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What steps should I take to comply with Georgia employment laws when hiring new employees?

Picture of Chris Battis By   ·  1 minute read

To comply with Georgia employment laws when hiring new employees, you should take the following steps:

  1. Verify Employment Eligibility: Under federal immigration law, all employers are required to complete Form I-9 to verify the employment eligibility of every new employee hired. Failure to comply with these requirements can result in civil penalties and fines. Additionally, it is important to ensure that you do not hire unauthorized workers in violation of federal and state laws.

  2. Comply with Employment Discrimination Laws: Georgia employers are prohibited from discriminating against job applicants on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or genetic information. You should ensure that your employment practices and policies are compliant with state and federal anti-discrimination laws. Further, it is essential to have a written nondiscrimination policy, which should be provided to all employees.

  3. Develop an Employee Handbook: An employee handbook should be created to state the employer's policies and procedures, and communicate company expectations. Ensure that the handbook addresses issues such as sexual harassment, dress code, and employee discipline.

  4. Comply with Wage and Hour Laws: Georgia’s minimum wage is currently $7.25 per hour. Employers also need to comply with federal and state wage and hour laws, including overtime requirements.

  5. Ensure Safety at the Workplace: Employers have a duty to provide a safe workplace for employees. It is important to create and implement workplace safety policies, establish and maintain hazard communication programs, and provide necessary employee training.

  6. Obtain Workers' Compensation Insurance: Georgia employers with three or more employees are required to carry workers' compensation insurance. The insurance covers medical expenses and lost wages in the event of an on-the-job injury or illness.

Overall, employers should take proactive measures to remain compliant with employment laws when hiring new employees. Consult an experienced employment attorney for further guidance to ensure compliance with any legal requirements not mentioned above.