Our Blog
Employee Handbook Language
As promised last week, we are going to talk a little more about at-will employment. If you are a private employer, you are going to want some at-will language in your Employee Handbook.
HR and Small Business
As a small business owner, understanding key HR fundamentals can help you avoid costly mistakes, stay compliant, and build a stronger workforce. Here are some of the most important HR considerations every small employer should know.
NLRB’s Joint Employer Status
In October of 2023, the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) issued its final rule for rescinding and replacing the joint employer status under the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA).
New Mexico SB3 Narrowly Fails in the House
Well, by now you have learned that SB3 with amendments did not pass the House. If you were concerned about having to implement a policy and process around the Act, if passed, and are now breathing a sigh of relief that you don’t have to do anything, think again.
U.S. Dept of Labor Final Guidance on Contractors & Employees
On January 10, 2024, the US Department of Labor announced an updated final rule regarding guidance on independent contractors and employees.
Wages Issues & Legislation
The New Mexico Legislature technically begins on 1/16/24 but legislation is already being pre-filed. The only Human Resources (HR) pre-filed legislation as of the beginning of this week is House Memorial 1.
Our HR Blog Year in Review
Below is Southwestern HR Consulting’s version of the Year in Review for all things HR. Enjoy reminiscing and, for those items still in process, looking towards items we’ll be tracking into the new year.
EEOC’s Proposed Guidance on LGBTQ+ status
On October 2, 2023, the EEOC published proposed guidance in the Federal Register for comment. The proposed guidance clarifies situations related to harassment and discrimination based on LGBTQ+ status.
Federal Anti-Retaliation Efforts
On October 31, 2023, the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) executed a Memorandum of Understanding that enables the NLRB and the Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) to expand coordination between the agencies, which allows the sharing of information and includes partnering on investigative efforts and enforcing anti-retaliation provisions.
Working with Unionized Employees
The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) recently published information on the following two appellate court opinions, enforcing two prior NLRB orders against an employer.
Tools for Employee Relations
Southwestern HR Consulting (SWHRC) has a variety of tools to help address employee relations issues in your business and in some cases, just like in the field of medicine, computers, and auto repair, more than one tool is necessary to help run diagnostics and address the situation.
The EEOC’s 2024-2028 Strategic Enforcement Plan
The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) just finalized its FY2024-2028 Strategic Enforcement Plan (SEP) after three public listening sessions and after having received comments during the 30-day public period.
Proposed Changes to Overtime Pay & OSHA Inspections
The Feds had signified they would be putting forth a proposal on changes to the current exemption threshold sometime in August. On August 30, 2023, they announced a NPRM (Notice of Proposed Rulemaking) on the exemption amount.
The Pregnant Workers Fairness Act
Understand the PWFA and the EEOC's proposed rules, including employer obligations to accommodate pregnant workers and applicants.
Employee Handbook for Small Businesses
Employee Handbooks set the basis for everything that you do related to your staff. Done right, it provides guidance to your managers and staff, creates common understanding, and keeps you in compliance with a multitude of laws. If done incorrectly, it can create numerous issues for your organization.
Accommodations for the Visually Impaired
The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) published a technical assistance document on July 26, 2023, which discusses how the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) applies to applicants and employees who are visually impaired.
Contractors – Disability Disclosure
Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities by federal subcontractors and contractors and requires employers to take affirmative action to recruit, hire, promote, and retain such individuals.
New Mexico Wage Laws
Learn the key New Mexico wage and payroll requirements, including direct deposit rules, deduction authorizations, and employee pay schedules.
Organizational Development
Investigators sometimes see issues that are systematic and can be addressed through organizational development initiatives. We can facilitate strategic planning sessions, goal setting, and communication and feedback sessions on change initiatives, in addition to personality style activities and team building.
AI & The Impact On Employment
The EEOC has released updated guidance on the use of artificial intelligence in employment decisions as part of its broader strategic enforcement efforts. Employers are encouraged to evaluate their hiring and selection processes to help prevent adverse impact and discrimination.
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.
