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Florida

Make sure your policy is understood before rejecting applicants because of bankruptcy

11/09/2009

As the effects of the recession linger on, personal bankruptcy filings are still climbing. If you’re a private employer that doesn’t want to hire managers who can’t handle their financial affairs, be careful before rejecting someone because he’s filed for bankruptcy.

When deciding reasonable accommodations, assess disability on individual basis

11/09/2009

Employees who become partially disabled sometimes ask for accommodations that may go beyond what they truly need or beyond what their employer believes the law requires. Then, when the employer turns down the request, they sue, alleging failure to accommodate. To counter such claims, keep good record …

No matter how ill-advised the order, insubordination can be a valid discharge reason

11/09/2009

Sometimes employees balk at following their supervisors’ directions—especially when they consider an order ill-advised or even stupid. But the underlying wisdom of the directive doesn’t excuse an employee’s angry reaction. He or she can still be terminated for insubordination if he responded inappropriately.

Ratting out co-worker is whistle-blowing

11/09/2009

Employees who report wrongdoing by other employees are protected from retaliation by the Florida Whistleblower Act. The law covers objecting to or refusing to participate in an employer’s illegal activity, policy or practice, or an illegal activity of anyone acting within the legitimate scope of employment for the employer.

Review postings to be sure they’re up-to-date

11/09/2009

Now is a good time to make sure you have properly posted all required workplace notices where employees can see them. Take inventory and update any posters that have changed as a result of new laws and regulations.

Check your OSHA records!

11/09/2009

OSHA is conducting a “National Emphasis Program” targeting employer record-keeping of workplace accidents and injuries. As part of the program, OSHA inspectors will be checking employer records and taking enforcement action “when employers are found to be under-recording injuries and illnesses.” Advice: Firm up workplace illness- and injury-reporting practices before federal inspectors drop in for a visit.

Hilton Grand Vacations hit with pregnancy bias charge

11/09/2009

The EEOC has filed pregnancy discrimination charges against Orlando-based Hilton Grand Vacations after the company failed to rehire a worker who resigned to deal with pregnancy-related health problems.

Hillsborough County settles harassment case against politico

11/09/2009

In a conclusion to a lurid case that has made headlines for more than two years, former Hillsborough County legislative assistant Alyssa Ogden has been awarded $75,000 for enduring constant sexual propositions from County Commissioner Kevin White.

DCF whistle-blower wins $1 million verdict

11/09/2009

Gerolyn Shapiro, a former child welfare investigator, sued the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) for wrongful termination and retaliation under the state’s whistle-blower statute. A jury awarded Shapiro $1 million.

Recruiting college students? Consider all ages

10/13/2009

If you have a robust college-student recruiting program, make sure you consider students from all age groups for your open positions—co-op and internship programs, too. That way, other employees can’t point to your college-student recruiting program as direct evidence of age bias.