In September, a federal court case began that could have far-reaching implications on employee classification for independent contractors. The result could affect similar cases in Indiana and across the country.
The negative financial and professional consequences of bias
Black and Latino workers in Indiana and elsewhere may find it harder to find a job compare to their white counterparts. According to researchers at Northwester, Harvard and the Institute of Social Research in Oslo, blacks and Latinos face roughly the same levels of bias in hiring that they did 25 years ago. The researchers analyzed various studies that have been conducted since 1989.
How to handle DACA uncertainty
Business owners in Indiana and elsewhere could be fined or jailed for employing DACA "Dreamers" after their work permits expire. However, business owners may face penalties if they terminate workers because of their DACA statuses. It could also be discriminatory to check paperwork related to a person's work status or ask questions about that subject.
Natural disasters, FMLA and the FLSA
Employers in Indiana cannot stop following regulations around the Family and Medical Leave Act or the Fair Labor Standards Act when a natural disaster occurs. When businesses do disaster planning, it is best to make contingency plans with these regulations in mind.
