implement personality tests to measure potential success, employees have succeeded in their legal challenges to psychological testing.
With Maryland’s Primary Election Day quickly approaching (Tuesday, July 19, 2022) followed by the General Election Day (Tuesday, November 8, 2022), we thought it was time for a quick reminder about what leave rights your employees have to vote.
What can you do if you suspect that an employee is under the influence of illegal drugs at work?
One of the most common questions employers ask me is – What do I owe my employees in their final paycheck? Employees must be paid for all hours worked, including any overtime pay and earned commissions. But what about accrued vacation or other paid time off (PTO)?
We get it – lawyers are expensive. This recurring series seeks to help employers and employees in deciding whether calling your lawyer in a certain situation is unnecessary, is dependent on your risk tolerance, or is an absolute must.
JAMA researchers caution employers to temper expectations about the financial return on investment that wellness programs can deliver in the short term
Many employment handbook policies outline, with great specificity, permissible clothing and grooming policies according to gender. For example, it may be permissible for women to wear open-toe shoes, skirts, dresses, cropped pants, and earrings. On the other hand, men must wear long pants, have short hair, and no earrings. Some argue this may be discriminatory.
An upcoming Maryland law makes it illegal to retaliate against employees complaining about violations of various wage laws.
FMLA Tips for employers to keep the holidays merry and bright.
Is your child college bound? Secure their future with important legal documents and insurance – get prepared with RKW!
New Maryland Bill brings protections for children more in line with federal standards.
On April 11, 2022, Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin signed HB 1173 into law, replacing various provisions of the Virginia Overtime Wage Act (VOWA) making Virginia law more consistent with the federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA).
New Senate Bill imposes State sales and use tax on home amenity rental transactions.
What can Taylor Swift teach you about ways to create buzz and grow your business?
Why you should always know what’s in the fine print before you sign a contract.
Guidance on navigating bylaws and parliamentary procedures for effective decision-making.
Advice on resolving workplace attendance woes including converting to hourly, exempt employees, and regaining control.
Or, What It Means to be an At-Will Employee
A discussion on the impact of the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) latest decision regarding confidentiality and non-disparagement in severance agreements.
Q: How can I ensure that my special needs child has use of my IRA funds after my death without disqualifying her from public benefits?
Choosing the right person for each role is critical.
The CDC issued new guidelines to address the ongoing public health threat.
Creating safe, inclusive workplaces for the LGBTQ+ community is the right thing to do – and it helps with achieving business objectives
Recent news out of this year’s Comic Con in San Diego has led me to consider some important lessons about the need to have an up to date will.
The growing disparity in the minimum wage from state to state
In Maryland and DC, forcing automatic renewals of contracts may be a problem.
How and why this recent Supreme Court decision means that out-of-state corporations are at risk when they register to do business in Pennsylvania.
Steamboat Willie is Steaming into the Public Domain
The NLRB expands make-whole relief, substantially increasing possible damages awarded against employers.
Beware The Never-Ending IT or Software Contract
Why you should think twice before adding someone to your bank account.
72% of working women will become pregnant while employed at some time in their lives. Read what is expected of employees in these situations.
Do you need to monitor employees who work remotely and is there a better alternative?
Prosecutions Begin of COVID-19 Government Relief Improperly Obtained
How a well-written, detailed residential lease agreement protects your interests
There is no such thing as a “1099-Employee.” It’s a misnomer. A person who works for a company is either an employee (in which case they’re paid pursuant to an IRS Form W-2), or they’re an independent contractor (in which case they’re paid using an IRS Form 1099)....
Reverse discrimination, exempt employee questions, and ADA protections post-retirement
TikTok TikTok! Time may be running out for this popular social media app.
A good commercial lease is a lengthy and detailed document for very good reasons.
Regardless of whether you are an employer or an employee, understanding restrictive covenants (“non-competes”) is important. Here are some helpful tips and definitions to refer to when contemplating the different types of restrictive covenants one might encounter in employment agreements.
Tips for becoming compliant with the new anti-DEI EO while remaining faithful to state anti-discrimination laws
8 Reasons to Include Detailed “Buy-Sell” Provisions in your Ownership Agreement
Navigating the Debbie Downer Employee
Have you ever completed remote inspection of I-9 documents for new employees? Do you offer that option to new hires now? In either case, you need to read this.
Assuming that the subcontractor was fortunate enough to be on the winning team of a Government Contract, generally the next step is for the parties to enter into a subcontract agreement. Before executing such an agreement, the subcontractor needs to be vigilant and well informed.
Before “Succession” returns for its fourth season, here are some wise considerations for business owners who want to keep it all in the family.
As we emerge from a pandemic that resulted in more than 900,000 deaths (and still counting) in the United States, employers have begun to re-evaluate and expand their bereavement policies.
Can employees be fired for expressing their political views?
Guidance issued by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) on Tuesday, September 8, 2020 addressed whether telework was here to stay as a workplace accommodation.
Unlawful termination is not the answer to your diversity problem.
What Employers Need To Know
The impact of several recent Supreme Court decisions could be significant and long-lasting.
A Back-To-School primer on the labor and employment law concepts that every employer should know.
Wondering if your love will be forever fabulous? Learn how to safeguard your romance with a prenuptial agreement.
It’s time to audit your payroll practices.
Many businesses are subject to this new FinCEN reporting requirement – and the penalty for non-compliance can be steep.
All publicity isn’t necessarily good publicity.
Most people do not look at or skim over the boilerplate at the end of the contract. However, that it the first thing I look for when a client has a contract dispute that he or she wants to litigate.
One of the unintended consequences as the #MeToo movement has swept across the country, is an occasional rush to judgment by employers who take swift corrective action in terminating the alleged harasser. Recognizing the power of social media and not wanting to obtain unwanted negative social media attention, some employers simply dismiss the alleged harasser relying solely on “at will” hiring policies.
It’s time to demystify employment laws and learn the difference between ‘At Will’ and ‘Right to Work”
Spearheading a movement for positive change within Baltimore’s minority non-profit community
What to consider when selecting, building and protecting a brand name.
Policies that support working parents and family health attract and retain top talent
Navigating the A.I. revolution and unleashing potential while upholding workplace compliance.
Recent Court decisions on DEI Initiatives
On December 14, 2021, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) updated its COVID-19 technical assistance website adding a new section to clarify circumstances under which COVID-19 may be considered a disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Rehabilitation Act, triggering certain employers to consider making accommodations. Here is a basic summary:
Why it may be unwise to use emojis at work
Why it’s unacceptable to refer to adult women in the workplace (or elsewhere) as “girls”.
Using an off-the-shelf handbook is risky.
The best Valentine’s gifts are peace of mind and financial security.
COVID is surging again in Maryland – should you update your workplace policy?
New Senate Bill will end spousal immunity for rape and sexual offenses.
A new bill incentivizes the use of shorter workweeks by public and private employers
An Ohio judge recently sentenced a woman who assaulted a fast food worker to work at a fast food restaurant for two months. Would you hire her?
What is FAMLI, and when will it go into effect?
Laws regarding ground rent in Maryland are changing as of July 1, 2023
A homeowner-favorable tax provision that offers a potential “win-win” for small business owners.
Even the most sophisticated of business leaders sometimes misunderstand and misuse terms the terms “at-will” and “right-to-work” when referring to a person’s employment status. These terms have entirely different meanings.
When does upcycling cross the line into infringement?
An update on the bill proposing a shortened work week for Maryland employees.
The ongoing status of the proposed ban and the court challenges filed to stop it
Mark Stichel pays tribute to an African-American legal pioneer.
Federal Government Proposes Nationwide Ban
Adapting to Maryland’s new marijuana legalization, employers and HR personnel face the challenge of adjusting to a shifting landscape.
The Maryland General Assembly continues to work out the kinks surrounding the legalization of cannabis.
Starting in 2020, Generation Z will make up 36% of the U.S. workforce.
Managers are always company representatives, regardless of whether they are on the clock or off. Decisions made, information shared, actions taken, and even social media posts by the manager may all be attributed to her employer.
The other day I was speaking with an acquaintance who works as a tailor at a high end men’s clothing store. Her manager had recently counseled her about the clothing and jewelry she wore to work, basically saying: More clothing, less jewelry. The manager then showed her a copy of the company’s dress code policy which stated, among other things, “No ostentatious earrings.”
Estate planning lets you control from beyond the grave who receives your money, when they receive it, and how they may use it.
As businesses return employees to work, there should be a clear regimen for cleaning work and break areas. This regimen should also be communicated to employees who may have questions about the safety of their work spaces.
Q: I have not designated beneficiaries for my IRA. Why do I need to complete a beneficiary designation form? Won’t it be distributed to my heirs?
A momentary lapse of judgment, a word said in the heat of the moment – these single incidents can now cause big problems for employers. Employers stand warned: More litigation lay ahead. Two recent decisions by the Second Circuit further outlined what is required to prove a hostile work environment claim under Title VII.
Dealing with well-intentioned mistakes at work.
The state’s minimum wage increase will go into effect sooner than expected.
The “Know Your Rights” poster just received an update.
Multiple Biden-era memoranda have been rescinded.
Settlements in high-profile defamation cases spurs renewed interest in defamation litigation, despite the legal hurdles.
Effective Saturday, October 1, several new laws went into effect in Maryland and Washington D.C. Here are a few that impact roadway safety, non-compete agreements, harassment, and paid leave.
Major Changes to Gun, Police and Drug Laws
What does the upcoming constitutional amendment mean for Marylanders?
New Maryland laws and a practical checklist of things businesses should undertake at the beginning of the year
What you need to know about this potential new option for passing on real estate to your beneficiaries.
I assure you, I don’t represent the dark side.
FAQs on the FTC’s Proposed Rule to Ban Non-compete Clauses
Potential changes could mean that non-profits will have to pay overtime to some staff who are currently classed as exempt
Which opinions cannot be cited in Maryland’s courts, and why?
FAMLI applies to all employers – here’s what you need to know.
The revised law, expected to take effect on October 1, 2022, is one of the strictest non-compete laws in the nation.
Who can control what current and former employees say about their employer?
Steer clear of the business and legal hazards that come with social media.
A recent Federal Court decision means that some companies may not need to register and comply.
What should employers do now?
Major changes to non-compete provisions for veterinary and healthcare professionals in Maryland
Your paystubs must be compliant with the new law by October 1st.
Employers must determine good-faith wage range, disclose it in job postings, and keep records demonstrating compliance.
Attention employers, Maryland’s new Family Medical Leave Insurance Program will take some more time before it goes into effect.
Maryland passes a few bills making some important changes to the Minority-owned Business Enterprise (MBE) program.
Don Walsh explains recent legal changes affecting government contractors in Maryland
Don’t make these mistakes when creating contractual employment agreements. Steve Kaufman has your insights in the Under Pressure: A Medical Podcast by MVS Woundcare and Hyperbarics.
Join Laura Rubenstein at ImpactHR’s in-person discussion on “Fostering Good Mental Health and Wellness in the Workplace” on Tuesday, October 25
When did you last review and update your business’s state registration? Failing to do so could prove to be an expensive mistake.
Six Tips for Government Contractors
Experts offer the following suggestions for preventing workplace theft:
Empowering minority businesses by uniting opportunities for construction contracts in the WSSC MBE utilization program.
On March 11, 2021, President Biden signed a $1.9 trillion stimulus package called the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021. The Act provides for additional PPP funding and extends the eligibility of PPP loans to certain non-profits and digital news services. The Act also established the Restaurant Revitalization Fund which provides new funding for all the breweries, restaurants and eateries out there who have been impacted by COVID and the economic downturn.
That question is a no-no for Maryland employers who are interviewing and recruiting new workers.
Two former footballers have pledged $50,000 per Olympic medal to Team USA Track & Field athletes. Do they legally have to follow through?
Give yourself and your loved ones the gift of peace of mind by ensuring that your affairs are in order.
Start planning now – how much can you contribute to your retirement accounts in 2023?
Can employers evaluate the sincerity of the religious beliefs of an employee who requests religious accommodations?
The first quarter of the year is typically when companies hire new employees, which is why it’s important to be reminded of the Maryland law that went into effect October 1, 2020. If you’re ready to hire again, be warned: You cannot ask candidates about their salary history.
Some workers insist on being incentivized to show up. How is your workplace handling returning to the office?
Leveraging Social Impact Through Business Consulting
Fourth of July is upon us, which means it’s time to get your grills and lawn chairs ready for a day of fun.
A passionate advocate for equity, entrepreneurship, and community well-being and a valuable partner for entrepreneurs.
Maryland will soon require grocery stores and restaurants to maintain an automated external defibrillator accessible to both employees and customers.
Your business needs a policy on the use of AI in the workplace. Here’s why.
Often times as a small business grows it runs across several big business problems. One of those is training new managers. Managers are often selected because they were great employees and it’s assumed that great employees will make great managers. However, the managers are often unaware of the laws that can get them and your company in trouble.
What do you do when your employee can make it to the Ravens game, but not to work?
Complex family structures need tailored estate planning strategies
Here’s what you need to check off your To-Do list before the end of the year.
Will using gig workers get you sued?
One issue which has been a very real recent challenge in workplaces is accommodating mental health concerns. Between the COVID pandemic, political turmoil and recent Supreme Court rulings, employers are faced with employees who are not operating at peak performance and frequently complaining of fatigue, distraction and a bevy of emotional turmoil mirroring symptoms of PTSD or other mental health issues. The question from many employers and HR professionals is “do I have to tolerate this?” There is a practical answer and a legal one.
Complaints by a single employee may constitute protected group activity.
Learn the difference between fact and fiction when it comes to Maryland pet trusts in this analysis of Netflix’s gripping, new docuseries Gunther’s Millions.
Verbal promises don’t hold up in contracts, learn why it’s important to get it in writing.
The Maryland Working Families Act is extremely broad and applies to all employers in the state with at least 15 employees, without regard to whether the employees are full-time, part-time, seasonal or temporary.
Why your employees aren’t using all of their PTO, and why you should encourage them to take a break.
Maryland employers, prepare to make contributions to the state’s Time to Care Act (TCA) later this year.
How seriously do the courts take perjury?
Why is it important to include your digital assets in your estate plan, and how should you account for them?
How to stop political discussions disrupting the workplace
My wife passed away earlier this year. We have significant assets. Do I need to file an estate tax return?
Are the right posters hanging on your workplace walls?
“It depends.” The DOL proposes a return to murkier waters in classifying individuals as independent contractors.
A recent update to Maryland law makes Maryland one of the few states that legally acknowledges domestic partnerships. How will this affect estate planning?
If you know me, I love animals. At a very young age and much to my mother’s dismay, I would smuggle stray cats and dogs into our basement so they could have food and a warm place to stay. So, it shouldn’t be a surprise that I would be a proponent of Pet Trusts.
Agreement Flexibility is Important but Vigilance Over Compliance is Required
Do you have a plan for determining who will manage your affairs if you become incapacitated?
The potential effect of the Executive Order on pending and future claims of discrimination
Starting July 1, 2026, most employees working in Maryland (including for small, large, public, private, for-profit and non-profit businesses) will be permitted to take time away from work to care for themselves or a family member and still be paid up to $1,000 a...
Remind your employees to review their 401(k) contributions