Question: Are companies required to offer COBRA to all employees who leave the organization?
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HR Newsletter: Learning & Development Trends to Monitor in 2026
Workplace learning is entering a new era shaped by slowed hiring, shifting employee expectations, and rapid advancements in artificial intelligence (AI). For employers, this creates a unique challenge: how to build a future‑ready workforce with the talent they already have while ensuring development approaches remain human-centered, flexible, and aligned with real career motivations.
Continue readingHR Chat w/Employco USA: Steps for Employers Facing 27 Pay Periods in 2026
In this HR Chat, Rob and Jason discuss an unusual payroll situation employers may face in 2026 — the possibility of 27 pay periods for organizations running biweekly payroll schedules. They explain why this occurs based on the calendar, how it can affect employee pay and salary calculations, and what employers should consider when planning payroll adjustments.
Contact hr@employco.com to discuss payroll planning, compliance questions, or other HR support needs.
Schedule a 15-minute call with Griffen Wilson for more information on our services.
Podcast: Workplace Safety w/Josh Loudermilk
In this month’s HR Podcast, Rob, Scott, and Jason are joined by special guest Josh Loudermilk, who oversees Loss Control and Client Relations at Employco, to discuss workplace safety and OSHA compliance. They explore how employers can reduce risk through stronger safety programs, build a proactive safety culture, identify common workplace hazards, and take practical steps to improve compliance while protecting employees.
For support with workplace safety, OSHA compliance, and HR strategy, contact hr@employco.com.
HR Chat w/Employco USA: College Grads’ Job-Finding Advantage Shrinks to Historic Low
In this HR Chat, Rob and Jason break down recent labor market trends affecting entry-level hiring and what employers should be paying attention to right now. They cover what’s behind the changing outlook for recent graduates, how this is showing up in recruiting efforts, and what organizations can do to stay competitive in a tighter talent market.
Contact hr@employco.com to discuss hiring strategies and workforce planning.
Schedule a 15-minute call with Griffen Wilson for more information on our services.
HR Newsletter: State Legislative Updates
California Updates Employment Status and Reimbursement Rules for Vehicle Use – On Oct. 11, 2025, the governor approved Senate Bill (SB) 809, which reaffirmed that mere ownership of a vehicle—personal or commercial—used by a person providing labor or services for remuneration does not make that person an independent contractor. The law took effect on Jan. 1, 2026.
Continue readingHR Newsletter: HR Edge (Q1 2026)
We recently released our latest HR Edge newsletter. This quarter’s newsletter covers the following topics:
- 4 Wellness Trends Reshaping the Employee Experience
- Fertility Benefits on the Rise
- Getting Employee Buy-in on AI
Click the following link to access: HR Edge (Q1 2026).
Continue readingHR Newsletter: From the HR Hotline
Our HR department continues to provide expertise and serve as a valuable resource for navigating the pressing challenges employers face today. This team fields questions each day from employers seeking answers to their HR questions.
In recent months, employers have sought guidance on Affordable Care Act reporting deadlines, the health savings account expansion, Trump Accounts, and benefits open enrollment. While answers to these topics can vary based on locality, employer, and individual circumstances, federal agencies offer guidance that can aid employers in addressing day-to-day challenges in the workplace.
Continue readingHR Newsletter: OBBBA & Taxes – New Overtime FAQs
To help individuals better understand the new deductions for qualified overtime compensation under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), the U.S. Department of the Treasury (Treasury) and the IRS issued frequently asked questions (FAQs) on Jan. 23, 2026.
On July 4, 2025, President Donald Trump signed a tax and spending bill commonly referred to as the OBBBA into law. Among other provisions, the OBBBA allows certain workers an above-the-line deduction for “qualified tips” and “qualified overtime compensation” for taxable years beginning after Dec. 31, 2024, and ending for taxable years beginning after Dec. 31, 2028.
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Question: Are companies required to pay an employee while the person is waiting to work?
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