Policies / Handbooks

Lunchroom food rules may lead to discrimination charges

02/09/2026

If you’ve had to create lunchroom rules based on what employees are bringing to eat or heating up in the microwave, it’s time to rethink that strategy. An employer recently paid $200,000 to a couple whose discrimination lawsuit began with a co-worker’s complaint about allegedly “pungent” Indian food and deteriorated from there.

A Valentine’s Day reminder for HR: Check your fraternization policy

02/09/2026

Heading into the Valentine’s Day holiday is always a good time for HR professionals to dust off their company’s fraternization policies, and to remind your managers and employees of these guidelines.

OPM guidance puts telework policies back under the microscope

01/26/2026

Federal telework policies moved back into the spotlight after the Office of Personnel Management updated its guidance to emphasize in-person work as the default for most federal employees. While the revisions align with the Trump administration’s January 2025 return-to-office orders, the guidance also outlines practical guardrails that HR teams outside the government can use as benchmarks when reviewing their telework frameworks.

Flu surge highlights importance of clear HR policy

01/20/2026

The flu is surging well beyond typical seasonal levels, and HR leaders can’t rely on outdated policies to protect their workplaces.

New York set to enact first AI law after Trump executive order

01/12/2026

On Dec. 11, President Trump signed an executive order on artificial intelligence aimed at promoting the United States as a global leader in AI development. Almost immediately after, New York Governor Kathy Hochul signed legislation that will establish new state rules on the development of AI models.

EEOC lawsuit highlights how not to use a point-based absenteeism system

12/22/2025

A recently filed EEOC lawsuit against JCPenney highlights how employers must account for absences under an attendance point system. While such systems cut down on employees whose absence causes scheduling problems, managers and supervisors must be trained on how to handle call-offs that may be covered under the FMLA, ADA and PWFA.

A new federal fight over AI rules lands on HR’s doorstep

12/15/2025

The federal government is heading for a showdown with states over who gets to shape the future of AI.

ABA employment law conference highlights legal DEI policies

12/08/2025

2025 has proven to be a tough year for employers seeking to create an equitable workplace. With the new administration challenging the legality of some DEI policies, employers have had to make changes.

Do you need a modified AI policy against ‘accidental’ use?

12/08/2025

You likely have an artificial intelligence policy that limits which AI system employees may use, as well as how and when they should. That’s necessary because some AI systems may retain information employees input into their search, potentially exposing trade secrets and confidential information.

Why Target’s smile policy could backfire

12/01/2025

Generally, employers can require employees to treat customers with respect and consideration. But can they really require workers to fake it?