Our Blog
HWA Compliance
Well, the implementation date for the Healthy Workplaces Act (HWA) has come and gone. We at Southwestern HR Consulting have been tracking this piece of legislation since its inception and were busy ensuring our existing clients and many new clients were getting the necessary resources to be compliant by the July 1st implementation.
The Benefits of Online Mediation
Mediation has traditionally been done in a room between two parties and a mediator looking at each other over a table. The pandemic changed it all.
Fair Labor Standards Act Listening Sessions
The Department of Labor has been holding listening sessions in May to obtain feedback regarding the possibility of an additional increase to the salary threshold for exemption from the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA).
New Mexico Fires & Emergency Resources
Residents and businesses who have been impacted by the New Mexico fires can get help through government resources.
Federal Contractors and the VEVRAA
Employers who have federal contracts or subcontracts in the amount of $150,000 or more and who have 50 employees must submit an Affirmative Action Plan (AAP) annually and are subject to the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act (VEVRAA).
OFCCP – Contractor Portal Certification Webinar
The Office of Federal Compliance Programs (OFCCP) is providing a webinar on its Contractor Portal Certification. The session will occur on April 7, 2022, at 2:00 pm ET. This second session was scheduled due to the high level of interest in their March 31, 2022 session, so you will want to sign up as soon as possible if you are interested.
Hiring Tips To Acquire Top Candidates
We have outlined important hiring tips to recruit top candidates and fill open positions. We keep HR simple.
New Mexico Minimum Wage Rates for 2022
As we enter the new year, it is important that employers check their wages against the new minimum wage rates effective January 2022. For wage rates within the State of New Mexico, the highest wage rate will be effective.
COVID-19 Vaccine Policies & Religious Exceptions
The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) just released an updated COVID-19 technical assistance that includes clarification on religious exceptions to an employer’s COVID-19 vaccination policies.
How Do Regulations Affect Businesses?
Regardless of the type of employer you are or your size, you will be impacted by a myriad of employment regulations and they will vary based on those factors and others.
The Importance of Thoroughly Investigating Performance Issues
Many organizations use progressive discipline for performance and attendance issues, even with “employment at-will” language in their handbooks, but will escalate discipline when warranted.
National COVID-19 Vaccination Requirements
As many of you have probably heard by now, President Biden announced several initiatives yesterday to require vaccination or weekly testing of employees working in certain industries.
Whistleblower Protections & DOL Updates
Last week, we discussed, that employees who are not protected under the Whistleblower Acts for Federal or state public employees may be covered under other non-retaliation provisions in other regulations or when requesting certain rights under the law.
Master Onboarding & Reduce Turnover
Previously, we discussed the importance of documenting issues and feedback given to employees experiencing issues during the probationary period. This week, I’d like to more fully explore the benefits of using the probationary period and successful recruitment and onboarding.
Employee Termination Q&A
Terminating an employee during a probationary period may still carry legal risks. Employers should ensure decisions are supported by legitimate reasons and proper documentation.
Employee Relations & Documentation
Clear, timely documentation is essential when addressing employee performance issues. Even informal feedback should be documented to support future actions and decisions.
OSHA Regulations You Need to Know
As individuals return to the workplace this summer, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has issued an emergency temporary standard to protect healthcare workers and new guidance for other industries in relation to COVID-19.
The Brain and Mediation
Is the brain a help or a hinderance when it comes to mediation? It can actually be a little of both. The brain was intended to keep us safe in the wild. In today's world, the brain can identify things as dangerous and keep us from moving forward productively.
Workplace Mediation Tips
Many organizations leave mediation as a last resort to resolve workplace situations, but did you know that mediation can be used whenever there is a disagreement where having a neutral party assist in facilitating a conversation would be helpful?
Federal Regulations You Need To Know…
A new Executive Order raises the minimum wage for many employees working on or in connection with federal government contracts. Employers should understand which contracts and industries are affected by the change.
Our ‘Brain Trust’ of Experienced HR Consultants
Whether you're building a stronger workplace culture, developing leaders, addressing employee relations concerns, or strengthening HR processes, our team provides the expertise and perspective to help you move forward with confidence.
SWHRC is powered by a Brain Trust of seasoned HR consultants, business leaders, and subject matter experts who bring decades of experience across industries. Together, we help organizations navigate complex people matters with practical solutions, thoughtful leadership guidance, and a strong foundation in compliance.
