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What are my legal obligations to my employees in Pennsylvania?

In Pennsylvania, employers are required to comply with federal and state employment laws, which include but are not limited to the following:

  1. Workers' Compensation: Employers are required to provide their employees with workers' compensation insurance coverage. This insurance covers any work-related injuries or illnesses that employees may sustain while on the job.
  2. Wage and Hour Laws: Pennsylvania employers must comply with both the federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and state wage and hour laws, which require employers to pay their employees in accordance with minimum wage and overtime regulations. Employees must also be paid on a regular basis, usually bi-weekly or monthly, and employers must keep accurate records of hours worked.
  3. Discrimination and Harassment: Employers must comply with state and federal anti-discrimination and harassment laws, including Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Americans with Disabilities Act, and the Age Discrimination in Employment Act. Employers must provide a workplace free from discrimination and harassment based on an individual's race, color, gender, religion, national origin, age, or disability.
  4. Family and Medical Leave: Employers with 50 or more employees are required to provide eligible employees with up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave for certain family or medical reasons, such as caring for a newborn child or a serious health condition.
  5. Time Off: Employers must provide their employees with time off for certain reasons, such as voting, jury duty, and military leave.
  6. Occupational Safety and Health: Pennsylvania employers must provide a safe working environment free from recognized hazards that cause or are likely to cause death or serious physical harm.

It is important to note that this list is not exhaustive, and employers should consult with a licensed attorney to ensure full compliance with all applicable laws and regulations. Employers who fail to comply with these laws may face legal penalties, including fines and possible litigation.