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Monthly Archives: April 2010

How Private Are Employees’ Electronic Communications?

Posted in Privacy

Most employers provide their employees with all sorts of technology, including Blackberries, Internet access, and email accounts.  And all of this technology typically flows through the employer’s network and servers. Because this technology is the employer’s property, it’s reasonable to assume that the employer can monitor and review employees’ emails, text messages, IMs, etc., sent and received… Continue Reading

The End of Class Arbitration?

Posted in Litigation

Many employers require that employees agree in writing to arbitrate any disputes that may arise in connection with their employment. The reason is simple: arbitrating employment disputes usually is less expensive and provides a quicker resolution than litigation. However, like litigation, arbitration can sometimes be unpredictable. This presents a problem because, unlike litigation, it is… Continue Reading

Unpaid Internships, Under Increased Scrutiny

Posted in Wage & Hour

 Lately, many regulators have begun to scrutinize unpaid internship programs. For years, unpaid internships provided students and other individuals entering the workforce with an opportunity to learn about a business. However, with the recession, employment agencies have been checking whether an unpaid internship is really a job in disguise. Regulators are very concerned about circumstances… Continue Reading

COBRA Subsidy Extended

Posted in Legislation

As expected, on April 15, 2010 President Obama signed into law an extension of the COBRA premium subsidy through May 31, 2010 (Continuing Extension Act of 2010).  An individual is eligible for the subsidy if the individual elects COBRA coverage after an involuntary termination of employment. Eligible individuals pay only 35 percent of their COBRA… Continue Reading