Your company's culture—the shared values and beliefs that are reflected through policies, practices, and interactions—can be critical to attracting, motivating, and retaining employees. This can be especially true during the COVID-19 pandemic and when facing other challenges. Here are seven key areas where you can help foster a positive culture at your company.

Several cities and counties in California have approved ordinances that require employers to provide hazard pay (premium pay in addition to the employee's regular rate of pay) to certain employees. The following chart provides a brief overview of these requirements. Many of these laws also have notice, recordkeeping, and other requirements. Employers in these jurisdictions should read the ordinances in full to determine their full compliance requirements.

The California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH) has published new guidance answering questions about upholding state nondiscrimination requirements during the COVID-19 pandemic. The guidance addresses vaccination policies and practices and other topics.

California has enacted legislation (Senate Bill 95) that requires employers with more than 25 employees to provide COVID-19 supplemental paid sick leave to employees. The leave requirement applies retroactively to January 1, 2021 and will remain in effect through September 30, 2021.

The California Supreme Court has ruled that employers are prohibited from using rounding practices when tracking whether meal periods are provided in compliance with state requirements.

Connecticut has enacted legislation (House Bill 6515) that makes clear that employers are prohibited from discriminating against applicants and employees because of their hair texture and protective hairstyles. House Bill 6515 is effective immediately.

New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy has signed Assembly Bill 21, also known as the New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory, Enforcement Assistance, and Marketplace Modernization Act, or "the Act." While the Act is effective immediately, the employment-related protections for recreational marijuana users do not become operative until initial rules and regulations are adopted.

The living wage in the City and County of Santa Fe, New Mexico will increase to $12.32 per hour on March 1, 2021.

New York City enacted bill Int. 1314-A , which amends the New York City Fair Chance Act (FCA). Int. 1314-A takes effect on July 28, 2021.