Updating personnel rules is an endless task. Laws are constantly changing, and agencies are experiencing significant operational changes now more than ever. The responsibility of ensuring that all personnel rules are up to date and reflect both the legal requirements and the operational requirements is time-consuming and daunting. However, auditing personnel rules is one of
Public Employers Dealing with Employees with Disabilities Can Feel Like Being Stuck on the California Freeways
Fans of the late night television show Saturday Night Live probably have seen the recurring sketch called, “The Californians.” “The Californians” is a soap opera, and the characters portray Californian stereotypes, such as poking fun at the way Californians speak and drive and their obsession over traffic. One of the recurring jokes is that Californians
“I Don’t Feel So Good” – Protecting Employees from Illness in the Workplace During Cold and Flu Season
The holiday season is behind us, but we are still in the thick of cold and flu season. It seems like everyone you pass on the street or stand next to on the bus is sneezing, coughing, or blowing their nose. With so many people sick, it’s not surprising that many people have also encountered
Will The End Of Summer See The Expansion Of The California Family Rights Act
Last week, the California State Assembly passed Assembly Bill 2039, which would extend the rights of state, local agency, and private sector employees to claim protected family leave. The California Family Rights Act (“CFRA”) currently provides qualifying employees with up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave during a 12-month period for their own serious
California Legislature Fills Gap: Continuation Of Health Insurance Now Required Through Entire Four Month Maternity Leave
A gap that existed in California law concerning continuation of health insurance coverage during maternity leave has now been filled by the California legislature. Effective January 1, 2012, health insurers will be required to cover maternity benefits and employers who had been required to continue health insurance during a maternity leave covered by the Family
Reinstatement Rights Under CFRA/FMLA Not A Guarantee
The federal Family and Medical Leave Act of 1993 (FMLA) and the California Family Rights Act of 1993 (CFRA) provide leave and maintenance of health benefits to eligible employees in three situations. First, leave is permitted for the serious health condition of an employee or a listed family member. Second, leave is permitted for prenatal
Six Million Dollar Settlement Is A Reminder Of The Importance Of Complying With The California Family Rights Act
The California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH) and Verizon Services Corporation, which employs more than 7,000 people, agreed to settle a class action lawsuit challenging the company’s handling of family medical leave requests under the California Family Rights Act (CFRA). The DFEH’s lawsuit against Verizon alleges that the company had several policies and