Businesses with 50 or more employees in Tennessee must follow several key employment regulations. These laws exist to ensure employee rights, safety and well-being.
Understanding these rules that start applying at the 50-employee threshold can help you avoid costly penalties and legal issues.
Family and Medical Leave Act
The Family and Medical Leave Act requires employers with 50 or more employees to provide up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave for certain medical and family-related reasons. Employees can use FMLA leave to care for a newborn, adopt a child or manage a serious health condition. Employers must maintain the employee’s health benefits during this time and offer the same or an equivalent job when they return.
Affordable Care Act
Tennessee also follows the federal Affordable Care Act, which mandates that employers with 50 or more full-time employees offer affordable health insurance. The coverage must meet minimum essential coverage standards, ensuring employees have access to health services.
Tennessee Occupational Safety and Health Act
The Tennessee Occupational Safety and Health Act protects employees by requiring employers to provide a safe and healthy work environment. This regulation ensures that businesses adhere to safety standards that prevent workplace accidents and injuries. Employers must also maintain proper records of workplace incidents and conduct regular safety training.
Equal Employment Opportunity
The Equal Employment Opportunity laws also apply to employers with 50 or more employees. These laws prohibit discrimination based on race, gender, religion, age, disability or national origin. Employers must ensure that hiring, promotions and terminations follow EEO guidelines, offering equal opportunities to all employees.
As an employer, it is important to acknowledge that compliance standards change drastically when the company has 50 employees. Following the regulations that apply at this threshold will create a fair workplace while minimizing risks for the employer.