Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee recently signed a bill to expand the state’s anti-bullying law to private employers. This law provides for creation of a model policy for employers to adopt.

Did you know that approximately 75% of people surveyed said they had been bullied on the job? A study by Canadian researchers published in the journal, “Human Relations,” suggests that co-workers who witness bullying are also traumatized and likely to look for another job.

The Healthy Workplace Act (HWA) in TN requires all employers to prohibit “abusive conduct: like:

• Repeated verbal abuse
  • * Verbal, non-verbal or physical conduct of a threatening or humiliating nature
  • * The sabotage or undermining of an employee’s work performance.

Said compliant policy should assist employers in recognizing & responding to abusive conduct & prevent any retaliation against any employee who reports same.

Bullying affects employers, as well. Bullied employees lose motivation and waste time defending themselves & worrying about the situation. Bullied workers cannot perform their jobs well either.

If employers want to create an anti-bullying policy in their workplace, diligent planning & perhaps advice from an employment law attorney should be the first step.

Tax Breaks for Vehicles

Purchases of one or more vehicles for your business may qualify for tax breaks under current law. The Tax Cuts & Jobs Act allows unlimited, 100%, first year bonus depreciation for qualifying new & used assets (including eligible vehicles acquired before 12/31/2022. If said asset is used, it must be new to the taxpayer (you or your business entity).

Source

HR obligations face many new local & state laws. From shared insurance payments to alien worker rules, employment laws are complex, & HR Departments are expected to handle it all. An HR expert like Rick Ratner can connect you with sources & experts to help your business comply with the more complicated and newest laws.

Emerging Workplace Trends

1. More diversity & inclusion. Companies are recognizing the need for including underrepresented groups in their workforces.
2. Gen Z workers are expected to comprise 36% of the workforce by 2020. Companies are adapting their people strategies to attract and retain young talent.
3. Preventing sexual harassment. More businesses are making positive moves toward safer environments for women.
4. Flexible hours & workspace. More companies are giving employees a choice of flexible hours & even remote work locations