RKL’s Workforce Strategies team is here to help you navigate the complexities of today's HR environment with the updates, reminders and insights you need to maximize your most important asset — your people. We value your feedback, so let us know what you think of this newsletter!
Update on ACA Reporting Requirements
The deadline for filing electronically with the IRS is March 31. Large employers that fail to meet the ACA coverage mandate to the IRS 30 days after the deadline may be subject to a $60 fee per return not filed. Between 30 days after and August 1, the penalty is $130 per return and, after August 1, the penalty increases to $660 per return, plus interest. Employers that can demonstrate that they acted in good faith and can show reasonable cause for the delay may have the penalty reduced by the IRS. If you know that you won’t meet the deadline, you can complete Form 8809, Application for Extension of Time to File Information Returns.
Overtime Rule Overturned: Court Rejects New Salary Thresholds
The federal court's recent decision to vacate the Department of Labor's new overtime rule has sent ripples through the business community. The rule, which aimed to raise the minimum salary thresholds for exemption from overtime pay, was deemed to exceed the DOL's authority. This decision reverts the salary threshold to $35,568, impacting millions of workers and employers nationwide. Learn more here.
Navigating Legal Complexities: Tailoring Accommodation Processes for PWFA, ADA, and Title VII
As we continue to see court litigation surrounding the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act and employers are navigating more request for mental health accommodations, its important for employers to button up their accommodation processes. We recommend differentiating accommodation processes for PWFA, ADA and Title VII. each law has different eligibility criteria and standards for what constitutes a "reasonable accommodation," particularly regarding the temporary nature of pregnancy-related limitations compared to disabilities under the ADA, meaning employers may need to approach accommodation requests differently depending on which law applies.
Adapting to Change: Reviewing DEI Policies in Light of New Executive Directive
As the landscape of inclusion and diversity evolves under President Trump's executive order, private companies face the challenge of aligning their initiatives with anti-discrimination laws. SHRM recommends a thorough review of these programs to ensure they promote equal opportunities and inclusivity without identity-based favoritism. Understanding the legal implications and redefining DEI strategies are essential steps for businesses in this new era. Read more here.
Schedule a meeting with our HR Advisors to discuss these changes and the potential impact on your business.
Employees Feeling, Well, Detached?
If you're sensing lack of engagement in your workforce, you're not alone. In a recent article from Gallup, "The Great Detachment: Why Employees Feel Stuck," highlights the growing detachment among American employees. Unlike the "Great Resignation," many now feel trapped due to a cooling job market and economic challenges.
This detachment risks decreased productivity and potential talent loss as employees resist changes. Contributing factors include rapid organizational changes, hybrid work challenges, evolving expectations, and ineffective performance management. Employers can address these issues by resetting expectations through clear communication, enhancing mission connection by linking work to organizational goals, modeling values, and encouraging storytelling to reinforce employees' connection to the company.
Interested in understanding how your organization fares in employee engagement and satisfaction? The Workforce Strategies team can help!
