2023 was a busy year for federal, states and local governments, which passed multiple laws addressing discrimination, workplace violence, employee and customer data privacy and more. To assist HR, EHS and Legal compliance professionals in navigating these challenges, Traliant covered these topics in timely blog posts. 

Here are the 10 most popular blog posts in 2023, which can be a source of information and inspiration in the new year.  

California and Texas Take the Lead in Requiring Workplace Violence Protection Plans, Reporting & Training 
California and Texas recently passed laws requiring employers to take specific actions to prevent and respond to workplace violence. Read what you need to know about mandated workplace violence plans, reporting and training to stay legal and compliant. 

Speaking up is Essential to Creating an Ethics Culture 
Employees should feel it’s their duty to speak up when they suspect unethical conduct, and employers should create a safe environment for them to do that. Creating psychological safety at work gives employees the confidence to speak up to foster a culture of ethics.  

Only Half of US Companies are Prepared to Meet State Data Privacy Laws 
As more states enact consumer data privacy laws, a new report finds that less than half of organizations are prepared to meet them. How about your company? Are you complying with consumer and employee privacy laws in the states where you operate? If not, you’re at risk of costly penalties and fines.  

6 Safety Essentials That Every HR Professional Plays A Role In 
Regardless of who “owns” an organization’s safety program, HR should at the very least be involved. When workers know that HR professionals are knowledgeable about health and safety issues, it creates a trusted environment where workers feel empowered to speak up to create a safer workplace. 

Growing List of States Enacting the CROWN Act in 2023 
On January 31, 2023, Minnesota joined a growing list of states that have enacted the CROWN Act, which prohibits discrimination based upon a person’s hair texture or hairstyle. Employers with employees in jurisdictions where CROWN Act laws are in place should review their handbooks, training materials, dress codes and grooming policies to ensure they don’t violate governing law.

Identifying Forms of Sexual Harassment is Paramount to Prevention 
Varying work environments and forms of sexual harassment can make it hard for targeted individuals and bystanders to recognize inappropriate behavior when it occurs. Industry tailored training with real-life scenarios help employees & managers identify, disrupt and report all types of sexual harassment to foster a safer, more respectful work environment. 

What You Should Know to Comply with the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act 
In June of 2023, the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA) became effective to expand the right to workplace accommodation for pregnant employees. Employers should update policies, processes and handbooks covering job-related accommodation and train HR staff, managers and supervisors on how to respond to accommodation requests.  

Evolving State Marijuana Laws Should Prompt Employers to Revisit Workplace Policies 
As states enact new marijuana laws, employers should respond by updating their policies, handbooks and drug testing procedures, while also ensuring employees and managers are trained on how to recognize and report signs of impairment. 

New California Law Grants Job-Protected Leave for Reproductive Loss  
Beginning Jan 1, 2024, private and public California employers are required to grant employees up to five days of leave following a reproductive loss event. In preparation for the new law, employers should update their policies, procedures and employee handbook to ensure workers are aware of their rights and managers know how to handle leave of absence requests. 

How Financial Wellness Training Helps Lower Stress, Increase Productivity  
Promoting financial wellness has emerged as a key benefit for both employees and employers. It reduces stress to enable employees to focus on work and be more productive, which benefits the bottom line.