Given the uncertain economic future facing the United States and the rest of the world, it shouldn’t be surprising that a survey of company executives conducted by Honeywell Intelligrated found that while many may wish to be on the leading edge when it comes…
The IRS warns employers to be careful when using third-party payroll services because choosing the wrong one can end up being very expensive indeed. IRS Commissioner Chuck Rettig explained to employers, "A business doing everything else right can suddenly…
Voters in California stemmed their state’s assault on independent contractors a bit by approving a referendum reasserting contractor status for those who work for ride share companies. The referendum campaign had been mounted by Uber, Lyft and DoorDash after…
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has broadened the definition of “close contact” for purposes of Covid 19 contact tracing and quarantining requirements, which could cause headaches for employers. Originally, the CDC had defined a “close…
Intermodal turned a corner in the third quarter, according to a report by the Intermodal Association of North America. Total intermodal volumes rose 1.2% year-over-year during the quarter. At the same time, domestic containers and trailers both gained 9.8%…
The Chemical Activity Barometer, the leading economic indicator created by the American Chemistry Council, rose 0.9% in October on a three-month moving average (3MMA) basis, a marked deceleration from the 1.5% gain in September and 2.6% gain in August. On a…
Although consumer holiday spending is expected to be down slightly from last year, it still should still be quite healthy, especially given this year’s pandemic and economic downturn. Consumers plan to spend an average of $997.79 on gifts, holiday items such…
A strong rebound in apparel led a continuing V-shaped recovery from the pandemic as retail sales accelerated their rate of growth in September and marked the fourth straight month of year-over-year gains, according to a report issued by the National Retail…
A voluntary, comprehensive, and uniform federal paid leave framework is necessary to meet the needs of a modern, 21st Century workplace, the Society for Human Resource Management recently told federal policymakers. Comments filed with the Department of Labor…
The explosive growth of online shopping ignited by the Coronavirus also is speeding up the trend of shopping malls and large retail spaces being converted into warehouses and distribution centers. Investors and developers are looking to conversions in a bid…
A bill introduced recently by Sen. Josh Hawley (R-MO), would require large companies to report on and eliminate forced labor in their supply chains. Although not likely to pass in its present form, the initiative is evidence of rising interest among…