Your business comprises various parts, and your team is a major component of that. It is important that you are following all applicable laws when it comes to your employees and personnel.
The United States DOL provides a summary of the general labor laws that businesses across the board must apply. However, some states have additional laws. It is important that you stay abreast of these laws and how they may affect your business.
At-will employment
In essence, Michigan being an at-will employment state means either the employee or the employer may terminate employment at any time. However, there are a few instances where an employer may not fire an employee, including:
- Harassment accusations
- Unpaid wage claims
- OSHA complaints
If an employee receives termination following any of these instances, your company may face a lawsuit.
Safety
In accordance with OSHA, it is the employers’ job to provide a safe workspace for the employees. Many Michigan employers must also carry some sort of worker’s compensation insurance in the case that an employee suffers an injury on the job. Considering this, safety training for employees may be a smart investment.
Overtime
If an employee works over 40 hours per week, Michigan law states that employers must pay them overtime. There are a few instances where this rule does not apply, and that is when an employee receives a salary or is exempt. Otherwise, not paying overtime can carry steep penalties if caught.
Time off/leave events
There are specific instances where employers must provide paid leave in the state of Michigan, which the U.S. Family and Medical Leave Act details. Under the law, employees may take up to 12 weeks off for illness, as well as bonding with a new child or caregiving for a family member. Also, if an employee is serving in the military in some capacity, employers must allow the leave of absence.
Considering how laws tailor to different states, it is important to fully understand how the laws of your state affect your business. By becoming familiar with these laws, you will be ready to properly conduct business in those areas.
