Articles

U.S. Department of Labor to Issue New Rule on Classifications of Workers as Contractors or Employees

Government regulations don’t always either get much attention or impact many people, but a new one from the U.S. Department of Labor will do both. It promises to rewrite the … more →

The Ongoing Pandemic Presents Tough Management Challenges for Small Employers

As the Covid pandemic marches on with no end in sight, stresses and complications for small business march right along with it. As they struggle to make ends meet in … more →

Uber and Lyft Face Suit Over Treatment of Drivers as Independent Contractors Rather than Employees

The days of ride-share giants Uber and Lyft treating their drivers as independent contractors may be coming to an end in Massachusetts. At least, that is, if Attorney General Maura … more →

Congress Makes Forgivable Payroll Protection Plan Loans Easier to Spend

The persistence of the COVID-19 epidemic led Congress to amend the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) to help the many small businesses that have so far taken advantage of it. As … more →

Massachusetts to Begin Reopening Business

It’s been about two months since Governor Charlie Baker issued his shut-down order to most Massachusetts businesses. Now, the Governor says, it’s time to start the reopening process. It won’t … more →

Employer Update: Dealing with Coronavirus Work Issues

As the response to the coronavirus moves on at warp speed, it’s hard to keep track of new developments. The one certainty is that small employers and their employees alike … more →

It’s Time all Employers Implement Written Coronavirus Policies

Amid the startling developments with the coronavirus (aka COVID-19) this week, it’s time for all employers to immediately implement written policies to deal with it in their workplaces. Content will … more →

Court Award of 3X Wage Damages to Former Employee is a Warning for Employers

In a decision that sounds a warning to employers, the Massachusetts Court of Appeals recently concluded that triple damages under the Wage Act may be awardable even to former employees. … more →

Minimum Wage Rates Set to Increase January 1, 2020

Massachusetts minimum wage rates are set to make their next jumps on January 1, 2020. Effective that day, all employees must be paid at least $12.75 per hour. Tipped employees … more →

Governor Seeks to Reverse Recent SJC Ruling on Overtime Pay

Governor Charlie Baker saw something he didn’t like in a recent decision by the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court, and he’s hoping to do something about it. In the wake of … more →