Recent Updates

Oregon has enacted a final rule that requires employers to provide protections to workers that are exposed to high heat. The final rule is effective immediately.

On July 19, 2022, New York Governor Kathy Hochul announced via a press release the progress and enhanced efforts by the Wage Theft Task Force to combat wage theft when perpetrated by New York employers.

Bloomington, Minnesota has enacted an ordinance that will require employers in the city to provide sick leave to employees. Employers with five or more employees (regardless of location) must provide paid leave. Smaller employers must also provide leave, but it may be unpaid. The ordinance is effective July 1, 2023.

Illinois has enacted legislation (Senate Bill 3616) that expressly prohibits employers from discriminating against individuals based on their hair texture or protective hairstyle. Senate Bill 3616 takes effect Jan. 1, 2023.

Connecticut has enacted legislation (Senate Bill 361) that expands the circumstances under which employees may use voting leave under state law. Senate Bill 361 took effect July 1, 2022.

San Francisco has amended the city’s Family Friendly Workplace Ordinance (FFWO), which applies to employers with 20 or more employees. The changes are effective July 12, 2022.

Washington has enacted legislation (House Bill 1795), which prevents employers from discriminating or retaliating against employees for disclosing certain employment law violations, and prohibits related nondisclosure agreements. House Bill 1795 is effective immediately.

Virginia has enacted legislation (House Bill 1063) that clarifies the definition of religion for nondiscrimination purposes. House Bill 1063 is effective immediately.

Vermont has enacted legislation (House Bill 477), which extends protections under its crime victim leave law. House Bill 477 is effective immediately.

Utah has enacted legislation (Senate Bill 144) that prohibits employers from accessing or inquiring about an employee’s private genetic information or discriminating on the basis of genetic information or procedures. Senate Bill 144 is effective immediately.