On July 31, 2024, Massachusetts took a significant step toward pay equity when Governor Maura Healey signed a new Pay Transparency Law into effect. This legislation, aimed at promoting fairness and transparency in compensation practices, is part of a broader nationwide trend addressing wage disparities and discriminatory practices across various industries. Here's what Massachusetts employees [...]
Pregnancy should be a time of excitement and joy, but for many working women, it can also bring challenges in the workplace. Unfortunately, pregnancy discrimination remains a significant issue, even in today's progressive world. In Massachusetts, pregnant employees are protected by both state and federal laws that prohibit discrimination and ensure that they are treated [...]
Massachusetts recently enacted the “Francis Perkins Pay Equity Act,” or “FPPEA to combat pay inequity. FPPEA goes into effect next year and will work along with the Massachusetts Equal Pay Act (“MEPA”), which has a parallel purpose and has already been in effect for several years. There are two main components of the law, which [...]
Navigating workplace discrimination can be daunting and complex. Fortunately, in Massachusetts, employees have a robust ally in the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (MCAD). Understanding the role of the MCAD is essential for employees who believe they have experienced discrimination at work. This blog article will delve into what the MCAD does, the types of discrimination [...]
When you're presented with an employment contract, it's crucial to understand the terms and ensure your rights are protected. Here at Greene & Hafer, we specialize in helping employees navigate the complexities of employment agreements. Here are key strategies and considerations to help you negotiate a contract that safeguards your interests, with a focus on [...]
In today's fast-paced corporate world, standing up against misconduct or unethical behavior in the workplace can be daunting. However, it's essential to remember that employees have rights and protections, especially when it comes to blowing the whistle on illegal activities. Whistleblower protection laws exist to safeguard those who speak out, ensuring their voices are heard [...]
In today's digital age, concerns about privacy in the workplace have become increasingly prevalent. As an employee in Massachusetts, it's essential to understand your rights and protections regarding workplace privacy. Whether it's monitoring your emails, tracking your internet usage, or conducting drug tests, employers may need to adhere to the law to ensure your privacy [...]
In the realm of employment law and labor regulations, the terms "exempt" and "non-exempt" hold significant weight. For both employers and employees, understanding the distinction between these statuses is crucial. Whether you're navigating job offers, determining compensation structures, or ensuring compliance with labor laws, having a clear grasp of exempt vs. non-exempt employee status is [...]
In the dynamic landscape of employment law, it is crucial for both employers and employees to be well-versed in the specific regulations that govern the employer-employee relationship. In our last article, we focused on wage and hour laws on a federal level. However, Massachusetts, known for its rich history and diverse economy, has its own [...]