We wish to inform you of a critical legal update that significantly impacts the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) overtime rules. On November 15, 2024, the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas issued a decision vacating the Department of Labor's (DOL) 2024 final regulation which had revised the salary threshold for the "white-collar" overtime exemptions.

Dear WHLA Members,
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As digital accessibility lawsuits continue to rise, it is crucial for all companies and organizations to ensure that their websites, both internal and publicly facing, comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Dear Attorney Bob,

Our hotel has a policy requiring employees to repay certain training costs and new hire bonuses if they leave the company within a set period. With recent updates from the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), I’m concerned this could be considered a “Stay or Pay” clause that violates employment laws. Can you explain what’s going on with these types of agreements, and whether our policy is still lawful?
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Sincerely,
Nervous in Neenah

Dear WHLA Members,
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We are reaching out to highlight crucial updates from the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) General Counsel that affect "Stay or Pay" clauses and non-compete provisions in employment agreements.

Dear Attorney Bob,

I’ve been hearing about changes to the U.S. Department of Labor’s new overtime exemption rules for 2024, and I’m concerned about how these changes will affect our business, especially our salaried employees. What do we need to know, and how do we stay compliant with the new regulations?
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Sincerely,
Preparing in Pewaukee

Dear Attorney Bob,

I’ve heard that there’s a new law requiring businesses to file reports with the government about their ownership, but I’m not sure what I need to do or when the deadlines are. Can you explain what the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) is and what our company needs to do to comply? I’m concerned about the potential penalties if we miss something.
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Sincerely,
Anxious in Appleton

Dear Attorney Bob,

Our business currently has a policy that requires employees to be fully healed, with no restrictions, before they can return to work after a medical leave. Is this okay?
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Sincerely,
Returning to Work in Reedsburg

Dear Attorney Bob,

I recently had an employee request an accommodation due to a disability, and I want to make sure we handle it properly under the ADA. I’ve heard about something called the “interactive process,” but I’m not exactly sure how it works. What steps should we be taking as an employer, and how do we avoid making mistakes that could lead to legal trouble?
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Sincerely,
Careful in Kenosha

At Your Service
with Attorney Bob

Dear Attorney Bob,

We’ve been getting more requests from guests traveling with animals, and there’s a lot of confusion about what our responsibilities are when it comes to service animals versus emotional support animals. We want to make sure we follow Wisconsin law and the ADA, but also maintain a smooth operation. What exactly are we required to do, and what can we ask our guests about their animals?
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Thank you,
Uncertain in Wisconsin

Dear WHLA Members,
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September is Suicide Prevention Month, an opportune time for us to reflect on the crucial role employers play in supporting mental health and preventing suicide. Creating a healthy workplace is not just about physical safety; it's equally about mental well-being.