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Pennsylvania

Outrageous behavior? Don’t fear fast discipline

05/12/2014
Some workplace behavior is so outrageous that employers must take immediate action. While a complete and thorough investigation is ideal, don’t be afraid to act fast when necessary.

Is there any law against nepotism?

04/30/2014
Q. Our COO just hired his son as a district manager for our largest region. There are many other individuals within the organization who are more experienced for the position. Are there any laws regarding nepotism in Pennsylvania?

What’s the legal standard for firing an executive for behaving inappropriately?

04/30/2014
Q. We recently held a three-day meeting and on the second night one of the regional account executives proceeded to drink too much and behave very badly. He failed to show up for the final day of the meeting. Is this grounds for dismissal?

What danger lurks in your (possibly outdated) handbook?

04/30/2014
Many companies fail to align their handbooks with the realities of their business. As a result, they end up with a handbook that does more harm than good. Here’s what they should include.

In Philly, ‘Pete’s Tax’ refund to employees: $8.5 million

04/30/2014
The Philadelphia-based Chickie’s and Pete’s sports bar and restaurant chain has agreed to settle charges it stole tips from employees and failed to pay the federal minimum wage.

Judge dismisses race bias complaint against college

04/30/2014
A federal judge has agreed to dismiss racial discrimination claims leveled against the Harrisburg Area Com­­mu­­nity College by a black woman who was twice turned down for a position as vice president.

Warn bosses against publicizing FMLA leave

04/30/2014
It’s up to employees to decide how much they want to divulge to co-workers about their FMLA leave. Warn bosses never to discuss an FMLA request with those who don’t need to know about it.

Providing additional leave? Employee loses some rights

04/30/2014

Sometimes, employees with serious medical conditions need more than 12 weeks of FMLA leave to fully re­­cover. Employers that choose to provide more leave or determine that it would be a reasonable accommodation to do so can extend the time off. But the employee loses some rights in the move.

ADA: Minor complications following surgery don’t add up to a disability

04/30/2014
When someone has surgery or undergoes extensive medical treatment, it’s fairly common to have temporary and lingering problems with energy levels, memory and general feelings of wellbeing. But these don’t make the employee disabled under the ADA.

ADA disability: Always allow for individualized assessment of employee’s condition

04/30/2014
Disabled employees are entitled to individualized assessments of their limitations so em­­ployers can determine if a reasonable accommodation is possible. It’s crucial to be flexible.