Employee handbooks are important for establishing employee expectations, addressing workplace issues, and defending against potential lawsuits. Failing to update the employment policies in these handbooks regularly can make employers vulnerable to legal risks and liabilities that may result in costly fines, penalties, and attorney fees. Employment laws are often complicated, and employers must know about new regulatory developments that may impact their organizations and workforce. The start of the year provides employers with an excellent opportunity to review and update their policies.
Several important legal developments in 2024 include:
- Captive audience bans;
- Final regulations implementing the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA);
- Paid medical and family leave laws;
- Creating a Respectful and Open Workplace for Natural Hair (CROWN) Acts;
- Expanded protected classes;
- Pay transparency; and
- Increased enforcement of employees’ rights under the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA).
This HR Compliance Bulletin covers the employment policies in more detail: 7 Employment Policies to Review in 2025.
Contact us for support with your organization’s employment policies and employee handbook.