On July 21, 2021 the Department of Labor announced a proposed rule raising the minimum wage for all federal contractors to $15 per hour. This is a “proposed rule,” and thus requires the Department to engage in the formal rulemaking process (which allows for hearings and public comment), the Department’s...
Mandatory COVID-19 vaccination policies in the workplace
Mandatory COVID-19 vaccination policies in the workplace As COVID-19 vaccines became readily available, employers must examine the legality of mandatory and voluntary vaccination policies. On May 28, 2021, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) issued guidance for employers regarding mandatory vaccination policies, employer-provided vaccine incentives, confidentiality, and accommodating workers...
Biden Issues Order aimed at business competition, which will limit use of non-compete agreements
On July 9, 2021, President Biden issued a broad executive order designed to increase competition among American businesses, as well raise wages for American workers. The Order titled, “Executive Order on Promoting Competition in the American Economy,” contains over seventy-two different initiatives, and instructs over a dozen federal agencies to...
The Americans With Disabilities Act And COVID-19
The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) issued guidance, with a focus on employer obligations under the Americans with Disability ACT (ADA), in the wake of COVID-19.
Governor Walz Signs Bill Extending Minnesota Property Tax Appeal Deadline To May 30, 2020
On March 28, 2020, Governor Walz signed Chapter 71 of the 2020 Session Laws. As part of the COVID-19 response efforts, the deadline for appealing property taxes has been extended from April 30 to May 30, only for taxes payable in 2020.1 The Parker Daniels Kibort Minnesota property tax appeal...
Coronavirus Aid, Relief, And Economic Security Act: SBA Loans
On March 27, 2020, President Trump signed the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, a nearly $2 trillion economic stimulus package. There are a number of provisions that impact small and medium-sized businesses.
Minnesota Emergency Executive Order Expands Unemployment Compensation In The Wake Of COVID-19
Governor Walz issued an Executive Order providing that strict compliance with Minnesota’s unemployment laws be suspended and the availability of unemployment benefits be expanded in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Order expands the universe of eligible employees to include persons who have temporarily or permanently lost their jobs, or...
Overview of Minnesota “Stay At Home” Executive Order
On March 25, 2020, Governor Walz signed an Executive Order directing Minnesotans to remain at home, work remotely if possible, and limit their outside activities to those that are essential. Notwithstanding the “Stay at Home” Order, individuals may leave their home for the following exempt activities:
Limited Waiver of HIPAA Sanctions in Response to COVID-19
As of March 15, 2020, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services will not sanction or issue penalties against hospitals for failing to comply with certain provisions of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) during the COVID-19 health emergency.
Contract Performance in the Wake of COVID-19
With the COVID-19 pandemic, parties can expect contract rights, obligations, and remedies to be impacted. Individuals are being self-quarantined to prevent risk of exposure and facilities are being closed. As a result, parties are forced to determine whether they are obligated to perform under their contracts, or whether they can...