On February 27, 2014, a bill (S1595) was introduced that appears to establish an increase in the minimum wage for tipped New Jersey employees—first to 40 percent of the standard minimum wage, and then after one year, to 69 percent of the standard minimum wage. However, as written, the bill refers to these increases occurring in 2012 and 2013. We anticipate that the bill will be amended to reflect implementation dates in 2014 and 2015.
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Employers Beware: COVID-19–Related Employment Lawsuits Are Heating Up
For the last several months, employers have been forced to learn how COVID-19 spreads, how to maintain or resume safe work environments, and how to navigate a complex web of new and existing laws and regulations implicated by the pandemic. Employers have also had to contend with a growing wave of COVID-19–related employment litigation.
San Francisco Bay Area and City of Berkeley Issue Mask Mandates for Even Fully-Vaccinated Individuals
On August 2, 2021, the City and County of San Francisco updated Health Officer Order No. C19-07y, entitled “Encouraging COVID-19 Vaccine Coverage and Reducing Disease Risks (Safer Return Together),” to require all individuals, including the fully vaccinated, to wear face coverings in indoor public settings, with some exceptions.
COBRA Subsidy: You’ve Got Questions … We’ve Got Answers
The new 100 percent premium subsidy applies to individuals eligible for Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA) coverage due to either a reduction in hours or an involuntary termination of employment, and it applies for the period from April 1, 2021, to September 30, 2021. The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) has already produced model notice forms and initial guidance consisting of a summary sheet and frequently asked questions (FAQs). Employers are still awaiting formal regulations and guidance from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).