Retaliation claims remain one of the most frequent and difficult employment issues to defend. Learn the legal basics, protected activities, and 8 key best practices—including strong no-retaliation policies, prompt investigations, consistent documentation, and legal oversight—to help employers reduce risk and maintain compliance.
Avoiding Workplace Retaliation Claims: Essential Best Practices for Employers Read More »
Minnesota’s Paid Leave Program (often referred to as Minnesota Paid Leave) officially took effect on January 1, 2026, creating a statewide paid family and medical leave benefit for most employees working in Minnesota. The law provides partial wage replacement and job protection for qualifying family and medical events. The Upshot Key features of the law
The U.S. Department of Justice’s January 14, 2026 lawsuit against the State of Minnesota continues the evolving relationship between civil rights law and workplace DEI efforts. Filed under Title VII, the complaint challenges Minnesota’s long‑standing affirmative action framework for state employment—arguing that the state’s use of race‑ and sex‑conscious hiring goals, demographic availability analyses, and
What the DOJ’s Challenge to Minnesota’s Affirmative Action Means for Workplace DEI Read More »
In the wake of any crisis, stress and tensions run high. As a result, employers may be inclined to communicate prematurely, over- or under-communicate, or otherwise communicate without thinking about the potential legal repercussions that could follow (for example, regulatory scrutiny, shareholder lawsuits, employee lawsuits, etc.). To avoid a misstep that might compound a crisis,
With Minnesota’s new break law and paid leave requirements taking effect on January 1, many business leaders like yourself are navigating increased compliance demands – from mandatory meal/rest breaks to updated wage notices and potential penalties for non-compliance. At Synergy HR, we specialize in helping Midwest businesses and professional organizations (like law firms, CPA firms,
Partner with Midwest HR Experts Backed by Employment Law Counsel Read More »
As a reminder to all our clients and friends, please ensure that you are complying with this requirement. The Minnesota Department of labor has recently announced if they will be auditing employers to ensure they are meeting their requirements. This regulation is separate and distinct from the Wage Theft Law. if you have any questions
Reminder: Compliance with Minnesota’s Employee Wage Notice Requirement Read More »
To handle pre-existing leave that transitions to Minnesota’s Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML), continue benefits, and track leave usage as the new law takes effect in 2026, you must first ensure that any leave taken in 2025 is counted against the employee’s prior leave entitlements and that leave starting in 2026 is subject to the
Recent changes to Minnesota’s Earned Sick and Safe Time (ESST) law, effective July 1, 2025, include modifying rules on how employees can find replacement workers by trading shifts and allowing employers to advance ESST hours to new employees starting January 1, 2026. The amendments also adjust how employers can require notice for unforeseeable absences. The
Minnesota ESST Law: Key Changes Effective July 2025 & January 2026 Read More »
Minnesota Paid Leave starts Jan 1, 2026—up to 20 weeks paid for family/medical needs. Nov 15 private plan deadline! Synergy HR ensures compliance with legal-backed guidance.
Minnesota Paid Leave: Employer Checklist for 2026 Launch Read More »
Starting Jan 1, 2026, MN employers must provide 30-min unpaid meal breaks & 15-min paid rest breaks—or face double damages. Synergy HR ensures compliance.
Minnesota’s New Break Law (Effective Jan 1, 2026) Read More »
