New Year, New Postings: Examining 3 Top Labor Law Trends for 2020

You may soon be legally required to replace one (or more) of your labor law posters. Over the past few years, state, city and county governments have been busier than ever passing mandatory laws — as a response to inactivity at the federal level. And 2020 is gearing up for more of the same.

Trend #1: Minimum Wages on the Rise Nationwide

The federal minimum wage hasn’t increased in a decade. At $7.25 an hour, it’s simply not enough for workers to make a living in many areas of the country. Consequently, most states have established their own rates.

In January 2020, minimum wage workers in more than 20 states will get a pay raise. And the vast majority of these new laws require all employers in the affected state to update their minimum wage posters.

It’s also important to note that beginning January 1, 2020, federal contractors must pay covered workers at least $10.80 per hour.

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

Trend #2: Local Governments Requiring Paid Employee Sick Leave

Another legal trend expected to affect labor law postings is paid employee sick leave. Many states and local governments have already introduced new or expanded paid sick leave laws. Arizona, California, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont and Washington are just some of the states that have these laws in place.

Additionally, some cities and counties — including New York City, Minneapolis, Chicago, Cook County in Illinois, and Philadelphia — have issued their own paid sick leave laws. The laws vary greatly. They differ in the amount of leave allowed and how it’s accrued. Other variables include when employees can begin to earn and use leave.

This year, more legislation is expected to be introduced. In fact, New Hampshire is now considering a possible paid employee leave law. And mandatory posters are likely to accompany these new laws.

How Often Do You Have to Change Labor Law Posters?

Many employers incorrectly assume they only need to replace their posters once a year — usually when the minimum wage is updated. But laws change all the time. In 2019, there were more than 145 mandatory changes across 38 states. And all required updated postings.

Trend #3: Mandatory Sexual Harassment Prevention

The number of workplace discrimination charges filed with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission has been on the decline. However, sexual harassment charges have increased — likely due to greater awareness from the #MeToo movement.

Harassment prevention has never been more important. And many state and local governments agree. Lawmakers are requiring businesses to train employees and post notices regarding their rights and responsibilities. For example:

• Connecticut businesses with three or more employees must post notices to workers concerning the illegality of sexual harassment and remedies available to victims of sexual harassment.
• The Vermont Department of Labor has issued a Sexual Harassment Is Illegal notice that is mandatory for all employers. The poster describes what sexual harassment is, how to report it and consequences for those who commit sexual harassment.

Sexual harassment continues to be a hot topic and more laws — and postings — are anticipated in the coming months.

Never Worry About Posting Updates Again

Poster Guard® Compliance Protection annual subscription service includes all the notices you need to ensure compliance, including all required federal, state and local postings. You’ll be covered no matter what trends take effect. Any time a mandatory change occurs, you’ll automatically receive a replacement poster at no additional cost for an entire year.