The U.S. unemployment rate unexpectedly dropped to its lowest level in nearly three years last month, as the economy added more jobs than it had since April. [more]
Mass Layoffs Report - Updated Monthly
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported that employers completed 1,384 mass layoffs in December, causing 145,648 newly laid-off workers to file initial claims for unemployment benefits. Both mass layoffs and associated initial claims increased from November. [more]
Can I Take Family or Medical Leave for Flu?
Generally, eligible employees may take job-protected leave from work under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) to care for their own illnesses or those of sick family members; but, whether or not the flu is covered under the FMLA depends on its seriousness according to the U.S. Department of Labor. [more]
Minimum Wage 2012
The eight states listed below increased the hourly minimum wage to the dollar amounts shown, on the effective date of January 1, 2012. [more]
Emergency & Extended Unemployment Benefits 2012 Update
President Obama signed a new law that extends eligibility for the current unemployment benefit extensions explained below, for two more months into 2012. A House-Senate conference committee will negotiate extending the benefits through 2012. [more]
Hiring Outlook
According to the most recent results of an often-cited survey by ManpowerGroup, “U.S. employers expect hiring to increase slightly in the first quarter” of 2012. [more]
Does my employer owe me severance pay?
Perhaps you’ll be surprised to learn that there is no federal law that specifically requires employers to provide severance pay to employees when employment relationships end. [more]
