News Brief headerIn a recent call with U.S. governors, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Director Robert Redfield warned that small gatherings are increasingly becoming a source for COVID-19 infections.

Redfield said that, importantly, there is a higher degree of vigilance and mitigation steps in many jurisdictions. However, the spread of infection specifically through small household gatherings is currently an “increasing threat,” as the CDC reports that many states are seeing increases in COVID-19 cases. The CDC is focusing its attention on small gatherings as experts warn of the potential for a surge in COVID-19 cases over the winter.

Trends at a glance headerWhat Is Self-funding? An employer has a self-funded (or self-insured) group health plan if the employer assumes the financial risk associated with providing health care benefits to its employees.

Rather than paying fixed premiums to an insurance company—which, in turn, assumes the financial risk— pays for medical claims out of pocket as they are incurred. | | |

The COVID-19 pandemic has undoubtedly changed many aspects of the modern workplace—and some of those changes may continue in perpetuity after the pandemic is over. One aspect that falls into this category is paid leave programs.

Many employers across the country are changing paid leave programs to comply with applicable federal, state or local guidelines during the pandemic and support employees through these challenging times. In fact, according to data from Mercer, 49% of surveyed employers have adjusted their sick leave programs due to COVID-19-related absences and about 12% have expanded employees’ time off to show their appreciation.

Legal Update HeaderUnder a new law enacted on Sept. 30, 2020, certain California employers must file an annual workforce pay data report with the state by March 31 every year.

The law applies to employers that have 100 or more employees and are required to file the federal Employer Information Report (EEO-1) with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). The deadline for an employer’s initial report is March 31, 2021.

Legal Update HeaderOn Oct. 13, 2020, the Small Business Administration (SBA) published a new set of answers to frequently asked questions about the forgiveness of loans issued under the federal Paycheck Protection Program (PPP).

The PPP was created by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) as a response to the current COVID-19 pandemic and was designed to provide a direct incentive for employers to keep their workers on the payroll. Small businesses and eligible nonprofit organizations, Veterans organizations, and Tribal businesses described in the Small Business Act, as well as individuals who are self-employed or are independent contractors, are eligible if they also meet program size standards.

The need for social distancing has put a pause on normal socializing activities, like family get-togethers, restaurant outings and music concerts.

As the pandemic continues, social distancing doesn’t need to mean social isolation. If you don’t address it, isolation and loneliness during the pandemic may pose a risk to your mental health.

Why It Matters

Social connectivity is the feeling of closeness and connectedness to a community. Every connection has a lasting impact on our physical and mental health—so it’s especially important during this time to focus on connectivity to support both yourself and others in your community.

Safety Matters HeaderIt’s vital for employees to feel comfortable in their job role and capable of performing workplace tasks effectively. However, comfort shouldn’t come at the cost of complacency.

Being complacent on the job and ignoring safety hazards can carry significant consequences in the workplace—such as near-miss incidents, injuries and even fatalities. After all, just because your workplace is safe, doesn’t mean you don’t have to follow proper precautions. In fact, many safety incidents aren’t caused by unsafe conditions, but rather by careless acts or behaviors. That’s why it’s crucial for you to play your part in combating complacency, keeping both yourself and others safe at work. Review this guidance to understand what workplace safety complacency is and how to prevent it.

HR Insights Blog HeaderIn the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, working parents are now being forced to contend with their children’s new school routines.

Unfortunately, these routines will be varied by school, with little universal guidance. The uncertainty surrounding these routines and their impact on working parents will undoubtedly have ripple effects in the workplace.

If your organization has had an employee contract the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and you need to inform your customers or vendors as well as having possible contact with this individual, Reseco Group is pleased to provide a free editable word document template for your use. Word Document iconNote, some customization is required. To download a copy of the template please complete this form and it will take you to the download page.