2017: The YEar of HR

​Fasten your seatbelts everyone – 2017 is going to be a rollercoaster ride for employment issues.  Roo is here to help. 
Below are links to updated HR documents to start using in 2017:

• I-9.  This form must be completed within 3 days of hire.  Note:  you need to download the latest Acrobat DC Reader to view this file​
• 2017 W-4.  This form is used for employees to change their tax withholding 
• New Labor Law Posters.  If you haven’t updated your workplace posters since 8/1/16 you will need to either order or download the updated posters. 
  • MN posters can be downloaded here
  • Wisconsin posters can be downloaded here
  • Federal posters can be downloaded here
  • Alternatively, employers can choose to purchase all-in-one posters from vendors such as J.J. Keller

There is a great deal of uncertainty related to various employment laws. Here are a few things to be aware of:

• The Overtime Rule.  The salary threshold for exempt status was slated to be increased to $47,476 on December 1st.  November 22nd a Texas judge, on behalf of 21 states, filed a preliminary injunction, blocking implementation.  December 15th, the Department of Labor and the Department of Justice issued a brief stating this ruling should be reversed.  When the new administration takes over this opinion may change.
• 21st Century Cures Act.  On December 13, 2016 President Obama signed into law the 21st Century Cures Act.  This law provides small employers (50 or less employees) with the option to fund or reimburse an employee’s individual health care plan with pre-tax dollars.  This is significant for small employers who do not currently offer a medical plan.
• Sick and Safety Leave.  Minneapolis and St. Paul MN passed ordinances to mandate paid sick time as of 7/1/17.  The MN Chamber of Commerce has filed suit against the City of Minneapolis to stop this ordinance from taking effect.  City by city differences is unmanageable and the Chamber’s position is that any paid sick time should be at the state level, rather than varying from city to city.
• Affordable Care Act (ACA).  The new administration has repeatedly stated their intention to repeal the ACA.  On Jan. 3, Republicans introduced a resolution in the Senate to set up a reserve fund for future health care legislation under an ACA replacement bill

Roo will keep you posted with additional details as they become available.