2024 Employment Law Checklist: Recent Updates and Requirements

As the year 2024 progresses, it’s important for employers to stay up-to-date on the latest employment laws to ensure compliance and avoid any potential legal issues. From paid leave requirements to minimum wage increases, there are several new laws that have recently come into effect that companies need to be aware of.

In Chicago, a new ordinance now requires all employers in the city to provide up to 40 hours of paid leave and 40 hours of paid sick leave for employees working in the city. This ordinance, which was initially delayed for 6 months, is now in effect as of July 1, 2024. Additionally, the minimum wage in Chicago has been increased from $15.00 per hour to $16.20 per hour for employers with 4 or more workers.

Cook County has also seen a minimum wage increase, going from $14.00 per hour to $14.05 per hour as of July 1. In Illinois, the Freelance Worker Protection Act has been implemented, requiring written contracts for independent contractors earning at least $500 and providing them with protections against discrimination and harassment.

In Colorado, the Job Application Fairness Act now prohibits employers from seeking information that could reveal an applicant’s age, such as attendance and graduation dates from educational institutions. Similarly, in California, employers with 10 or more employees are required to implement a workplace violence prevention plan to ensure the safety of their workforce.

Lastly, in New York, new regulations require employers to provide at least 30 minutes of paid break time for employees to express breast milk for their nursing child for up to three years following the birth of a child.

With these new laws in place, it’s crucial for employers to review their policies and procedures to ensure compliance and protect their employees’ rights. Stay informed and stay compliant to avoid any potential legal issues in the future.