Do you have the right policies in place for 2025?

HR policies are as crucial to your business as the laws of the land.

They provide your organization with written guidance on how employees should behave and your expectations.

You can rely on them if you have an issue with an employee and they can support you in any employment-related legal challenges.

For that reason, it’s incredibly important that your policies are up to date for the year ahead.

Especially since employment laws can change or be updated from year-to-year.

While some policies are legally required, others are recommended to promote best practices and align with organizational objectives. In the United States, employment policies fall into three basic categories: federal, state and optional. Federal and state policies cover compliance with federal and state employment laws. Voluntary policies are those which aren’t dictated by any law.

Here are some policies that companies need related to federal law:

Code of Conduct

Sets expectations for employee behavior and professionalism within the workplace.

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO)

Applies specifically to workplace harassment and discrimination and ensures everyone is treated fairly during an employment decision.

Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA)

Outlines employee rights regarding minimum wage, overtime, record keeping and child labor.

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)

Outlines what employees are entitled to in relation to leave under the FMLA.

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

Employers must establish policies to consider and provide reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals with disabilities under the ADA.

Title VII of the Civil Rights Act

Companies need to develop a policy and associated procedures for handling complaints related to this law.

Data Protection and Privacy Policy

Ensures compliance with data protection laws, safeguarding personal information.

Immigration Reform and Control Act (IRCA)

IRCA places a legal requirement on employers to complete a Form I-9 for each individual they hire onto their payroll. That form confirms an employee’s identity and eligibility to work within the United States.

Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA)

Employers are required to develop and implement policies for a safe work environment, such as fire safety and work-related injury policies.

Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA)

Requires companies to have policies securing employee health data. In addition, a policy is required to provide notice to employees about privacy practices relating to their health information.

Internet and Email Usage Policy

Regulates the use of company IT resources to ensure appropriate and secure usage.

Drug and Alcohol Policy

Addresses substance misuse and outlines support mechanisms and disciplinary actions.

We're here to help

Regularly reviewing and updating these policies ensures that they remain relevant and compliant with current legislation. An employee handbook is an ideal document that will communicate all Federal, State, and voluntary policies to your employees.

For detailed guidance on what policies your business needs and for a review of your 2025 employee handbook, please get in touch with us today.