Ground Rules: Employment Law Over Your Coffee Break

In this episode of Ground Rules, the hosts discuss the implications of employees working second jobs, particularly in remote work settings. They explore the legal considerations, the importance of having clear policies in place, and the need for effective communication between employers and employees. The conversation also touches on the significance of job descriptions, performance monitoring, an...

This conversation provides a comprehensive overview of the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA), discussing its implications, scope, and the responsibilities of employers. The hosts emphasize the misleading nature of the act's name, the importance of understanding its broad coverage beyond just pregnant workers, and the necessity for employers to be aware of their obligations under the law. T...

In this episode, the hosts sit down with Ben Earwicker, Director of the Idaho Human Rights Commission (IHRC), to discuss best practices for responding to IHRC complaints, common pitfalls, and what employers can expect when working with the Commission. The discussion also covers the evolving role of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) under the current administration, key changes in...

 In this episode of Ground Rules , the hosts are joined by special guest J.J. Despain, an immigration attorney from Wilner O’Reilly. The discussion focuses on key immigration issues affecting employers in 2025, including increased ICE enforcement and I-9 compliance. J.J. shares insights on best practices for employers, proactive measures to ensure compliance, and how to handle audits or unexpected...

In this conversation, the hosts discuss the critical role of employee handbooks in navigating employment law and workplace operations. They emphasize the importance of having updated policies to address new laws, workplace culture, and the need for clear guidelines to manage employee behavior and expectations. The discussion also highlights common pitfalls in handbook creation and the necessity of...

 In this episode, host Pam, Jennifer, and Doug discuss the latest trends and updates from the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). They explore recent executive orders, including one rolling back certain gender identity protections and another emphasizing merit-based hiring. The discussion highlights potential shifts in EEOC enforcement priorities, the impact of Supreme Court rulings, a...

In this episode of Ground Rules, the hosts discuss the current legislative landscape in Idaho and its implications for employers. Special guest Megan Egbert, a representative with the Idaho Legislature, shares insights on various topics including non-compete agreements, whistleblower protections, the Idaho Human Rights Act, and the impact of DEI initiatives. The conversation also touches on concer...

In this episode, Pam, Jennifer, and Doug discuss the critical issue of workplace harassment, focusing on the EEOC Checklists and Chart of Risk Factors for Employers. They explore how power disparities, coarsened social discourse, and alcohol consumption can impact workplace culture. The conversation emphasizes the importance of training, leadership engagement, and staying updated on legal changes...

In this episode of Ground Rules, the hosts discuss the complexities of love in the workplace, particularly around the legal implications of workplace romances. They explore the concept of power disparity, the role of the EEOC in addressing workplace harassment, and the importance of having clear policies in place. The conversation also covers the idea of love contracts as a potential tool for mana...

In this episode, the hosts and special guest Jennifer Hooft discuss the recent executive orders related to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) and their implications for employers and business practices. They explore the importance of maintaining fairness in the workplace, the impact of political changes on workplace culture, and the necessity of legal compliance and risk management. The conver...

In this episode, the hosts discuss the role of the EEOC in enforcing employment laws and the importance of workplace investigations. They highlight recent trends in EEOC cases, particularly regarding employers' failures to adequately investigate complaints. The conversation emphasizes the need for employers to take complaints seriously, conduct thorough investigations, and ensure proper train...

In this episode of Ground Rules, the hosts discuss various aspects of employment law with guest Emily McMaster, who provides insights from her experience representing both employers and employees. The conversation covers trends in employment law, the complexities of equal protection claims, the impact of religious beliefs and sexual orientation on workplace dynamics, and the importance of creating...

In this episode, Pam, Jennifer, and Doug discuss significant changes in employment law that occurred in 2024 and what to expect in 2025. They cover various topics including new EEOC regulations, the implications of the DOL's salary basis threshold changes, and the evolving landscape of LGBTQ+ protections in the workplace. The conversation highlights the challenges employers face in navigating...

In this inaugural episode of the Ground Rules podcast, hosts Pam Howland, Doug Plass, and Jennifer Walrath discuss the importance of understanding employment law to avoid litigation. They share insights from their experiences as employment lawyers, emphasizing the high costs and stress associated with lawsuits. The conversation highlights the need for compliance training for supervisors and the ev...