Arizona Employment Law Changes for 2019
Employment law changes have arrived with the new year. Along with a few adjustments to federal law, Arizona introduced new employment laws that began with the start of 2019. To give you an idea about these changes, we’re offering an overview of the federal and Arizona Employment law changes for 2019.
What the Federal Government Decided to Do
With Executive Order 13658, the minimum wage rate for those who work as federal contractors increased. For 2019, the rate for these peeps went up to $10.60 an hour when they’re working through a federal contract. For employees who rely on tips and work under a covered contract, the rate increased to $7.40 an hour. The government guys also tweaked OSHA regulations by making it a requirement for construction employers to ensure that their crane operators are trained, certified and licensed.
Arizona Employment Law Changes for 2019
Starting January 1, 2019, Arizona increased the minimum wage to $11 an hour. The fortunate folks who live in Flagstaff will receive a little more since the state increased the minimum wage there to $12 an hour. Arizona also put its “mini-COBRA” law into effect on January 1, 2019. This law is directed at small employers. The official definition of a small business is one that employs from one to 20 employees. Along with applying to small businesses, the law also applies to those who started or renewed a health plan through their company after December 31, 2018. According to the change, like large companies, small businesses must offer a continuation of benefits for workers.
Changes Arizona Made in 2018
Last August, Arizona made a few other legal changes that the state’s employers should know about. In particular, the state made a change to military leave by expanding it out from those who are a part of the Arizona National Guard to members of any Arizona national guard unit.
Along with this, the state modified its data security breach notification laws to expand what it considers to be covered data. Arizona also established a 45-day time limit for companies to send out notifications about a breach. The 2018 changes require companies to let the Arizona Attorney General and national consumer reporting agencies know about breaches that impact more than 1,000 people. In regards to these notifications, companies must include detailed information and share details about how they intend to provide them.
The state also limited negligence claims against businesses by enacting measures that dismiss liability for neglectful hiring or contracting those who have a criminal conviction on their permanent records.
Be in the Know
It’s important for employers to be aware of the Arizona Employment Law Changes for 2019. Staying abreast of them decreases the chances of facing costly legal battles with the government and employees. Anyone who runs or owns a company should consider checking this information regularly to make sure that they’re staying in the know.
If you have legal questions, we can help, contact an Arizona attorney at Tyler Allen Law Firm, PLLC for a legal consultation.