Employers have long sought to present their public image in a positive light. Such policies typically prohibit employees from discussing corporate matters publicly or disparaging managers, co-workers, or the company itself on Facebook and other social media.
Helsell
A Brief Review: Seattle's Sick and Safe Leave Policy
Are you aware that there is the recently added chapter 14.16 of the Seattle Municipal Code which mandates paid sick and safe leave for employees working, even occasionally or by telecommunication, within the city limits? As of September 1, 2012, employees accrue paid sick and safe time according to a schedule based on the number of workers employed.
New Federal Policy Could Bring Substantial Changes for Students with Disabilities
On January 25, 2013, the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights issued important guidance to schools receiving federal funding. This guidance clarifies schools’ existing legal obligations to provide equal opportunities in athletics to students with disabilities as part of the wider effort to avoid such discrimination.
Legislature Considering "Impact Fee Deferral Covenants"
People dealing with development “impact fees” should keep track of House Bill 1652, which was introduced into the Legislature on February 4. The bill would significantly alter how development impact fees are collected by local governments
We Avoided the Cliff. Now What?
The American Taxpayer Relief Act enacted January 2, 2013 prevented many of the tax increases that were schedule to otherwise take effect on January 1, 2013. The Act will raise income tax rates for some high-income individuals, increase the tax rate on most dividends and long-term capital gains and also slightly increase estate and gift tax rates.
Washington Supreme Court Voids Arbitration Agreements for Insurance Contracts
Yesterday the Washington State Supreme Court held that arbitration clauses in insurance contracts violate state statute governing the business of insurance and are void as a matter of law. Dep’t of Transportation v. James River Ins. Co.
Still Clear as Mud: The Election's Impact on Tax Policy and Planning After Obama's Win
Now that the election is over, attention is focused on Congress as it begins its “lame duck” session this week. Many of our clients are wondering how to plan, when to sell, and how to manage their estates with the fiscal cliff looming ahead.
New Carbon Monoxide Requirements Start on January 1, 2013
New Washington State building codes make carbon monoxide detectors a requirement for all rental property on January 1, 2013
Four Steps to Better Contracts – Save Money & Avoid Headaches!
Lauren Parris and Catherine Vuong co-authored a post for Telefini Small Business Blog
New Form of For-Profit Corporation: the Social Purpose Corporation
The Social Purpose Corporation allows officers and directors to make decisions that advance the corporations social values without risk of legal liability.