Recent Updates

Texas has enacted legislation (House Bill 2127), which preempts local jurisdictions from adopting and enforcing laws related to conduct that is governed by the state’s labor code, among other things. As such, the law blocks the Austin, Dallas and San Antonio paid sick leave ordinances. House Bill 2127 takes effect on Sept.  1, 2023.

The state of Washington’s Department of Labor & Industries (DOLI) has adopted a Final Rule to permanently protect workers from outdoor heat exposure. The Final Rule takes effect on July 17, 2023.

Minnesota has enacted legislation (House File 2) that will create a paid family and medical leave program in the state. Contributions to the program and wage-replacement benefits will begin January 1, 2026. Employers can opt to have a private plan to meet the requirements, provided the plan is approved by the state.

Alabama has enacted House Bill 217 (HB 217), which excludes from gross income for state income tax purposes amounts received by a full-time hourly wage-paid employee as compensation for work performed in excess of 40 hours in a week.

The exemption provided under HB 217 will be in effect for tax years that begin after December 31, 2023, and end prior to June 30, 2025.

Arkansas has enacted legislation (House Bill 1576), which expressly prohibits employers with nine or more employees from discriminating against individuals based on a natural, protective or cultural hairstyle. The changes take effect July 31, 2023.

Arkansas has enacted legislation (House Bill 1410) that will remove a requirement for individuals under the age of 16 to obtain a work certificate from the state Department of Labor. House Bill 1410 takes effect July 30, 2023.

Colorado has enacted legislation (Senate Bill 23-105), which amends the state’s rules for pay and opportunity transparency in internal and external job postings. The law takes effect January 1, 2024.

Colorado has enacted legislation (Senate Bill 23-017) that expands the reasons employees may use paid sick leave under state law. Senate Bill 23-017 takes effect August 7, 2023.

Colorado has enacted legislation (Senate Bill 23-058) that expressly prohibits employers from making age-related inquiries on an initial employment application. The law takes effect July 1, 2024.

Kentucky has enacted legislation (Senate Bill 47) that will allow adults to use medicinal cannabis for certain medical conditions beginning in 2025. The law also addresses employers’ rights regarding medicinal cannabis.