October 2016 
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Is Your Business Ready For The New DOL Overtime Rules?


Is your business prepared to undertake new overtime rules that will be set into place on December 1, 2016?  If you are fined because of non-compliance, your business insurance will not provide coverage.  Business insurance policies are not designed to cover government fines.

The US Department of Labor (DOL) released the final rule that raises the white-collar overtime exemption threshold under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA).  

The new regulations take effect on Dec. 1, 2016. Your business will need to start tracking hours for exempt salaried employees who make under $47,476.
Businesses that will be most affected will be those in the hospitality industry, nonprofits, retail, manufacturing and any agribusiness.

Options for employers
  • Pay these employees time and a half for overtime.
  • Increase workers' compensation above the minimum.
  • Limit work hours to 40 per week.
Fact sheets and other materials to help employers and workers understand how the rule will affect them and the broader economy are available  dol.gov/overtime.
Here is a link to the Department of Labor's web page. Click here





Make Halloween Safe for Everyone


In the next few days, we will be watching children scramble from house to house in search of the elusive Halloween treat.  However, keeping our kids safe as they are out Halloween night is always a concern.  A little pre-planning can prevent unfortunate accidents that could turn out to be tragic. 

Remember, your  homeowner's insurance will cover you in most cases should someone trip and fall on your premises. 

Here are some pointers for ensuring your house is a safe place for trick-or-treaters on Oct. 31.

  • Provide healthier treats for trick-or-treaters such as low-calorie treats and drinks. For your guests, offer a variety of fruits and vegetables.
  • Be sure walking areas and stairs are well-lit and free of obstacles that could cause someone to fall.
  • Keep candle-lit jack o'lanterns and luminaries away from doorsteps, walkways, landings, and curtains. Place them on sturdy tables, keep them out of the reach of pets and small children, and never leave them unattended.
  • Remind drivers to watch out for trick-or-treaters and to drive safely.