That’s a wrap for 2022. We’re officially into the January 2023 calendar which means another year of challenges and opportunities over the next 12 months. This new year means employers across the state will have to replace all of the required labor posters in the office – failing to do so can come with severe consequences.
For employers, it’s important to get those renewed posters updated as soon as possible because not posting them or using outdated labor law posters can result in fines, litigation from employees, and even additional charges if employees don’t have clear access to a list of their rights. These posters inform employees of their rights in the workplace including wages, paid time off, workplace discrimination, and Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) guidelines.
There are two changes coming to the posters this year, one pertaining to EEOC workplace discrimination guidelines and the other relating to Florida’s minimum wage. The section of the poster that details EEOC rights will now use more direct language to make discrimination regulations more clearly understood by all workers. This “Know Your Rights” section will also include a QR code that employees can scan from their phone’s camera to learn more about filing a workplace discrimination claim. This makes filing a claim easier but also remember that these posters must be placed in a clear and accessible location in the office so you need to be aware of your surroundings if you want your claim to remain confidential.
The other change relates more directly to Florida. The state’s minimum wage officially rose to $11.00 an hour for non-tipped workers and $7.98 for tipped workers in September 2022. New labor law posters will reflect this change as being effective until September 29, 2023, because the state’s minimum wage will continue to rise on September 30th of each year until it ultimately reaches $15 an hour in 2026. This rate is nearly double the previous minimum wage which was $8.65. Federal employees in the state will continue to be governed by the federal minimum wage which remains at $7.25 an hour.
The new year is a great time to reassess employee rights – both for employers and employees. Employers need to take a moment to consider whether or not they’re doing enough to ensure all employees are provided the rights and opportunities they deserve. Employees need to take a moment to reengage with their rights and get a better understanding of their rights on the job. At Feldman Legal Group, we always stand by Florida workers and their rights to thrive in our state. If you feel like your employer violated your rights, contact us and get the compensation you’re owed.
* Keep on the lookout, as the FTC has now proposed making it unlawful on a national level to preclude the use of non-compete covenants and agreements. See here: https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2023/01/ftc-proposes-rule-ban-noncompete-clauses-which-hurt-workers-harm-competition
