It is always a good idea for employers to review their Employee Handbook at the beginning of each calendar year. Especially more so this year, as there are many new federal and state level laws, impacting employers of all sizes.

Here are some items to consider and review with your HR professional.

· New sick and family leave mandates brough on by the federal Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) and similar acts put in place by some states, counties and cities across the United States;

· New health and safety requirements for the workplace;

· New anti-discrimination policies;

· New policies regarding remote workers;

· New minimum wage thresholds in some states.

Being in compliance with all labor laws and planning ahead is not only a good practice, but can prevent many labor disputes between employees and employers.