f you’re working in Westchester County, you’ve got to know your stuff when it comes to employment law. There are a lot of rules and regulations out there to help keep you safe and happy on the job, especially in this bustling and diverse job market. At the end of the day, it all comes down to understanding the give-and-take relationship between you and your employer. Luckily, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll give you the lowdown on the key employment laws you need to know in Westchester County. From healthcare to education and beyond, Carey & Associates, P.C. will help you navigate the legal landscape and stay on top of your game.
Here are some key employment laws in Westchester County:
Minimum Wage and Overtime:
Knowing the employment regulations in place to protect your rights at work is important if you work in Westchester County. Given the variety of employment options in many industries, it’s critical to understand the legal framework that governs the interaction between employers and employees.
Employees in Westchester County are entitled to receive overtime pay for any hours worked over 40 hours in a workweek. The overtime rate is one and a half times the employee’s regular rate of pay.
Discrimination:
In Westchester County, it’s not just the scenic landscape that’s diverse – the workforce is too! The county has made it illegal for employers to discriminate against their employees based on their differences. Whether it’s your race, gender, age, religion, or sexual orientation, the law’s got your back. If you ever feel like you’ve been unfairly treated, don’t hesitate to speak up. You can file a complaint with either the New York State Division of Human Rights or the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.
Sexual Harassment:
In Westchester County, it is also against the law to engage in anything that may be considered sexual harassment at work. So, if there is any sexual harassment an employee encounters, which may include unwanted advances, remarks, or physical contact, report it to their employer or the human resources division.
Family and Medical Leave:
According to the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), qualified workers in Westchester County are allowed to take up to 12 weeks of unpaid time off each year for specific family and medical reasons, such as the birth of a child, a serious health condition, or to care for a family member who has a serious health condition.
Final thoughts:
Employees in Westchester County should be aware of their legal rights under these employment laws and should speak up if they feel those rights are being abused. Employers who break these regulations may face legal consequences, such as fines and other penalties.
