SB 1159, signed into law in September, requires that when a California employer “knows or reasonably should know” that an employee has tested positive for coronavirus, it must report that positive case to its workers’ compensation carrier within three business days. There is a lot of ground to cover in these reports and the legislation […]
January 26, 2021
Every year starts with a bevy of new laws and regulations affecting employers and businesses in California, and many of the new rules this time around are an outgrowth of the COVID-19 pandemic and its effects on workers. Employers in California in the year ahead have a number of changes they have to contend with, […]
January 26, 2021
It seems like a no-brainer to leave the lights on outside your home to deter burglars while you’re away (or even while you’re asleep). But, does that really work? Or, is it just a waste of electricity — particularly this time of year, when the days are short? Those answers can differ depending on a […]
December 18, 2020
About 2 million times every year, animals and cars collide on U.S. roadways — often causing serious and even fatal injuries to drivers and passengers, along with about $1 billion in damage. And these collisions spike in the fall and winter, thanks to migration and mating patterns as well as reduced visibility caused by shorter […]
November 15, 2020
Unless you’re headed to a warmer climate for the winter — or you live in one already — fall is the time to start preparing your RV for winter (as long as you’re done using it for a while, that is). The elements can wreak havoc on your RV’s systems and exterior, but with these […]
November 3, 2020
The COVID-19 pandemic will lead to permanent changes in the way business is conducted, how we manage our workflows, and how we handle our personnel. It has forced many companies to furlough workers or keep operations going by having staff that, if they can do so, work from home ― and it’s clear the work […]
October 19, 2020
New Cal/OSHA regulations require employers to provide access to their injury and illness prevention programs upon request. Under the new rule, effective July 1st, employers are required to provide a copy of their IIPP within five days upon an employee’s or an employee’s representative’s (a lawyer’s) request. The employer can provide it in electronic or […]
October 19, 2020
Governor Newsom has signed legislation that creates a new framework for COVID-19-related workers’ compensation claims. SB 1159, which takes effect immediately, partly replaces an executive order that Newsom made on March 18 and which expired July 5. That order required all employees working outside the home who contracted COVID-19 be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. […]
October 19, 2020
In today’s digital world, slander and libel lawsuits are more common than you may think. Comments made in haste or anger on social media can have lasting and far-reaching effects on a person’s reputation or character, so it’s easier than ever to libel, slander, or invade a person’s privacy. Even if you apologize, you can […]
October 8, 2020
Fall is a wonderful time — if your home is ready for it. So enjoy the last few weeks of warmer weather, but do a little preventative maintenance while you’re at it. You’ll fix small problems before they become big, and big ones before they become catastrophes. Here are 10 tips to help: Look up. […]
September 22, 2020