Embracing the Latest in Employee Benefits and SHRM Insights - November 2023
November 07, 2023
Embracing the Latest in Employee Benefits and SHRM Insights - November 202
Nov23 Digital Issue of HR Professionals Magazine
NOARK November Newsletter 2023
November 03, 2023
Click Here to download a PDF of our November 2023 Newsletter and stay up-to-date with NOARK.
March Diversity & Inclusion Update
March 01, 2023
March is Women’s History Month! This month honors the role that women like Dorothea Dix, Susan B. Anthony, Jane Cooke Wright, Mary Tape and so many others have played in American history.
February Diversity & Inclusion Update
February 01, 2023
The month of February is full of famous birthdays and history from the past.
January Diversity & Inclusion Update
December 27, 2022
Let’s start the year off right by highlighting some diversity dates for the first month of the year.
Check out our December Newsletter 2022
December 08, 2022
Download a PDF of our December 2022 Newsletter and stay up-to-date with NOARK.
December Diversity & Inclusion Update
November 28, 2022
December marks an important time of year for many groups of people around the world. Find time this month to learn and share about different types of celebrations!
Check out our November Newsletter 2022
November 15, 2022
Download a PDF of our November 2022 Newsletter and stay up-to-date with NOARK.
November Diversity & Inclusion Update
November 01, 2022
As Thanksgiving approaches, this is a fitting November diversity celebration. Native American Heritage Month celebrates the culture and heritage of native people who enrich this country.
Check out our October Newsletter 2022
October 17, 2022
Download a PDF of our October 2022 Newsletter and stay up-to-date with NOARK.
October Diversity & Inclusion Update
September 30, 2022
Heading into the holiday season, Financial Planning Month reminds us to keep our spending in check and prepare our budgets.
Check out our September Newsletter 2022
September 06, 2022
Download a PDF of our September 2022 Newsletter and stay up-to-date with NOARK.
September Diversity & Inclusion Update
September 06, 2022
Every day is a great time to change the world – and create greater equity and inclusion – with a small act of kindness or celebration of diversity.
Check out our August 2022 Newsletter
August 09, 2022
Download a PDF of our August 2022 Newsletter and stay up-to-date with NOARK.
August Diversity & Inclusion Update
August 07, 2022
August is Family Fun Month.
Use your imagination, spend time together and have fun !!
Post on social media using #FamilyFunMonth to encourage others to join in.
Check out our July 2022 Newsletter
July 11, 2022
Download a PDF of our July 2022 Newsletter and stay up-to-date with NOARK.
July Diversity & Inclusion Update
July 07, 2022
Every day is a great time to change the world – and create greater equity and inclusion – with a small act of kindness or celebration of diversity.
Check out our June 2022 Newsletter
June 06, 2022
Download a PDF of our June 2022 Newsletter and stay up-to-date with NOARK.
June Diversity & Inclusion Update
June 03, 2022
If you’re a new ally to the LGBTQ+ community, welcome! June is Pride Month, and you’ll be seeing rainbows to signify this all month long.
HR Professional Magazine - May 2022
May 11, 2022
Don't miss the May 2022 digital issue of HR Professionals Magazine featuring great articles about Payroll and HR Technology.
Check out our May 2022 Newsletter
May 09, 2022
Download a PDF of our May 2022 Newsletter and stay up-to-date with NOARK.
May Diversity & Inclusion Update
May 04, 2022
This May diversity month theme raised awareness for individuals living with mental or behavioral issues and seeks to reduce the stigma that they experience.
Check out our April 2022 Newsletter
April 12, 2022
Download a PDF of our April 2022 Newsletter and stay up-to-date with NOARK.
April Diversity & Inclusion Update
April 12, 2022
Did you know that April is diversity month? It was officially designated as diversity month in 2004, and it strives to help people gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of each other and their differences.
Check out our March 2022 Newsletter
March 09, 2022
Download a PDF of our March 2022 Newsletter and stay up-to-date with NOARK.
March Diversity & Inclusion Update
February 24, 2022
March is Womens History Month, National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, and National Multiple Sclerosis Education and Awareness Month.
Check out our February 2022 Newsletter
February 08, 2022
Download a PDF of our January 2022 Newsletter and stay up-to-date with NOARK.
Check out our January 2022 Newsletter
January 11, 2022
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Check out our December 2021 Newsletter
December 01, 2021
Download a PDF of our December 2021 Newsletter and stay up-to-date with NOARK.
December Diversity & Inclusion Update
December 01, 2021
December includes holidays such as International Human Rights Day and International Day of Persons with Disabilities.
Check out our November 2021 Newsletter
November 10, 2021
Download a PDF of our November 2021 Newsletter and stay up-to-date with NOARK.
November Diversity & Inclusion Update
November 08, 2021
November is National Native American Heritage Month and National Family Caregivers Month.
October Diversity & Inclusion Update
October 11, 2021
October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month, LGBT History Month, and Global Diversity Awareness Month.
September Diversity & Inclusion Update
September 14, 2021
Hispanic Heritage Month is observed from September 15 to October 15. This month corresponds with Mexican Independence Day, which is celebrated on September 16, and recognizes the revolution in 1810 that ended Spanish dictatorship.
Check out our September 2021 Newsletter
September 14, 2021
Download a PDF of our September 2021 Newsletter and stay up-to-date with NOARK.
Check out our August 2021 Newsletter
August 09, 2021
Download a PDF of our August 2021 Newsletter and stay up-to-date with NOARK.
August Diversity & Inclusion Update
August 02, 2021
We celebrate diversity in August with several faith-based and patriotic celebrations.
Check out our July 2021 Newsletter
July 09, 2021
Download a PDF of our July 2021 Newsletter and stay up-to-date with NOARK.
July Diversity & Inclusion Update
July 06, 2021
We celebrate diversity in July with several faith-based and patriotic celebrations.
Check Out our June 2021 Newsletter
June 08, 2021
Download a PDF of our June 2021 Newsletter and stay up-to-date with NOARK.
June Diversity & Inclusion Update
May 26, 2021
June is Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Pride Month, established to recognize the impact that gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender individuals have had on the world.
HR Professional Magazine - May 2021
May 12, 2021
Don't miss the May 2021 digital issue of HR Professionals Magazine featuring great articles about Payroll and HR Technology.
May Diversity & Inclusion Update
May 11, 2021
We celebrate diversity in May with Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, Older Americans Month, Jewish American Heritage Month, and Mental Health Awareness Month, as well as a variety of daily celebrations.
Check out our May 2021 Newsletter
May 11, 2021
Download a PDF of our May 2021 Newsletter and stay up-to-date with NOARK.
Check out our April 2021 Newsletter
April 07, 2021
Download a PDF of our April 2021 Newsletter and stay up-to-date with NOARK.
April Diversity & Inclusion Update
March 23, 2021
April is Celebrate Diversity Month, started in 2004 to recognize and honor the diversity surrounding us all. By celebrating differences and similarities during this month, organizers hope that people will get a deeper understanding of each other.
HR Professionals Magazine
March 09, 2021
Don't miss the February digital issue of HR Professionals Magazine featuring great articles about Payroll and HR Technology.
Check out our March 2021 Newsletter
March 09, 2021
download a PDF of our March 2021 Newsletter and stay up-to-date with NOARK.
HR Professionals Magazine
February 15, 2021
Don't miss the February digital issue of HR Professionals Magazine featuring great articles about Payroll and HR Technology.
Check out our February 2021 Newsletter
February 15, 2021
download a PDF of our February 2021 Newsletter and stay up-to-date with NOARK.
Press Release: Productivity While Working from Home During COVID-19
January 11, 2021
download the latest press release from Noark about Productivity While Working from Home During COVID-19.
Check out our January 2021 Newsletter
January 11, 2021
download a PDF of our January 2021 Newsletter and stay up-to-date with NOARK.
Pandemic Workforce Trends Survey Results are In!
January 06, 2021
During the period of October 8 – November 8, 2020, NOARK - The Northwest Arkansas Human Resources Association conducted a survey of its members and affiliates in northwest Arkansas to determine workplace trends during the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic.
Check out our November 2020 Newsletter
November 10, 2020
Download a PDF of our November 2020 Newsletter and stay up-to-date with NOARK.
Fill out the NOARK Workplace Trends Survey
October 15, 2020
The NWA Human Resources Association (NOARK) is committed to help businesses in NWA to get reliable data on the impact, new practices and initiatives a result of pandemic. Please take 15 minutes to fill out this survey and provide your precious input.
Check out our October 2020 Newsletter
October 06, 2020
Download a PDF of our October 2020 Newsletter and stay up-to-date with NOARK.
Check out our August 2020 Newsletter
August 10, 2020
Download a PDF of our August 2020 Newsletter and stay up-to-date with NOARK.
HR2020 & ELLA will not be held until 2021
July 21, 2020
Arkansas SHRM understands the challenges related to the COVID-19 virus, as well as the current workplace policy changes and restrictions due to the illness. The welfare of our membership and conference attendees is of utmost concern.
With this in mind, the Arkansas SHRM 2020 HR Conference and Expo and Arkansas SHRM Employment Law and Legislative Conference (ELLA) will not take place on October 12-15, 2020.
FMLA forms available
July 20, 2020
Find all current FMLA forms on the Department of Labor website. https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/fmla/forms
New 941
July 17, 2020
The IRS released a revised Form 941, Employer’s Quarterly Federal Tax Return, and its instructions to be used beginning with the second quarter of 2020 (due July 31, 2020). The form has been updated to accommodate reporting of COVID-19-related employment tax credits and other relief.
Check out our July 2020 Newsletter
July 07, 2020
Download a PDF of our July 2020 Newsletter and stay up-to-date with NOARK.
Governor Hutchinson Signs Three Executive Orders Concerning COVID-19 Liability and Workers' Compensation Coverage
June 25, 2020
Information courtesy of Cross, Gunter, Witherspoon & Galchus, P.C.
Check out our June 2020 Newsletter
June 15, 2020
Download a PDF of our June 2020 Newsletter and stay up-to-date with NOARK.
Check out our May 2020 Newsletter
May 05, 2020
Download a PDF of our May 2020 Newsletter and stay up-to-date with NOARK.
NOARK's Sheila Moss Featured in HR Professionals Magazine
April 06, 2020
Sheila Moss has been featured on the cover of the May 2020 HR Professionals Magazine.
Check out our February 2020 Newsletter
February 13, 2020
Download a PDF of our February 2020 Newsletter and stay up-to-date with NOARK.
2020 NOARK President Interviewed
February 03, 2020
2020 NOARK President Sheila Moss Interviewed by 40/29 News
Check out our January 2020 Newsletter
January 28, 2020
Download a PDF of our January 2020 Newsletter and stay up-to-date with NOARK.
Check out our December 2019 Newsletter
December 16, 2019
Download a PDF of our December 2019 Newsletter and stay up-to-date with NOARK.
Check out our November 2019 Newsletter
November 13, 2019
Download a PDF of our November 2019 Newsletter and stay up-to-date with NOARK.
Check out our October 2019 Newsletter
October 11, 2019
Download a PDF of our October 2019 Newsletter and stay up-to-date with NOARK.
Need SHRM and HRCI Recertification Business Credits? We've Got a Class for That!
September 25, 2019
Classes offered at UARK online and in person.
Check out our September 2019 Newsletter
September 09, 2019
Download a PDF of our September 2019 Newsletter and stay up-to-date with NOARK.
Check out our August 2019 Newsletter
August 13, 2019
Download a PDF of our August 2019 Newsletter and stay up-to-date with NOARK.
Check Out Our June 2019 Newsletter
June 27, 2019
Download a PDF of our June 2019 Newsletter and stay up-to-date with NOARK.
Check Out Our May 2019 Newsletter
May 07, 2019
Download a PDF of our May 2019 Newsletter and stay up-to-date with NOARK.
Leadership NWACC Program Earns Best Practices Award
April 25, 2019
NorthWest Arkansas Community College’s (NWACC) human resources employee development program, Leadership NWACC, was recently recognized for Best Practices in Human Resources at the 2019 Arkansas state Society of Human Resources Managers (SHRM) Conference in Hot Springs.
Upcoming Training Opportunities
April 25, 2019
CGWG is offering the following seminars and webinars.
Check Out Our April 2019 Newsletter
April 02, 2019
Download a PDF of our April 2019 Newsletter and stay up-to-date with NOARK.
Check out our March 2019 Newsletter
March 13, 2019
Download a PDF of our March 2019 Newsletter and stay up-to-date with NOARK.
OSHA Issues Final Rule on Electronic Workplace Injuries and Illness Reporting
February 27, 2019
On January 25, 2019, the Occupational Health and Safety Administration ("OSHA") issued its final rule on the Tracking of Workplace Injuries and Illnesses.
Check out our February 2019 Newsletter
February 13, 2019
Download a PDF of our February 2019 Newsletter and stay up-to-date with NOARK.
Diversity: Why Talk About Words?
February 08, 2019
Sticks and stones are not the only things that may be hurtful. Words can significantly impact our interaction with others. Regardless of our motive and intentions, they may harm or enhance dialogue.
Check out our January 2019 Newsletter
January 31, 2019
Download a PDF of our January 2019 Newsletter and stay up-to-date with NOARK.
ARKANSAS MINIMUM WAGE INCREASE PASSES: FIRST INCREASE SET FOR JANUARY 2019
November 08, 2018
Arkansas voted to increase the state's minimum wage rate.
NWA Talent Development Survey
November 08, 2018
NOARK members, Grandslam Performance Associates needs our help! Please help us gain key insights into the learning and development needs and preferences of our NWA professionals.
Check out our November 2018 Newsletter
November 06, 2018
Download a PDF of our November 2018 Newsletter and stay up-to-date with NOARK.
CHECK OUT OUR OCTOBER 2018 NEWSLETTER
October 10, 2018
Download a PDF of our October 2018 Newsletter and stay up-to-date with NOARK.
CHECK OUT OUR September 2018 NEWSLETTER
September 12, 2018
Download a PDF of our September 2018 Newsletter and stay up-to-date with NOARK.
Check out our August 2018 Newsletter
August 09, 2018
Download a PDF of our August 2018 Newsletter and stay up-to-date with NOARK.
Check out our July 2018 Newsletter
July 10, 2018
Download a PDF of our July 2018 Newsletter and stay up-to-date with NOARK.
Arkansas Supreme Court Reverses and Dismisses Lower Court Ruling - Clears Road for Medical Marijuana
June 25, 2018
On Thursday, the Arkansas Supreme Court reversed and dismissed a lower court's ruling that prevented State officials from issuing cultivation licenses to businesses, which would allow these businesses to grow marijuana.
Check out our June 2018 Newsletter
June 14, 2018
Download a PDF of our June 2018 Newsletter and stay up-to-date with NOARK.
Check out our May 2018 Newsletter
May 11, 2018
Download a PDF of our May 2018 Newsletter and stay up-to-date with NOARK.
Research Opportunity
February 09, 2018
You are invited to be part of a research study. The researcher is a doctoral learner at Capella University in the School of Education. The purpose of this study is to explore and identify selection factors that influence hiring of internal and external coaches by HR Professionals.
Check Out Our July 2017 Newsletter!
July 11, 2017
Download a PDF of our July 2017 Newsletter and stay up-to-date with NOARK.
Supreme Court Unanimously Extends the
June 09, 2017
On June 5, 2017, the U.S. Supreme Court issued an 8-0 decision (with new Justice Gorsuch not participating as this case was argued and decided prior to his joining the Court) holding that qualified retirement plans maintained by church-affiliated organizations are considered "church plans," even if the plan was originally established by a non-church entity. The decision in Advocate Health Care Network v. Stapleton reversed the decisions of several lower courts, including the appellate courts of the Third, Seventh and Ninth Circuits.
Check Out Our June 2017 Newsletter!
June 05, 2017
Download a PDF of our June 2017 Newsletter and stay up-to-date with NOARK.
The SHRM Learning System® for PHR®/SPHR® Certification Preparation
February 08, 2017
The SHRM Learning System® for PHR®/SPHR® Certification Preparation
United States Supreme Court Rules That Same Sex Couples Have A Right to Marry
February 08, 2017
On June 26, 2015, the United States Supreme Court issued a landmark ruling in Obergefell v. Hodges, in which it held that same sex couples have a Constitutional right to marry.
NWA Employee Solutions Summit--A must attend event!!!
January 18, 2017
Does your company rely on hourly employees? Is the lack of reliable, hard-working hourly employees affecting your business, bottom line and STRESS level? Would you like to attract more (and better) applicants, hire the super-stars, and retain them longer in 2016? If so, the NWA Employee Solutions Summit is for you!
OFCCP Proposes Updated Regulations on Sex Discrimination
January 17, 2017
Executive Order 11246. These obligations include ensuring nondiscrimination in employment on the basis of sex, taking affirmative action to employ diverse applicants, and ensuring all employees are treated without regard to their sex.
2016 Standard Mileage Rates for Business, Medical and Moving Announced
January 17, 2017
WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service today issued the 2016 optional standard mileage rates used to calculate the deductible costs of operating an automobile for business, charitable, medical or moving purposes.
OSHA Clarifies Employers' Recordkeeping Obligations
January 03, 2017
In the final days of the Obama Administration, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has issued a final rule that "clarifies" its position that an employer's duty to record work-related injuries and illnesses is an ongoing obligation that continues for the full five-year record retention period.
New Fee Schedule For Immigration Benefits
December 28, 2016
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is adjusting the fee schedule for immigration filings processed by US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). USCIS conducted a comprehensive fee review and determined that current fees do not recover the full cost of services provided. The new fee schedule will go into effect on December 23, 2016. Any petition received on or after December 23rd must contain these new fees or USCIS will reject the petition.
Check Out Our December 2016 Newsletter!
December 06, 2016
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Check Out Our November 2016 Newsletter!
October 31, 2016
Click here to download a PDF of our November 2016 Newsletter and stay up-to-date with NOARK.
Check Out Our September 2016 Newsletter!
October 07, 2016
Click here to download a PDF of our September 2016 Newsletter and stay up-to-date with NOARK.
Check Out Our August 2016 Newsletter!
August 08, 2016
Click here to download a PDF of our August 2016 Newsletter and stay up-to-date with NOARK.
Check Out Our July 2016 Newsletter!
July 11, 2016
Click here to download a PDF of our July 2016 Newsletter and stay up-to-date with NOARK.
NEW OSHA REPORTING RULE
June 28, 2016
By August 10, 2016, employers must amend their injury and illness policies to (a) expressly state that employees have a right to report work-related injuries and illnesses, (b) provide a reasonable procedure for employees to report such workplace injuries and illnesses, (c) not deter or discourage employees from reporting such injuries and illnesses, and (d) assure employees that the employer will not discriminate against nor retaliate against them for making such reports.
OSHA Takes Hard Stance Against Automatic Post-Injury Drug Testing Policies
June 20, 2016
Under the Occupation Safety and Health Administration's (OSHA) new rule to Improve Tracking of Workplace Injuries and Illnesses, many employers risk citation by OSHA for post-injury drug testing policies that were once encouraged by courts and federal agencies, but might now be prohibited.
Check Out Our June 2016 Newsletter!
June 08, 2016
Click here to download a PDF of our June 2016 Newsletter and stay up-to-date with NOARK.
MEET THE 2016 NOARK BOARD
June 06, 2016
Q: Patti as 2016 NOARK President we would like to know what keeps you up at night?
7th Circuit Rules Class Arbitration Waivers Are Unenforceable
June 03, 2016
Employment agreements containing arbitration clauses that restrict the rights of employees to initiate class arbitration, and instead confine them to seeking individual relief, have become more popular in the last decade, and with good reason. Using them has benefits for employers and, because arbitration is generally favored in the eyes of the law as a way of resolving disputes, these clauses tend to be upheld more often than not.
Do Your Employment Agreements Comply with the Defend Trade Secrets Acts of 2016?
May 24, 2016
This week, President Obama signed into law the Defend Trade Secrets Act of 2016. This new law does not replace current state laws on trade secrets; instead, it merely gives parties a potential new venue to pursue trade secret claims. Remedies include injunctive relief, actual damages, “exemplary damages” in cases in which a trade secret is “willfully and maliciously misappropriated,” attorney’s fees to the prevailing party in certain situations, and even ex parte seizure of “property necessary to prevent the propagation or dissemination of...trade secrets” in very limited circumstances.
Check Out Our May 2016 Newsletter!
May 12, 2016
Click here to download a PDF of our May 2016 Newsletter and stay up-to-date with NOARK.
CROSS, GUNTER, WITHERSPOON & GALCHUS, P.C.
April 01, 2016
Yesterday, Cross, Gunter, Witherspoon & Galchus, P.C., joined by Associated Builders and Contractors of Arkansas and its national organization, the Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce/Associated Industries of Arkansas, the Arkansas Hospitality Association, the Coalition for a Democratic Workplace, and the National Association of Manufacturers, filed suit against the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) to prevent enforcement of the new "Persuader Rule" regulations that were issued on March 24, 2016.
Check Out Our February 2016 Newsletter!
February 09, 2016
Click here to download a PDF of our February 2016 Newsletter and stay up-to-date with NOARK.
DOL to Treat More Entities as Covered by the FMLA via Joint Employment
January 27, 2016
In connection with last week's Administrator's Interpretation 2016-1 regarding Joint Employment (under the Fair Labor Standards Act) the Department of Labor (DOL) Wage and Hour Division (WHD) issued a new fact sheet regarding "Joint Employment and Primary and Secondary Employer Responsibilities Under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)." This Fact Sheet sets forth the DOL's position that "[e]mployees who are jointly employed by two employers must be counted by both employers in determining employer coverage and employee eligibility under the FMLA, regardless of whether the employee is maintained on one or both of the employers' payrolls."
Supreme Court Reaffirms Limits on Benefit Plan Subrogation Claims
January 25, 2016
In its latest case examining the scope of employee benefit plan subrogation rights, the U.S. Supreme Court held that a benefit plan cannot enforce its claim for reimbursement of expenses from a participant's settlement proceeds where the participant spends all of the proceeds and, as a result, there is no specific, identifiable fund against which the plan can enforce its claim. The case, Montanile v. Board of Trustees of the National Elevator Industry Health Benefit Trust, generally follows, and reaffirms, the Court's prior decisions in this area. However, the practical effect may force benefit plans to be more aggressive in enforcing subrogation rights before participants have an opportunity to spend settlement funds.
DOL To Embrace Many New Companies As
January 22, 2016
Despite fun and inviting cartoons atop its news release early Wednesday morning, the Department of Labor ("DOL") Wage and Hour Division ("WHD") is making life neither fun nor inviting for companies who share or lease workers, or use workers from staffing companies.
Check Out Our January 2016 Newsletter!
January 12, 2016
Click here to download a PDF of our January 2016 Newsletter and stay up-to-date with NOARK.
NLRB Invalidates Another Employer Conduct Policy
January 12, 2016
On December 24, 2015, in Whole Foods Market, Inc., 363 NLRB No. 87 (2015) (Whole Foods), the National Labor Relations Board (Board) invalidated two Whole Foods Market policies that prohibited employees' use of recording devices in the workplace to record events, conversations, etc., without company authorization. The Board reasoned that such a blanket prohibition requiring management approval to record could prevent employees from engaging together in workplace activities protected by the National Labor Relations Act (Act).
HRCI INTRODUCES FIRST EARLY HR CAREER CERTIFICATION
January 07, 2016
HR CERTIFICATION INSTITUTE™ INTRODUCES FIRST EARLY HR CAREER CERTIFICATION Credential Designed for New HR Generalists and Individuals Transitioning to HR HRCI Unifies Family of Credentials by Renaming Certifications for HR Pros Practicing Outside of the U.S. ALEXANDRIA, Va. (January 7, 2016) ― HR Certification Institute™ (HRCI™), the premier professional credentialing organization for the human resources profession, is introducing the first early HR career certification, the Associate Professional in Human ResourcesSM (aPHRSM). The aPHR, which demonstrates foundational knowledge of human resource operations as practiced in the United States, is designed for professionals who are embarking on an HR career or transitioning into the HR field.
EARN 9 Recertification Credits right now!!!
December 22, 2015
Access the following free resources and earn up to 9 recertification credits NOW.
E-Verify changes to website...Take Action by 12/31/2015!!!
December 17, 2015
Have you been using E-Verify more than 10 years?
Check Out Our December 2015 Newsletter!
December 08, 2015
Click here to download a PDF of our December 2015 Newsletter and stay up-to-date with NOARK.
Recent Third Circuit Decision Regarding Joint Employers Extends Liability for Violation of Title VII to the Clients of Staffing Companies
November 25, 2015
On November 18, 2015, the United States Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit issued a decision regarding joint employers that extends liability for violations of Title VII to the clients of staffing companies. In the case of Matthew Faush v. Tuesday Morning, Inc., the Third Circuit found that the client of a staffing company could be considered a temporary worker's employer and therefore liable for alleged violation of Title VII.
Cobb-Vantress Inc: Recipient of a 7 Year Accumulative Safety Award.
November 16, 2015
Leon Jones, Jr., Director of the Arkansas Department of Labor, has announced that Cobb-Vantress Inc., Bates Mountain Farm, a division of Tyson Foods, Inc., located in Summers, is the recipient of a Seven (7) Year Accumulative Safety Award.
Revised Definition of "Small Employer" Impacts Some Employer Sponsored Health Plans
October 14, 2015
The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act ("PPACA") treats a "small employer" differently than a large employer for many purposes. No single definition applies in determining when an employer is considered a small employer.
Check Out Our October 2015 Newsletter!
October 05, 2015
Click here to download a PDF of our October 2015 Newsletter and stay up-to-date with NOARK.
The NLRB Now Allows the Filing of Authorization Cards Electronically
September 23, 2015
Proper evidence must be presented to the National Labor Relations Board ("NLRB") to demonstrate a sufficient "showing of interest" in order to establish there is necessary support as required by the National Labor Relations Act (the "Act") to proceed with a representation election. The purpose of the demonstration of an adequate showing of interest is to determine whether the conduct of an election will serve a useful purpose under the Act, i.e., whether there is sufficient employee interest to warrant the expenditure of the time, effort and resources of the NLRB in conducting an election for union representation. This requirement has been called an important safeguard against the potential for abuse of election procedures.
One Million Hours of Safety Celebrated by Springdale Dayco's Products
September 23, 2015
Dayco Products' tensioner manufacturing facility and technical center of Springdale celebrated Tuesday one million work hours without a lost time accident mark, an achievement last met at the site in March 2011.
OFCCP Announces Final Rule Protecting Discussion Of Employee Compensation
September 14, 2015
On September 10, 2015, the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP), a division of the Department of Labor (DOL), issued a Final Rule protecting employees who "inquire about, discuss, or disclose their own compensation or the compensation of another employee or applicant" from adverse employment actions in the workplace. The so-called "pay secrecy ban" applies to almost all federal contractors that enter into new, or modify existing, federal contract(s) in excess of $10,000 after January 1, 2016.
Immigration Law Update
September 11, 2015
The Department of State (DOS) and the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced yesterday revised procedures for individuals waiting to file for Adjustment of Status (AOS).
Check Out Our September 2015 Newsletter!
September 10, 2015
Click here to download a PDF of our September 2015 Newsletter and stay up-to-date with NOARK.
Check Out Our August 2015 Newsletter!
August 11, 2015
Click here to download a PDF of our August 2015 Newsletter and stay up-to-date with NOARK.
Check Out Our June 2015 Newsletter!
August 10, 2015
Click here to download a PDF of our June 2015 Newsletter and stay up-to-date with NOARK.
Frequently Asked Questions Regarding the
July 27, 2015
On June 25, 2015, in King v. Burwell, the United States Supreme Court again rejected a major challenge to the Affordable Care Act ("ACA"). With this decision, the ACA is here to stay and employers should immediately begin planning for its implementation and consider what impact it may have on their current and future health care benefits.
Status Update: 6 DOL Guidelines For Independent Contractor Classifications
July 22, 2015
Misclassification of employees as independent contractors is found in an increasing number of workplaces in the United States, in part reflecting larger restructuring of business organizations. When employers improperly classify employees as independent contractors, the employees may not receive important workplace protections such as the minimum wage, overtime compensation, unemployment insurance, and workers' compensation. Misclassification also results in lower tax revenues for government and an uneven playing field for employers who properly classify their workers. Although independent contracting relationships can be advantageous for workers and businesses, some employees may be intentionally misclassified as a means to cut costs and avoid compliance with labor laws.
Check Out Our July 2015 Newsletter!
July 08, 2015
Click here to download a PDF of our July 2015 Newsletter and stay up-to-date with NOARK.
IMMIGRATION LAW ALERT!!!
June 25, 2015
Bureau of Consular Affairs Currently Experiencing Passport / Visa Systems Errors
HR's flu season concerns: absenteeism, presenteeism, vaccinations, and employment law
June 25, 2015
According to the Centers for Disease Control, the flu season “most commonly peaks in the U.S. in January or February.” In its last weekly flu advisory report, the agency reported that flu is widespread in more than half of the country and many states are reporting severe outbreaks. The CDC says “the proportion of people seeing their health care provider for influenza-like illness [has] increased significantly, and is above the national baseline” for this time of year. Reports of increasing hospitalizations and death are coming in from across the country, many of them caused by the H1N1 strain. Also known as the “swine flu,” H1N1 is the strain of flu behind the 2009 flu pandemic.
Northwest Arkansas Business Journal Honors Women in Business--Cammie Scott!!!
June 22, 2015
Northwest Arkansas Business Journal honors Cammie Scott with the Women in Business award
U.S. Embassies And Consulates Abroad Unable To Process Visa Requests
June 19, 2015
On June 15, 2015, the U.S. Department of State issued an alert stating:
OSHA Issues Guidelines Regarding Restroom Access For Transgender Employees
June 19, 2015
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), which requires that all employers under its jurisdiction provide employees with sanitary and accessible toilet facilities, has issued guidelines regarding restroom access for transgender employees. OSHA advises that all employees should be permitted to use restroom facilities that correspond with the employee's gender identity. According to OSHA, each employee should determine the most appropriate and safest option for himself or herself.
School of Innovation--Supplies List
June 14, 2015
The Springdale School of Innovation is a technology-rich STEM School. It embraces flexible and blended learning, allowing for a self-paced and project-based learning environment that promotes student success.
NOARK Member(s) graduate Leadership Fayetteville... Congrats!!!
June 03, 2015
Fayetteville, AR – Leadership Fayetteville Class XXVIII graduated on May 14, 2015. The annual Leadership Fayetteville program exists to create a foundation from which its graduates can further expand their involvement within the Fayetteville community.
Texas Businesses Lose Bid to Challenge Ambush Election Rule; Union Election Petitions on the Rise!!!
June 02, 2015
On June 1, 2015, a Texas federal court ruled against the Associated Builders and Contractors of Texas and other plaintiffs who were challenging the National Labor Relations Board's ambush election rule, which significantly shortens the period of time that employers and employees have to prepare for a union election after receiving an election petition. The business group-plaintiffs claimed that the NLRB's rule violated the Administrative Procedure and National Labor Relations Acts, but the Texas Court ruled that the plaintiffs failed to show how the rule violated either Act.
Supreme Court Rules in Abercrombie Religious Accommodation Case!!!
June 02, 2015
U.S. Supreme Court held that employment decisions cannot be motivated by an applicant's religious practice, regardless of whether an employer had actual knowledge of an applicant's need for an accommodation for the religious practice.
Check Out Our May 2015 Newsletter!
June 02, 2015
Click here to download a PDF of our May 2015 Newsletter and stay up-to-date with NOARK.
Check Out Our April 2015 Newsletter!
June 02, 2015
Click here to download a PDF of our April 2015 Newsletter and stay up-to-date with NOARK.
OSHA's revised Hazard Communication requirements in effect as of June 1
June 02, 2015
Hazard Communication Standard in 2012 with the global standard for chemical product labeling. The provisions for labeling offer workers better protection from chemical hazards, while also reducing trade barriers and improving productivity for American businesses that regularly handle, store, and use hazardous chemicals
OSHA Unveils new version of "It's The Law" Poster
May 04, 2015
OSHA unveils new version of "It's the Law" poster to help prevent injuries and protect workers' rights
EEOC Offers Guidance on Employer Wellness Programs
April 20, 2015
The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has announced that it will publish a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) today, April 20, 2015, describing how the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) applies to wellness programs. Many employers offer incentivized workplace wellness programs designed to promote health and disease prevention, some of which incorporate biometric screenings and health risk assessments. The proposed rule will provide guidance on the use of financial incentives to encourage participation in wellness programs-without violating federal law.
Sixth Circuit Deals The EEOC A Major Loss In Years-Long
April 20, 2015
The United States Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals Holds Regular And Predictable On-Site Job Attendance Is An Essential Function Of Former Employee's Job With Ford.
DOL Issues Much-Anticipated Fiduciary Definition and Conflicts of Interest Rule
April 16, 2015
After numerous fits and starts, and some awkward backtracking, the Department of Labor (DOL) proposed its new revised fiduciary definition rule on April 14, 2015. Labor Secretary Thomas Perez stated that the new rule is intended to force advisers and consultants working with retirement plan sponsors, plan participants or other fiduciaries and IRA owners to put their clients' best interest ahead of their personal interest and curb the "corrosive power of fine print and high fees." The proposed rule has the potential to significantly increase the scope of who would qualify as a "fiduciary" under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) and the Internal Revenue Code (Code), and consequently would be subject to the duties and obligations, not to mention the liabilities, of a fiduciary (including being subject to lawsuits) under those laws.
United States Supreme Court Decides Young v. United Parcel Service, Inc.
March 26, 2015
On March 25, 2015, the United States Supreme Court issued its highly anticipated decision in Young v. United Parcel Services, Inc., 575 U.S. ____, (2015). Employers had hoped this decision would clarify whether employees with work related injuries were "similar in their ability or inability to work" for the purposes of determining the accommodation required for a pregnant employee under the Pregnancy Discrimination Act ("PDA"). The PDA requires employers to treat "women affected by pregnancy . . . the same for all employment-related purposes . . . as other persons not so affected but similar in their ability or inability to work." 42 USC § 2000e(k). However, despite a ruling from the Court, employers are left without a bright-line rule as to whether, and under what circumstances, employers that offer limited light duty to non-pregnant employees must offer the same light duty to pregnant employees.
DOL Final Rule Provides Flexibility on Annual Participant Fee Disclosure Requirements
March 20, 2015
Current Department of Labor (DOL) regulations require 401(k) plan administrators to provide fee and expense disclosures regarding plan investment options where participants have the ability to direct some or all of their investments. These disclosures must be initially provided to participants on or before the date the participants become eligible to direct their investments in the plan and "at least annually thereafter." Additional guidance from the DOL clarified that "at least annually thereafter" means at least once in any 12-month period after the prior disclosure was provided.
NLRB Guidance
March 20, 2015
The National Labor Relations Board's (NLRB) General Counsel issued a long-awaited, 30-page memorandum on Wednesday offering employers guidance on crafting policies and rules that will not be deemed unlawful by the NLRB. This memo is applicable to all employers subject to the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA), regardless of whether they have union-represented employees.
Getting the Right People on the Team: Interviewing for Competency and Fit
March 19, 2015
This popular seminar will allow attendees to grasp the value of getting and keeping the right people on their team by providing skills to interview for competency and fit. The speaker will also touch on avoiding common interview traps and knowing the law in order to limit liabilities. Attendees will leave being able to identify the components of great on-boarding and why it is vital to business success.
LYNN TROWBRIDGE is the WINNER of the ARSHRM Conference Registration Giveaway!!!
March 18, 2015
Be a part of the “In Crowd” and join NOARK’s "CLUB 15" to support the SHRM Foundation
Check Out Our March 2015 Newsletter!
March 17, 2015
Click here to download a PDF of our March 2015 Newsletter and stay up-to-date with NOARK.
Banks Beware!!!
March 17, 2015
On March 9, 2015, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in favor of the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL), holding that the Department validly rescinded its own rules regarding mortgage loan officers. This ruling is significant for businesses in the financial services industry: the DOL does not consider mortgage loan officers to be exempt under the administrative exemption.
SHRM Foundation Fundraiser Rescheduled to March 18th!!!
March 10, 2015
Please join us at Mojito’s in Rogers on March 18, 2015 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. for a networking event to support the SHRM Foundation.
New Guide for E-Verify Employer Agents
March 10, 2015
On March 8, 2015, E-Verify published the new Supplemental Guide for E-Verify Employer Agents . This new guide replaces the E-Verify User Manual for E-Verify Employer Agents and the E-Verify Quick Reference Guide for E-Verify Employer Agents. These two documents are now retired.
BE A PART OF NOARK's Club 15
March 03, 2015
Be a part of the “In Crowd” and join NOARK’s "CLUB 15" to support the SHRM Foundation.
H-1B Visa Filing Season is Here!
February 18, 2015
February has rolled around again, so it's time to start working on H-1B petitions that must be filed on April 1 for eligibility under the H-1B cap.
Meeting Spaces Available in Bella Vista
January 28, 2015
FREE informative event to be held on February 13th at the Bella Vista Country Club.
Crowder College, McDonald County Campus Career Fair-March 6th!!!
January 20, 2015
Crowder College’s McDonald County campus in Jane MO, is seeking local business and industry to participate in a Career Fair to be held on March 6th, from 10:00am to 6:00pm. Crowder is partnering with the Northwest Arkansas and Southwest Missouri Workforce Investment Boards to provide the community with an opportunity to not only explore what educational opportunities Crowder has to offer, but to explore the region’s employment opportunities as well.
NLRB Names McDonald's as 'Joint-Employer' at its Franchisees
December 22, 2014
Move is Win for Unions' Effort to Hold Franchisers Liable for Labor violations by Store Owners
EEOC Sues Employers Over Wellness Programs, Despite Lack of Guidance
December 19, 2014
The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) filed lawsuits in 2014 against three employers, claiming that wellness programs sponsored by the employers violate the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA), primarily because the programs are not "voluntary" and impose penalties for employees who refuse or are unable to participate. However, the merits of these claims are difficult to evaluate because the EEOC has not issued guidance on what constitutes a "voluntary" wellness or health program. In addition, the EEOC's claims may conflict with wellness plan guidance issued by other federal agencies under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and the Health Insurance Portability and Affordability Act (HIPAA).
Integrity Staffing Solutions, Inc. v. Busk
December 18, 2014
Holding: The time spent by warehouse workers waiting to undergo and undergoing security screenings is not compensable under the Fair Labor Standards Act, as amended by the Portal-to-Portal Act.
Employees May Use Company Email for Protected Concerted Activity!!!
December 15, 2014
The National Labor Relations Board (Board) held that an employer must "presumptively" permit employees' use of the employer's email for statutorily protected communications on nonworking time, if the employer gives employees access to the employer's email systems. Purple Communications, 361 NLRB No. 126 (2014).
NLRB Announcing Ambush Elections Rule
December 12, 2014
Today, December 12, the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) issued a final rule designed to speed up the union election process. While SHRM is still reviewing the final rule, it appears to be virtually identical to the rule as proposed.
myE-Verify Teleconference Invitation
December 02, 2014
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) invites you to participate in a listening session on Tuesday, Dec. 16, from 2–3p.m. (Eastern) to discuss a new website for U.S. workers called myE-Verify.
EXECUTIVE ACTION ON IMMIGRATION
November 24, 2014
President Obama recently announced a series of Executive Actions that make several important administrative changes in the immigration process that will impact employers and foreign nationals alike in several important ways. The Executive Actions create a new deferred action program for certain parents of U.S. citizens; expand the 2012 Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program; increase the work options for spouses of certain visa holders; and seek to expand the visa options for highly-skilled immigrants.
IRS Issues Guidance-Certain
November 11, 2014
The IRS issued a notice on November 4, 2014 concluding that a health plan that does not provide substantial coverage for inpatient hospitalization and/or physician services will not qualify as a "minimum value" plan under the Affordable Care Act. Therefore, large employers that adopt such plans are subject to penalties under the Affordable Care Act for failure to offer a plan that provides minimum value. The IRS expects to issue additional guidance on this issue next year.
Breaking News: Employer Prohibited From Reimbursing Individual Plan Premiums Even On An After-Tax Basis
November 07, 2014
Simultaneously, additional FAQs were issued to clarify that employers may not offer employees with high claims risk a choice between enrollment in its standard group health plan and cash, as well as prohibiting the use of vendor sponsored Section 105 reimbursement plans as a way to assist eligible employees in accessing premium tax credits on the Marketplace.
Basic Supervisor Training in NWA-Fall 2014
November 06, 2014
Basic Supervisor Training – developed by the attorneys at Cross, Gunter, Witherspoon & Galchus, P.C. – is designed to help your company avoid legal action resulting from common HR issues, including:
Prevailing Wage Rates: Best Practices for compliance
November 06, 2014
The Davis-Bacon Act is an 80-year-old wage subsidy law administered and enforced by the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) that mandates prevailing wages for work performed on federally financed construction projects. Unfortunately, the law often raises more questions than it answers. This seminar, presented by CGWG attorneys Greg Northen, Donna Galchus and Joe Ramsey, will provide the practical guidance you need to avoid penalties and costly litigation.
Immigration Law Update
October 28, 2014
An I-94 is a record of arrivals for foreign nationals (not U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents, also called green card holders) coming into the U.S. on a temporary status. The I-94 is issued by a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer upon the arrival of the foreign national into the U.S.
E-Verify Record Disposal (10/02/14)
October 22, 2014
On January 1, 2015, E-Verify must dispose of transaction records that are over ten years old - those dated on or before December 31, 2004. E-Verify employers have until December 31, 2014, to download case data from the new “Historic Records Report” if they want to retain transaction data that is more than ten years old. For more information and guidance on downloading the Historic Records Report, see the Fact Sheet and Instructions for Downloading.
NEW! myE-Verify Website for Workers and Jobseekers!
October 15, 2014
On October 6th, USCIS announced the launch of myE-Verify, the new website that specializes in information and tools that serve the needs of workers and job seekers. Its features include the capability to create a unique, secure and personal myE-Verify account that gives access to the new Self Lock service. Self Lock lets users protect their identities by locking their social security numbers to prevent unauthorized or fraudulent use within E-Verify. The new website also includes Self Check and multi-media resources for workers and jobseekers to learn about employee rights and employment eligibility verification from their perspective.
Federal District Court Regects EEOC's Challenge to CVS' Standard Separation Agreement
September 23, 2014
In February 2014, the EEOC filed an action against CVS Pharmacy claiming several standard provisions contained in CVS' separation agreement violated Title VII. CVS' five page single spaced separation agreement contained many standard provisions which the EEOC alleged violate Title VII, including:
Proposed DOL Secrecy Ban Protecting Discussion of Employee Compensation Issued Wednesday!!!
September 18, 2014
The Department of Labor (DOL), through its office of OFCCP, issued a proposed rule yesterday to amend Executive Order 11246, which prohibits discrimination and other employment practices by federal contractors. The DOL issued the rule in response to an order by President Obama back in April calling for new regulations designed to close the pay gap among men and women, as well as minorities. Generally, the proposed Rule will require that any entity with a federal contract in excess of $10,000 must incorporate a mandatory non-discrimination provision informing employees that the company does not "discriminate against employees and applicants who inquire about, discuss, or disclose their own compensation or the compensation of another employee or applicant." The Rule will require modifying existing contracts that do not already contain such provisions.
Preparing for Open Enrollment
September 15, 2014
As employers head into open enrollment, they face a number of administrative responsibilities as well as new challenges under the Affordable Care Act. While there isn't a one-size-fits-all approach, the following guidelines address some of the issues employers should consider this open enrollment season.
NLRB "LIkes" Facebook: Clicking "LIke" is Considered Protected, Concerted Activity
August 29, 2014
On August 22, 2014, the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB or the Board) issued a much-anticipated ruling with respect to social media in the workplace. In a case involving the termination of two employees for their participation in a Facebook discussion about claims that employees unexpectedly owed additional State income taxes because of the employer's withholding mistakes, the Board ruled that clicking the "Like" button on Facebook was protected, concerted activity shielded by the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA or the Act). Specifically, although the Board recognized that a "like" may be ambiguous, it takes the position that such conduct expresses agreement with the subject of the target posting and therefore can be considered protected, concerted activity. The "like" does not, however, reach subsequent comments unless each comment is individually "liked" as well.
Concerted Protective Activity
August 21, 2014
In Hollis Press Inc., 343 NLRB 301 (2004), the National Labor Relations Board held that an employee who filed a sexual harassment complaint with a state agency was not engaged in protected concerted activity when she solicited co-workers to be witnesses. In Fresh & Easy Neighborhood Market, Inc., 361 NLRB No. 12 (2014), the National Labor Relations Board reversed the holding in Hollis Press. The Board majority held that "an employee seeking the assistance or support of his or her coworkers in raising a sexual harassment complaint is acting for the purpose of mutual aid or protection. This decision applies equally to cases where. . . an employee seeks to raise that complaint directly to the employer, or . . . to an outside entity." Id. at 7.
NLRB Rules McDonald's is Co-Employer with Franchisees under NLRA
August 20, 2014
The NLRB's Office of the General Counsel has issued an important statement authorizing complaints for unlawful labor practices against McDonald's, USA, LLC and their franchisees. In it, the General Counsel may have taken a new approach in how the NLRB will handle employee charges against franchisors and franchisees, by treating the franchisor and the franchisee as joint employers.
Fair Pay and Safe Workplace Executive Order
August 05, 2014
On July 31, 2014, President Barack Obama signed the Fair Pay and Safe Workplace Executive Order which will require prospective federal contractors report violations of 14 Federal laws and as yet unspecified state laws when bidding on service and supply contracts.
Additional $1M in funding to help Arkansas with winter storm recovery efforts awarded by US Labor Department
July 24, 2014
"Today's summer temperatures make the severe storms of the winter season hard to remember," said U.S. Secretary of Labor Thomas E. Perez. "But the work to recover from those severe storms continues and the federal funds we're awarding today will assist the state with completing this work."
U.S. Department of Labor Announces Increased FMLA Enforcement Efforts
July 22, 2014
In an unexpected announcement, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) Branch Chief Helen Applewhaite says the DOL will be increasing its enforcement of the FMLA by having more on-site visits by its investigators.
Hobby Lobby stunner: Supreme Court issues long-awaited ruling in birth-control dispute
June 30, 2014
Read more about the Hobby Lobby case here.
Supreme Court Rules A Public Employee's Testimony During Trial is Protected by the First Amendment
June 30, 2014
In Lane v. Franks, 13-483 (2014), the United States Supreme Court unanimously held that a public employee's testimony during a criminal proceeding was protected speech under the First Amendment.
SHRM BREAKING NEWS!!!
June 18, 2014
After more than 1,100 responses from our members, I am happy to announce that we have a name for the new SHRM certification.
A Hidden Workplace Epidemic: Prescription Painkillers' Impact
May 22, 2014
Register today for a FREE webinar on how prescription painkiller use may be impacting your company.
How to Be a Human Resource Strategic Business Partner
May 02, 2014
Position yourself as a strategic business partner in your organization by increasing your business acumen. Focusing on the knowledge, skills and abilities C-suite executives require in true business partners, this class will identify the financial tools you will need to succeed in the role of strategic advisor to the management team. You also will be introduced to data analysis concepts that will enable you to present information to management in meaningful ways.
Record Retention: To Keep or Not to Keep--That is the (Strategic) Question
May 02, 2014
All companies face it: What to keep and what to throw away? When to throw away? How to keep electronic records? This session is designed to answer those questions and provide guidelines for the scheduling of document destruction, the identification of documents that are no longer significant, general correspondence that does not influence policy or key business decisions or legal opinions. Referenced used include: American Records Management Association, the Society for Human Resource Management, the state of Arkansas and the US Department of Labor. An effective records management system can provide a level of protection for business leaders, HR professionals and shareholders.
Why Social Responsibility @Work/Why Now?
May 02, 2014
A recent Forbes survey in which the following was reported: 32% of employees would seriously consider leaving their job if their company gave no/little money to charity; 65% would seriously consider leaving their job if their company harmed the environment; 83% would seriously consider leaving their job if their employer used child labor in sweatshop factories. Human resources professionals and business leaders are finding that more and more employees are expecting their employers to demonstrate commitment to socially responsible causes and initiatives. What was once extraordinary is now becoming the currency of business.
Getting Started with a Social Responsibility Plan @Work
May 02, 2014
A recent Forbes survey in which the following was reported: 32% of employees would seriously consider leaving their job if their company gave no/little money to charity; 65% would seriously consider leaving their job if their company harmed the environment; 83% would seriously consider leaving their job if their employer used child labor in sweatshop factories. Human resources professionals and business leaders are finding that more and more employees are expecting their employers to demonstrate commitment to socially responsible causes and initiatives. What was once extraordinary is now becoming the currency of business.
How to Be a Human Resource Strategic Business Partner: an Overview of Strategic HR Leadership
April 23, 2014
This class is designed to help position you as a strategic business partner in organizations by increasing your business acumen. Focusing on the knowledge, skills and abilities C-suite executives require in true business partners, this class will identify financial tools you will need to succeed in the role of strategic advisor to the management team. Additionally, you will be introduced to data analysis concepts that will enable you to present information to management in meaningful ways.
Sixth Circuit Rejects EEOC's Challenge to Kaplan Higher Education Corp.'s Use of Credit Checks During Hiring
April 15, 2014
In EEOC V. Kaplan Higher Education Corp., 13-2408 (2014), the Sixth Circuit rejected the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission's (EEOC) claim that Kaplan's use of credit reports discriminated against applicants because the credit reports had an adverse impact on African American applicants.
2015 H-1B Cap Has Been Reached
April 07, 2014
On April 7, 2014 the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced that between April 1, 2014 and April 7, 2014, the agency received more than enough applications for new H-1B visas for the 2015 fiscal year. Applications exceeded the quota, for both the regular 65,000 limit (also called a "cap") and the additional 20,000 quota for persons who have an advanced degree (more than a bachelor degree) from a US university. Because more applications than the quota permits were received for both Bachelor's and Master's cap cases in the first five business days of April, USCIS will use a lottery system to randomly select the number of petitions required to reach the numerical limit. USCIS will reject petitions that are subject to the cap and are not selected.
Obama Directs Initiative to Change Regulations on White-Collar Exemptions Under FLSA
April 01, 2014
President Obama recently signed a memorandum instructing the Department of Labor (DOL) to revise the regulations governing "white-collar exemptions" under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), which exempt certain employees from overtime requirements. The Administration's stated goal is to make more workers eligible for overtime and minimum wage by overhauling the existing regulations. However, others believe the President's initiative is motivated by his endeavors to increase the minimum wage by expanding the number of workers who are entitled to receive minimum wage and overtime pay.
NLRB Strikes Again...
March 06, 2014
Recently, the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) has stricken a number of employer handbook policies, including employers' confidentially policies. On February 6, 2014, the NLRB continued this trend by determining that MCPc, Inc., a technology product and service company, violated the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA) by maintaining an "overly broad" confidentially policy and by discharging an engineer for his protected concerted activity.
Changes Proposed for VETS-100A Form and OFCCP Publishes New FAQ's on VEVRAA and Section 503
March 06, 2014
It's been a busy week at the Department of Labor. DOL-VETS published a Notice for Proposed Rulemaking (NPR) identifying changes they'd like to make to the VETS-100A form.
H-1B Visa Filing Season is Here!
February 17, 2014
On April 1, 2014, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) will begin accepting applications for H-1B petition filings for Fiscal Year 2015. Due to the annual limit on the number of H-1B Visas that can be issued each fiscal year to employers subject to the cap, employers should be prepared to file their H-1B petitions promptly on April 1, 2014, which means contacting an immigration attorney prior to March 10, 2014, to allow for preparation time.
Can an Employee Insist That the Employer Pay for FMLA Medical Certification?
February 12, 2014
Let's put our heads together on this one. You see, it appears as though far too many employees have bought into the notion that their employer is always responsible for the cost of obtaining medical certification to support an FMLA-related absence. Case in point: just last week, a client called me for help after one of her employees simply refused to return medical certification because she didn't want to foot the $50 bill quoted by her physician for completing the certification form. She firmly believed her employer should pick up the tab.
NLRB Reissues Proposal for
February 12, 2014
On February 5, 2014, the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) reissued its proposal to radically shorten the time frame between when a union files a representation petition and an election takes place. In essence, this proposed rule will allow labor unions to "ambush" employers with union elections with little notice. Currently, the average time between a petition being filed and the election being held is 38 days. The NLRB's proposal (the "Ambush Rule") may shorten that time frame to as little as 10 days, which gives employers very little time to prepare itself for a union's petitioned election.
PPACA private plan enrollment hits 3 million
January 24, 2014
About 800,000 people signed up for private health plans through Obamacare in January, pushing total enrollment to 3 million as negative perceptions about the program give way to more practical needs.
NRLB Posting Rule Laid to Rest
January 24, 2014
The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) posting rule has been laid to rest.
Top 5 compensation lessons from 2013
January 24, 2014
Last year was a year of ups, downs, and shutdowns. The Affordable Care Act is still looming over us, the impact unclear. Some but not all companies are pulling free of the recession. Employees have continued moving around more and more since the official end of the recession. Yet amidst the turmoil, there are some key lessons. Essentially, in an uncertain time, compensation plans and strategies need to be flexible. In this article I’ll talk about the top 5 ways we can infuse flexibility into our programs.
The Eight Myths of Mediation
January 24, 2014
The Employers’ Counsel Network includes the attorneys from each state who write BLR’s state employment law newsletters. Marcus is one of the EEOC mediators based in the Boston office of the EEOC.
Forbes Tabs Bentonville Company Among America's Most Promising
January 24, 2014
A Bentonville company has been included in a Top 25 list of America’s Most Promising Companies for 2014.
Target to drop health insurance for part-time workers
January 24, 2014
(Bloomberg) -- Target Corp. said it will end health insurance for part-time employees, joining Trader Joe’s Co., Home Depot Inc. and other retailers that have scaled back benefits in response to changes from Obamacare.
Cargill To Pay $2.2 Million After Discrimination Claims In Springdale
January 24, 2014
Cargill Meat Solutions will pay out $2.2 million to applicants who were wrongfully rejected from job considerations at various facilities, including the plant in Springdale, according to the U.S. Department of Labor.
How Does the ACA Affect our W-2 Forms? Q&A
January 21, 2014
W-2 forms must be provided to your employees by January 31, and this is the second year health insurance should be reported on them. Make sure you know what the ACA requires employers to report and find out if your organization is exempt from the requirement.
Yahoo COO's dismissal prompts excessive pay questions
January 21, 2014
It took just a few hours, if that, for the questioning to begin after Yahoo Inc. fired its COO, Henrique de Castro.
New Laws for HR to Heed!!!
January 21, 2014
As HR managers begin the new year by updating their policy manuals, the Society for Human Resource Management has thoughtfully provided a list of new state laws that took effect on Jan. 1.
EEOC collects record $372M in workplace discrimination cases
January 21, 2014
Despite much moaning about discrimination against aging workers — particularly during the recent recession — stats from the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission suggest that two old standbys still receive the lion’s share of attention from the enforcement agency.
Closing gender wage gap would add billions to economy
January 21, 2014
The Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act, named after Lilly Ledbetter, was aimed at closing the gender wage gap.
Does An Employer Own Its Employees' Linkedin Profiles?
January 19, 2014
On March 12, 2013, the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania ("the Court"), determined in Eagle v. Morgan, that, absent a policy to the contrary, an employee's LinkedIn account is not the property of the employer. The decision means that employers, in general, should not have an ownership expectation in their employee's LinkedIn accounts, and an employer's attempt to lock the employee out of his account after termination may lead to legal ramifications. Furthermore, while the issue was not before the Court, the Court noted that, even if a policy is in place, it may not be legally enforceable due to LinkedIn's User Agreement, which states that, even if an employee uses a LinkedIn account on behalf of a company, the employee is nevertheless individually bound by the User Agreement.
Top 10 OSHA trends to watch in 2014
January 19, 2014
Given the political climate these days in Washington, DC, we decided not to post a list of top OSHA predictions for 2014. But, we are much more confident about sharing our “watch list” concerning OSHA for the upcoming year.
State Update: Taxation on Same-Sex Spouses
January 19, 2014
In the wake of Revenue Ruling 2013-17 issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), a number of states have released guidance regarding state income taxation issues in relation to same-sex spouses.
National Labor Relations Board: Wal-Mart Violated Labor Rules
January 19, 2014
WASHINGTON — Federal officials have filed a formal complaint charging that Wal-Mart violated the rights of protesting and striking workers last year.
Latest Developments in Employment Law and Affirmative Action Compliance
January 19, 2014
Cross, Gunter, Witherspoon & Galchus, P.C., in conjunction with Lighthouse Compliance Solutions, will host a joint seminar to update our clients about the latest developments in employment law, affirmative action compliance, hiring trends and much more.
Failing to Track All FMLA'4 Hazards
January 05, 2014
It is generally in your best interest to capture all absences that are Family and Medical Leave (FMLA)-related, says consultant Kristi McKinzey, PHR. She offers four common hazards employers face when they don’t track all absences.
University of Arkansas-- Global Campus
January 05, 2014
You can participate in the University of Arkansas Global Campus SHRM Learning System(r) for PHR(r)/SPHR(r) Certification Preparation Course in multiple ways.
Employment Law Beyond the Basics seminar
January 05, 2014
It is essential to understand the emerging developments in employment law. With the EEOC cracking down on employee classification and the NLRB redefining Section 7 rights, employment law problems can arise unexpectedly and the results can be costly. This seminar will help you understand the emerging critical developments and updates to provide the best management to your employees and best counsel to your clients. Our speakers provide expertise and insight to complex issues, ready to share their years of experience at both the state and federal level with you. Attend this seminar to expand your knowledge and enhance your abilities "beyond the basics."
Thirteen States Raise Pay For Minimum-Wage Workers
January 05, 2014
The minimum wage rose in 13 states as 2013 drew to a close. As many as 11 states and Washington, D.C., are expected to consider increases in 2014, and approval is likely in more than half of the 11, according to the National Employment Law Project, says USA Today.
Inside: Reduced schedule and intermittent FMLA leaves
January 05, 2014
A look at what reduced schedule or intermittent FMLA leave is and, more importantly, what it is not
Top ten Facility Safety stories of 2013
January 05, 2014
West, Texas fertilizer plant explosion is biggest story on ISHN.com
Arkansas Retaliation Claims Ruled to Have Three-Year Statute of Limitation
January 05, 2014
The Supreme Court of Arkansas recently ruled that employment-related retaliation claims may be filed in Arkansas within three (3) years of the alleged retaliatory conduct taking place. In Smith v. ConAgra Foods, Inc., the Supreme Court answered this question proposed by an Arkansas Federal District Court Judge in an ongoing employment discrimination and retaliation lawsuit. The question was certified to the State's highest court because Arkansas's retaliation statute does not set forth a specific time period in which a claim must be filed to be timely.
Avalanche of New Laws in 2014
January 05, 2014
An estimated 40,000 new state laws, regulations and resolutions were approved by state legislatures in 2013, and many of which take effect January 1, says USA Today.
Gay marriage rulings trigger big changes to HR
January 05, 2014
The Supreme Court’s decision to declare unconstitutional key provisions of the Defense of Marriage Act is expected to mean a major overhaul of federal rules affecting employee benefits administration and payroll operations.
California grants law license to undocumented immigrant
January 05, 2014
Although Sergio Garcia has lived in the U.S. for most of his life, his struggle to become a licensed lawyer has been a long one.
UofA Global Campus Professional Development Network (2014 Schedule)
September 30, 2013
Programs are presented at the Global Campus at Rogers, 3300 Market Street, Suite 402 or online as indicated.
Workforce Readiness Newsletter August 2013
July 30, 2013
The Workforce Readiness Committee would like to thank the following companies for participating in our Job Shadow Sessions that our committee put together for the Upward Bound students from the University of Arkansas and Northwest Arkansas Community College.
Department of State Releases Visa Bulletin
July 13, 2013
riority dates for the Employment Based 2nd Preference category for foreign nationals from India advanced in the August Visa Bulletin to January 1, 2008. This is a jump of almost 3-1/2 years (from September 2, 2004 in July's Visa Bulletin).
ANNOUNCING THE NOARK BOOK CLUB - Earn Recertification Credits
July 08, 2013
Your NOARK Certification Committee is excited to announce the NOARK Book Club. In March 2013, SHRM added yet another opportunity to earn recertification credits throughreading HR related books. We are capitalizing on that opportunity through the book club.
Free live E-Verify Webinars--Ongoing Webinars
July 08, 2013
U.S. law requires companies to employ only individuals who may legally work in the United States – either U.S. citizens, or foreign citizens who have the necessary authorization. This diverse workforce contributes greatly to the vibrancy and strength of our economy, but that same strength also attracts unauthorized employment.
PPACA employer mandate delayed until 2015
July 08, 2013
The Obama administration unexpectedly announced Tuesday it is delaying the employer mandate under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act until 2015.
First GINA Lawsuit Settled for $50,000
June 12, 2013
In early May, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (“EEOC”) settled an employment discrimination lawsuit involving a violation of the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (“GINA”). Although GINA has been in effect for several years – the law became effective in 2009 and final regulations were issued on November 9, 2010 – the case represents the first lawsuit ever filed by the EEOC alleging genetic discrimination under GINA.
Workplace mental health Focus a growing issue -- David Duerr contributes
June 08, 2013
With depression reported as a leading cause of lost productivity in the United States, a new initiative encourages companies to invest in their workforce to gain healthier, more productive employees, as well as achieve decreased disability costs, less turnover and better retention of valued employees, according to the national coalition Employers Health.
US Department of Labor's OSHA seeks applications for $1.5 million in Susan Harwood safety and health training grants
May 16, 2013
US Department of Labor's OSHA seeks applications for $1.5 million in Susan Harwood safety and health training grants
NOARK Receives Distinguished Award
April 29, 2013
NOARK's leadership has not gone unnoticed! The Society for Human Resource Management has awarded the NOARK chapter the EXCEL Silver Award for 2012.This award recognizes outstanding achievements in chapter operations and a commitment to providing meaningful programs and services to its members. It also recognizes the continued growth and development as a business leader, capable of developing strategies that lead to business success!
IS THE FLU COVERED BY WORKER'S COMP? BY AMY ESTES TURNER
March 23, 2013
The Arkansas Worker’s Compensation Law has a number of primary purposes, one of which is to pay disability benefits and reasonable and necessary medical expenses to all legitimately injured workers who suffer an injury or disease arising out of and in the course of their employment. A.C.A. § 11-9-101. In determining whether these laws cover the Flu, the two key phrases to look at are “injury or disease” and “arising out of and in the course of employment”.
Perfomance Appraisals...PA's for Short by Ed Wheeler, PHR
March 23, 2013
“Performance Appraisals”.........PA’s for short. That phrase strikes fear in the hearts of Managers and Supervisors every year. Unfortunately, what they often forget about is the real value that PAs can have.
4 PILLARS OF BACKGROUND SCREENING by Jeannie Baker
March 23, 2013
A question often asked, “What is the most thorough inexpensive Criminal background check?”
The Benefits of Professional Association Membership By Patti Barnes, SPHR
March 23, 2013
When people ask if there are benefits to joining a professional association, my immediate response is a resounding, “YES, let me count the ways”.
Developing a Personal Growth (Development) Plan By Patti Barnes, SPHR
March 23, 2013
Okay. Your manager mentions at the department meeting that this year’s annual review will include a discussion of your personal development plan. “YIKES”, you say. “I don’t know how to create a personal development plan. I’m not even sure what I want to develop.” Don’t panic. It is easier than you think. Let me explain.
How To Select Effective Reference Sources by Patti Barnes, SPHR
March 23, 2013
Job searches begin with preparing or updating a resume. A lot of thought goes into the resume preparation to ensure it concisely captures the knowledge, skills, and abilities that make someone the preferred candidate for a position. Be sure your reference sheet receives the same careful consideration and preparation as your resume. You should have a prepared reference sheet, separate from your resume, to provide upon request. A prospective employer will ask for work references once an applicant is considered a strong candidate for a position. Often this is requested following an interview. Do NOT submit your reference sheet along with your resume.
PerformanceGPA: Achieving High Performance Through Service Program
March 13, 2013
This session will introduce the concept of Grandslam Performance as a performance mindset and volunteer service as a talent development platform. It will also present the ROI of this mindset and platform as it relates to enabling and accelerating the performance of the workforce, workplace, and marketplace.
FORM I-9 Revised and New
March 08, 2013
The new, revised Form I-9 will contain a revision date of “(Rev. 03/08/13)N.”
NOARK Honored as a 2012 SHRM Foundation Champion
March 07, 2013
Congratulations are in order! As a result of the fundraising efforts in 2012, NOARK chapter has been designated as a 2012 SHRM Foundation Champion. The support provided by the chapters and councils allows the Foundation the ability to provide opportunities available to fellow HR professionals that they may not have had otherwise, including:
Arkansas Diversity Council presents NORTHWEST ARKANSAS WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP SYMPOSIUM
March 06, 2013
“Women Leaders as Architects of Change”
Interviewing - Your look represents your state of mind.
March 01, 2013
When you show up for an interview in wrinkled pants and a shirt with a stain on it, the hiring manager immediately forms an opinion of you. You won’t get the chance to discuss your three different degrees and revolutionary work processes. The recruiter won’t be able to get past that stain...on your front pocket....it looks like ketchup maybe..Here are my absolutes for your first and last impression at your interview.
The hunt has paid off – it is now time for the interview, what do I do?
March 01, 2013
Do your research. Not doing research on the company you are interviewing with is a major strike against you in the eyes of the hiring manager. When the interviewer asks the question, “What do you know about us”? The interviewee really needs to be able to focus on what they have learned and be able to point out, if possible, a couple of interesting facts from the website or recent new releases to show the hiring manager that you have done your homework. Linkedin.com, Facebook, Pintrest, Google and many other resources are available for the job seeker to really be able to go in depth to research the company’s culture, job descriptions and some sights will actually have former employee feedback about the company. “I know someone here that can put in a good word for me”. Most recruiters would highly dissuade you from making that call, at first. Should you ask your friend for that word and then you do not like the job or worse, you do not receive the offer, then that could put your friend in an awkward situation with his/her manager. Make sure that you want the job, after the interview, before you reach out to friends and ask them for that word of recommendation. Most recent fashions trends are not always what make the most sense for a professional interview. Lay out two or three choices from your wardrobe and think about it for a moment. If you can see the company’s Facebook or other profile pages check out the dress of the employees, but keep in mind that you only have one shot to make that first impression. Black, dark blue or dark gray are always safe colors. One thing you must do – ask for the job. Hiring managers want to hear that you are interested in the position and you want the job. Do not leave them guessing. A nice thank you goes along way. When you are done with your interview, it is always advisable to have a hand written thank you note ready to be mailed as soon as you leave the interview. Your name, a day later, can boost your chances of hearing back from the company.
NOARK To Host 'PerformanceGPA' Book Release
February 27, 2013
Springdale, AR--NOARK will be hosting a book release party for Dr. Adam Arroyos' book, "PerformanceGPA™: Achieving High Performance Through Service".
NOARK Member Recognized in Arkansas Business
February 27, 2013
Jeannie Baker has been recognized as "Affiliate of the Year" by the National Association of Residential Property Managers.
Employer Expectations for 2013 and Beyond: Post-Election Update via Webinar March 7, 2013
February 20, 2013
Cross, Gunter, Witherspoon & Galchus, P.C. is partnering with Lighthouse Compliance Solutions to offer this webinar in an effort to increase your access to an important legal update. No matter where you are located, you can join us online.
Congratulations: Four NOARK Members Pass SPHR
February 19, 2013
Congratulations to the following people at the University of Arkansas who passed the SPHR certification exam during the Winter testing window:
NOARK Mourns the Loss of Russell Gunter of Cross, Gunter, Witherspoon & Galchus
February 11, 2013
It is with heavy hearts that NOARK announces the passing of colleague and friend Russell Gunter, one of NOARK's greatest advocates and friend to us all. Russell died peacefully on Feb. 9, 2013, with family and friends at his side, following a courageous battle with cancer. He was 62 years old.
2013 Federal FMLA Changes & Impact
February 11, 2013
The U.S. Department of Labor has issued a final rule implementing two important expansions of Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) protections.
Check Out NOARK's Legislative Blog!
February 07, 2013
The NOARK Legislative Blog offers literary tidbits on state and federal legislation as it relates to the Human Resources field. Because employment laws are constantly changing, staying up-to-date is imperative as an HR Professional. We hope you find this blog a useful tool for answering questions and raising awareness of legislative issues.
How Does a Group Health Insurance Plan Work?
February 07, 2013
group health insurance plan is an insurance plan provided by an employer. A group plan is different than an individual plan. A group plan must cover things that an individual plan does not cover such as pre-existing conditions provided you have had previous credible coverage. A group plan cannot “rate up” any individual in the group based on their health conditions.
Resources for SHRM & Arkansas SHRM Foundation Scholarships
January 21, 2013
There are resources available for scholarships for your professional growth with your certification or a degree. Here are a few:
Author and CEO to Conduct Book Release April 2nd
January 17, 2013
Springdale, AR--Grandslam Performance Associates, LLC
Elizabeth Farmer of Tyson's Acknowledged as NOARK President
January 14, 2013
The Northwest Arkansas Business Journal has acknowledged the appointment of Elizabeth Farmer as the President of the Northwest Arkansas Human Resources Association, Inc., an area affiliate of the Society of Human Resource Management.
New! HR Certification for Reading Select HR Books!
January 03, 2013
For the first time, you can receive HR Certification Institute recertification credit for reading select HR books!
2012 SHRM Foundation Contribution Goal Exceeded!
December 19, 2012
Thanks to your generosity, we have raised over $500 for the SHRM Foundation for 2012, and total contributions to the SHRM Foundation were over $1,000 for 2012. This exceeds our goal of $750 for 2012!
McKee Gentry Plant Wins Environmental Stewardship Award
December 05, 2012
McKee Foods Gentry was named the winner of the Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality’s (ADEQ) 2012 Environmental Stewardship Award for the company’s extensive efforts to divert all of its waste from landfills.
Chambers USA Names CGWG a Leading Labor Employment Firm in Arkansas
November 13, 2012
Little Rock, Ark. (Nov. 2, 2012) – Cross, Gunter, Witherspoon & Galchus, P.C. has been ranked as a leading Labor and Employment law firm in the state of Arkansas in the 2012 edition of Chambers USA: America’s Leading Lawyers for Business. This marks the eighth consecutive year the firm has received this “Band 1” ranking – the highest honor in a specific area of practice.
NOARK Member Company JBU Earns "2012 Greenest Office Award"
November 06, 2012
John Brown University heads this year's list of Greenest Office winners as designated by the Northwest Arkansas Business Journal. You can read the article HERE.
NOARK Recognized for Participation in NWA Job Fair
November 06, 2012
NOARK's Workforce Readiness Committee was recognized in an article about the NWA job fair in the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce November newsletter:
NOARK President Tracey Kenny Farmer Featured in Newspaper Article
October 24, 2012
NOARK President Tracey Kenny Farmer was featured in the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette earlier this month, after attending a forum about changes in employee health insurance plans under Obamacare. You can read the full article below:
CFPB Requires Updated Forms for Background Screening
October 04, 2012
The Consumber Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) has made changes to three of the notices required by the Fair Credit Reporting Act. These changes are effective January 1, 2013.
NOARK Member Company Rockline Industries Earns Safety Award
August 30, 2012
SPRINGDALE -- Rockline Industries has announced that its Springdale facility is the recipient of an award from the Arkansas Department of Labor for safety. The Springdale plant, located at 1583 E. Mountain Road, has accumulated two million hours worked without a lost time injury.
NOARK's Career Center posts HR jobs
May 29, 2012
The purpose of NOARK's Career Center is to connect qualified HR professionals with the companies who are looking for them. If you are an HR professional looking for a job in NW Arkansas, you'll find current openings here on the Job Listings page. If you need to fill a vacancy in your HR department, please visit our Post a Job page for more information.
NOARK is a SHRM Membership Superstar!
March 27, 2012
On behalf of the Society for Human Resource Management’s staff and Board of Directors, I want to congratulate your chapter for your achievement of attaining Membership Superstar status for 2011!
Big Thanks to 2012 NOARK Sponsors
November 28, 2011
Thanks to our generous sponsors and vendor directory advertisers, NOARK will be able to continue to keep the cost of the lunch meetings the same for 2013.
2013 Membership Renewal - It's Time!
November 28, 2011
Just a quick and urgent reminder: if you haven't already renewed your NOARK membership, it will automatically expire at the end of the year. Take the time to renew your NOARK membership today!
Goal for SHRM Foundation Exceeded for 2011
November 28, 2011
Thanks to your generosity, we have exceeded our goal of $1000 in donations for the SHRM Foundation for 2011. We would like to express our thanks to members and businesses who have donated items throughout the year to benefit the fundraising activities. We look forward to another great fundraising year in 2012.
NOARK Community Service Project a Success
October 20, 2011
Thanks to the generous support of our NOARK membership we collected $285 in monetary donations in addition to many of the needed items for the Single Parent Scholarship Fund pantry. These donations will be shared by the Washington County and Benton County programs. Your generosity is much appreciated!!!
Diversity Champion Award Winners
September 19, 2011
Individual Diversity Champion Award Winner
Assoc. Superintendent for Elementary Edu.
Fayetteville Public School District
Make Better Business Decisions Using the NOARK Compensation & Benefits Survey
July 25, 2011
About the Compensation and Benefits Survey:
Benefits of PHR/SPHR Certification
July 21, 2011
Have you ever thought about sitting for the PHR/ SPHR exam? Now is a great time to commit to doing that this year. Why certify?
Cathleen Hoffman Wins State HR Award
April 28, 2011
Cathleen Hoffman, SPHR, was awarded Arkansas Outstanding Human Resource Professional at the recent Arkansas Human Resources State Conference in Hot Springs, AR, by The SHRM State Council.
NOARK Member Passes PHR Exam
April 25, 2011
Congratulations to Robin M. Dunivan on passing her PHR exam during the winter testing window. What a great achievement.
NOARK Receives Distinguished Award
April 05, 2011
The Society for Human Resource Management has awarded NOARK the EXCEL Silver Award for 2010.
Legislative Blog: Your Support Needed
March 17, 2011
See the recent post on the NOARK Legislative Blog to see why you should contact both your State Senator and Member of the State House of Representatives NOW to express your support for HB 1728 and SB 593.
Help Spread the Word: HR as a Business Partner and NOARK as a Valuable Resource
March 04, 2011
Seeking NOARK member volunteers who enjoy public speaking and have an interest in promoting NOARK to local business/community organizations. We have a program developed but need “Presenters” to help take the show on the road.
Looking for Community Service Projects
March 04, 2011
NOARK would like to identify a NWA community service project to sponsor/support in 2011 through member participation. Sample projects might address childhood hunger, workplace violence, job readiness for incarcerated individuals re-entering the workforce, or returning veterans support.
New Membership Definition & Dues Structure
November 10, 2010
We will be voting on new membership definitions and dues structure at our November 11th meeting.
Welcome to the new NOARK website!
October 12, 2010
We have striven to make this website a valuable resource to HR Professionals in Northwest Arkansas. We hope you will use this website to keep up to date on the latest issues in Human Resources.
Is The Flu Covered by Worker's Comp?
December 31, 1969
The Arkansas Worker’s Compensation Law has a number of primary purposes, one of which is to pay disability benefits and reasonable and necessary medical expenses to all legitimately injured workers who suffer an injury or disease arising out of and in the course of their employment. A.C.A. § 11-9-101. In determining whether these laws cover the Flu, the two key phrases to look at are “injury or disease” and “arising out of and in the course of employment”.
Voluntary Veterans Preference Act 598
December 31, 1969
Currently, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, amended 1991, at 42 U.S.C. Section 2000e, prohibits voluntary veterans preferences in employment as unlawfully discriminatory under Title VII due the potential disparate impact of female employees and applicants.
CONGRATS Brent Carroll, Select Staff --AR Business Forty under Forty!!!
December 31, 1969
Katie Webb, Stacey Lane, Lois Benitez, BRENT CARROLL, and Lex Orr.
Supreme Court Strikes Down Obama's Appointment of NLRB Members...
December 31, 1969
The Supreme Court Strikes Down President Obama's Appointment of National Labor Relations Board Members Made During a Three Day Recess of the Senate.
Denying Unemployment Benefits for Failing to Pass a Drug Test
December 31, 1969
On October 23, 2014, the Michigan Court of Appeals held that three unemployed claimants were entitled to unemployment benefits after they were terminated for failure to pass a drug test as a result of their lawful marijuana usage under the Michigan Medical Marihuana Act (MMMA).
NOARK Member(s) graduate Leadership Benton County... Congrats!!!
December 31, 1969
The Leadership Benton County program provides leadership training specific to the regional issues facing the county, and serves as the chamber’s training ground for future leaders in Benton County. Goals of the 12-session program include identification and motivation of individuals with leadership potential; acquainting participants with community needs, challenges and opportunities; offering a forum for dealing with community issues; and challenging future leaders to become involved with local issues and the process of decision-making.
USCIS Seeks Comments on Proposed Changes to Form I-9
December 31, 1969
USCIS published a notice in the Federal Register on Nov. 24, 2015, to inform the public of proposed changes to Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification. The public may provide comments on the proposed changes for 60 days, until Jan. 25, 2016.