On March 4, President Obama signed the Travel Promotion Act (TPA) into law. The TPA seeks to attract more international travelers to the United States. The Act will affect the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) as TPA initiatives will be funded in part by a $10 fee collected on VWP travelers. The $10 fee will be collected when VWP travelers complete the required Electronic System for Travel Authorization registration. Under the TPA, collection of the $10 fee must begin no later than September 4, 2010.
Recommended Reading
New Interpretation of Missouri's Minimum Wage Poses Potential Liability for Employers
Effective January 1, 2007, Missouri’s minimum wage was increased from $5.15 to $6.50 per hour. The text of the new law, read in context with existing state regulations, left unclear its effect on Missouri employers relying on “tip credits” to satisfy minimum wage obligations.
OSHA Update
Next month OSHA anticipates publishing final rules for the new Hazard Communication Standard.
A New Valentine’s Day Conundrum for Employers: Could Emoji Messages Amount to Harassment in the #MeToo Era?
It’s Valentine’s Day yet again, but this year the climate is different for employers. Between the #MeToo and #TimesUp movements, and the near-daily collapse of famous and powerful men (and some women) due to allegations of sexual harassment, employers are on high alert for any sign that sexual misconduct could be going on underneath their noses. While the holiday season usually brings the most challenges for human resources professionals trying to ensure holiday parties do not get out of hand and religious accommodation issues are properly handled, another holiday causes heartburn for many: Valentine’s Day.