Employment Law Issues

WORKERS RIGHTS Employers must post notices informing workers of several rights. BOLI sells composite posters with all notices for minimal cost: http://www.oregon.gov/boli/TA/pages/t_tabooks.aspx#top.

WAGE AND HOUR BASICS You should determine whether you have any employees who are classified as “exempt” from wage and hour laws by reviewing the criteria here: http://www.oregon.gov/boli/TA/pages/t_faq_taclass.aspx.

If your employees are not exempt, then you must:

Give them meal and rest breaks: http://www.oregon.gov/boli/TA/pages/t_faq_meal_and_rest_period_rules.aspx;
Pay minimum wage: http://www.oregon.gov/boli/TA/Pages/T_FAQ_Minimum-Wage.aspx; and
Pay overtime: http://www.oregon.gov/boli/TA/pages/t_faq_taovrtim.aspx

If you are thinking of bringing on an unpaid intern or trainee, pay close attention to the criteria that must be met: http://www.oregon.gov/boli/TA/pages/t_faq_interns.aspx

WORKERS COMPENSATION You will need to obtain workers compensation insurance coverage for all employees. Learn more here: http://www.cbs.state.or.us/wcd/communications/publications/2531.pdf