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EMPLOYEE HANDBOOKS: ESSENTIAL TOOL FOR DEALERS

Considering the evolution of state and federal laws and court decisions regarding employment issues such as discrimination and harassment, employee handbooks are essential and allow businesses to provide: • Guidance to employees about dealership policies; • The written notice that some policies legally require; and • A defense to some legal claims. Guidance: Employers can address a variety of subjects in an employee handbook. Handbooks should include a description of the business’ policies concerning non-discrimination and sexual harassment; vacations; holidays; overtime; equal opportunity; company email, telephone, and computer usage; smoking policy; and health insurance information, among other things. Handbooks should be tailored to your business by using a customized list of policies that meets your individual business needs.

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The Best Defense: Handbooks have taken on additional importance as a result of federal, state, and local rulings concerning discrimination and harassment.

Labor Law Requirements: New York law requires some disclosures to employees be in writing. For example, a notice of the employer’s policy concerning unused vacation pay should be included in an employee handbook, thus satisfying the state law and providing guidance to employees. Note: This item is intended to provide general information and is not a substitute for consulting with your attorney. Members of GNYADA’s Employee Relations Plan (ERP) have access to legal advice and guidance as a benefit of membership and are entitled to discounted customized employee handbooks. Contact GNYADA for more information about joining ERP.

81 2020 MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY & SERVICES GUIDE