Department of Labor’s AI Principles for the Workplace

Every time you open your inbox or scan trending news articles, you are sure to come across something about Artificial Intelligence (AI). AI has quickly become a hot topic across industries, including Human Resources (HR).   A fear that has come out of the quick growth of AI is that it will replace workers. The Biden-Harris … Continued

Compliance Updates for Summer 2024

Here at ESC, our compliance department is consistently monitoring labor-related rules and regulations on the federal, state, and local levels.  We identify and advise our clients on updates to existing regulations, newly enacted legislation, and labor-related items in the legislative pipeline.  Here are three key updates for summer 2024: Paid Lactation Breaks and Paid Prenatal … Continued

5 Tips for Managing Political Discussion in the Workplace

At the beginning of 2024, one of the HR trends to keep an eye on was the social and political climate. Between the presidential debate scheduled for later this month, increased action on the campaign trail, and the wide media coverage of former President Trump’s conviction, some political conversation is likely to trickle into the … Continued

The Current State of the Job Market and Implications for Employers

In the post pandemic era, the labor market has presented many challenges for employers from the Great Resignation to Quiet Quitting. As of April 2024, the current US job market shows a generally positive picture. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported an increase of 175,000 nonfarm payroll jobs, which, although healthy, is below the … Continued

Recognizing National PEO Week: How Partnering with a PEO Benefits Businesses

  This week kicks off National PEO Week! The first PEO week was celebrated in 2023, as proclaimed by Rep. Erin Houchin (R-IN), who is also a former PEO employee. Professional Employer Organizations (PEOs) like ESC serve small and mid-size businesses and provide business owners with peace of mind with reduced liabilities, greater employee benefit … Continued

ESC Celebrates 29 Years in Business

This past Monday, ESC celebrated 29 years in business. Starting in 1995 with 2 employees to our team of 90 employees today, we are proud of our organic growth.  As we look back over the years, so much has changed – our branding, our technology, our roles and responsibilities, and even our service offerings.  While … Continued

Marijuana Deregulation and Workplace Concerns for NYS Employers

The Deregulation of Marijuana in NYS  In March 2021, the Marijuana Regulation and Taxation Act was signed into law, making New York the 15th state to legalize recreational marijuana. The Cannabis Law legalized the use of cannabis (also known as marijuana or recreational marijuana) by adults 21 years of age or older. The legislation established … Continued

How to Say “Thank You” This Employee Appreciation Day

  With Employee Appreciation Day right around the corner on March 1st, you still have time to plan something fun and thoughtful for your most valuable asset- your employees. No matter how big or small, a thoughtful act of kindness or gift to your employees will surely be appreciated. Feeling appreciated in the workplace promotes … Continued

2024 Updates to New York State Minimum Wage

New York State Department of Labor has recently published the minimum hourly wage increase to become effective January 1, 2024. They have also released regulations for the corresponding increase to the salary exempt threshold for those exempt from overtime under the administrative or executive exemption, which is expected to be finalized.    NY State Minimum … Continued

Reflecting On Google’s Empire: What Has Made Them So Successful?

Google is easily one of the most recognized companies of our time. The company was founded by Larry Page and Sergey Brin in 1998, and since has skyrocketed to success. What was once just a simple search engine, is now a global technology giant, offering numerous services and products that have become a part of … Continued