Coronavirus Relief Package Includes
Key Workplace Provisions
 
President Trump has signed a bill, passed by Congress on Dec. 21, to fund the government and provide economic relief in response to the coronavirus pandemic.

The bill expands the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act's Paycheck Protection Program to cover all nonprofit organizations. The package also extends the refundable employer payroll tax credit for paid sick and family leave through March 2021, although the Families First Coronavirus Response Act paid sick and family leave obligations, which are due to expire at the end of this year, were not extended.

Other workplace provisions include:
  • Allowing workers to roll over unused funds in their health and dependent care flexible spending accounts.
  • Expanding employer-provided education assistance to include student loan repayment.
  • Providing employer tax credits for paid family and medical leave.
  • Extending the employee retention tax credit.
  • Delaying deferred payroll tax payments.
COVID-19 Vaccine Administration
 
On December 16, 2020, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) issued revised COVID-19 guidance addressing questions related to the administration of COVID-19 vaccinations to employees. Section K of the guidance now addresses several common questions employers have raised with respect to the now-available COVID-19 vaccine. While the EEOC points out that federal employment laws do not prevent employers from following guidelines and suggestions from public health authorities, the administration of vaccines to employees may raise legal issues employers should consider.

Here is what you need to know:    Read more...

Comprehensive Guidance from the EEOC
on Mandatory Vaccinations including:

  • Disability-Related Inquiries and Medical Exams
  • Confidentiality of Medical Information
  • Hiring and Onboarding
  • Reasonable Accommodation
  • Pandemic-Related Harassment Due to National Origin, Race or Other Protected Characteristics
  • Furloughs and Layoffs
  • Return to Work
  • Age
  • Caregivers / Family Responsibilities
  • Pregnancy
  • Vaccinations

More information can be found on the EEOC website or you can 
COVID-19-Related Tax Credits: Basic FAQs

Answers for questions, such as:

  1. What tax credits does the FFCRA provide?  
  2. When can employers start claiming the credits?  
  3. When will employers start receiving the credits?  
  4. What documentation must an Eligible Employer retain to substantiate eligibility to claim the tax credits? (Updated November 25, 2020)

OR for a summary of the items covered Read here

Insight to Employee Assistance Programs 
 
Employee productivity is a vital contributor to the success of any business. At times, employees may be too overwhelmed by personal or behavioral problems to perform at their highest levels. Furthermore, higher stress can lend itself to higher health risks and more costly health claims. Similarly, psychological problems, substance abuse, financial troubles and other personal issues can lead to lower productivity and focus during work, increased absenteeism and higher health care costs. An employee assistance program (EAP) can address these issues and help employees tend to their personal needs, leaving you with healthier, happier and more productive employees. Continue reading to find out:

  • What is an EAP?
  • Why offer an EAP?
  • Designing an EAP?
  • Cost versus Return on Investment (ROI)
  • ERISA and COBRA Considerations
  • Legal Considerations and Confidentiality
  • Employee Communication
Contact Us

HR Hotline
800-256-7310

Karen Shannon
Vice President Business Consulting/CHRO
417-881-8333, ext. 133

Carolyn O'Kelley
Human Resources Consultant
417-881-8333, ext. 126

Visit our Human Resources page at