Furloughs can be an effective way to cut costs during times of decreased business activity. However, employers should think through the decision carefully with special attention paid to pay, benefits, and other issues. Here are answers to frequently asked questions related to furloughs.

The Department of Labor has published a proposed rule that would change the test for determining whether a worker is an employee or independent contractor under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA).

The minimum wage in Alaska will increase to $10.34 per hour on January 1, 2021. The change is a result of annual adjustment for inflation. All non-exempt employees must be paid at least the minimum wage per hour.

California has enacted legislation (Assembly Bill 1731) that makes a number of changes to the existing work-sharing program operated by the Employment Development Department (EDD) to help increase use of the program by employers. The changes are effective immediately, but will be repealed at the end of 2023, unless extended.

California has enacted legislation (Assembly Bill 1963) that will add certain human resource employees to the mandatory reporting requirement for child abuse and neglect. Assembly Bill 1963 takes effect January 1, 2021.

California has enacted legislation (Assembly Bill 2017) clarifying the state's kin care law. Assembly Bill 2017 takes effect January 1, 2021.

California has enacted legislation (Assembly Bill 2399) that clarifies definitions for the purposes of the military exigency leave that will be covered through the state's paid family leave (PFL) program. Assembly 2399 takes effect January 1, 2021.