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  • There are several issues on the state ballot for the 2022 election that could have significant implications for employers. The ballot considers measures on abortion, marijuana, minimum wage, and unions which were put to vote in 37 states on November 8th, 2022. Keep reading to learn how these issues will affect your business.

    Abortion

    In the wake of the U.S. Supreme Court ruling of Roe v. Wade, individual states can now decide whether to prohibit abortion or keep it legal. The court overturned Roe v. Wade, which protected the right to have an abortion throughout the country in the past 49 years. You may be wondering, how does this affect my business? Access to abortion affects employers and HR in crucial areas such as:

    • Health benefits
    • Paid and unpaid leave
    • Recruiting
    • Retention

    Marijuana Legalization

    Throughout the U.S., there are 19 states and the District of Columbia that have legalized marijuana. At the same time, 37 states use marijuana products for medical usage. Voters in Arkansas, Missouri, North Dakota, and South Dakota will have a chance to place their vote on this year’s ballot to permit the recreational use of marijuana. As an employer, it’s essential to consider that marijuana laws vary from state to state. As a result, reviewing the drug and alcohol policies is vital to ensure you remain compliant.

    Unions

    Over the past year, we have seen many companies implement unionization into their business. The ballot measures would create a state’s constitutional right to collective bargaining. In contrast, the ballot may prohibit employers from requiring employee labor unions. Employers would not be able to require membership for employees in their terms of employment.

    Minimum Wage

    Minimum wage reforms can be seen on the ballot for voters in Nebraska, Nevada, and Washington, D.C. These states are looking to increase the minimum wage of hourly workers. If passed, labor costs would increase for employers, making it prominent in industries with many hourly, low-wage workers, such as food service and hospitality.

    Equal Rights

    Equal rights protections have recently become more common at the state level. Currently, 21 states have equal rights amendments, and six have limited gender equality provisions. The ballot measure would prohibit discrimination based on sex, race, color, sexual orientation, religion, gender identity, age, disability, ancestry, and national origin.

    Count On GMS Experts

    As an employer, it is vital to understand the outcomes of election day. Legislative changes may be overwhelming, but you may have to consider them. After all, you probably did not go to school to become an HR specialist. Luckily, you don’t have to worry; GMS has you covered. When you partner with GMS, you gain a reliable team to ensure that your business remains compliant. Contact GMS today to learn more.

  • After the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, President Biden’s supporters voiced for him to push harder to protect abortion access. In response, on July 8th, 2022, President Joe Biden signed an executive order designed to ensure access to abortion medication and emergency contraception while preparing for legal fights. He has made it clear that the only way to secure a woman’s right to choose is for Congress to restore the protections of Roe as federal law.

    The executive order will build from the actions his administration has already taken to defend the rights of women by:

    • Safeguarding access to reproductive health care services (abortion and contraception).
    • Protecting the privacy of patients and their access to correct information. 
    • Promoting the safety and security of patients, providers, and clinics. 
    • Organizing the implementation of Federal efforts to protect reproductive rights and access to health care.

    For more information, click here. 

    Additional Actions To Protect Access To Reproductive Health Care

    The Biden-Harris Administration has taken additional steps to protect access to reproductive health care and defend reproductive rights by:

    • Supporting providers and clinics
    • Promoting access to accurate information
    • Providing leave for Federal workers traveling for medical care
    • Protecting access to reproductive health care services for service members, oD civilians, and military families

    While there will be many legal challenges from pro-life supporters, this executive order directs the Attorney General and the White House counsel to “convene a meeting of private pro bono attorneys, bar associations, and public interest organizations” to encourage robust legal representation.

    Stay In The Know!

    The last thing you want as a business owner is to miss a new law or regulation that could impact your business. The uncertainty of the economy today makes it challenging for businesses to grow their business. By partnering with GMS, you have access to experts that handle that for you. Stay in the know while growing your business. Contact us today.