It’s safe to say Oregon businesses have a lot on their plates right now. Between grappling with COVID-19 related obligations, navigating return to work dynamics, and staying current on all employment-related obligations, it’s a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of our small businesses that they continue to produce, serve and fuel our local economy despite these ever-present and ever-increasing burdens.

As small businesses and employers in Oregon, it can be tempting to neglect non-COVID related obligations right now. Resist that temptation. To help, here are a couple non-COVID related deadlines to keep in mind:

1. Effective June 29, employers of 6 or more must distribute a Notice of Rights to all employees that explains the employee’s rights as it relates to pregnancy, childbirth, and other related medical conditions. You’ll recall in my previous post that employers of 6 or more have been required to provide this notice to employees at time of hire and within 10 days of learning of an employee’s pregnancy, and to post this notice in a conspicuous and accessible location in the workplace. NOTE: THIS DISTRIBUTION OBLIGATION IS IN ADDITION TO THE POSTING OBLIGATION. YOU HAVE TO DO BOTH.

2. Effective July 1, minimum wage increases across the state. Polk, Marion and Yamhill counties are all considered “Standard” counties for purposes of minimum wage application, but if you are not sure what rate applies to your zip code, check out the map here. The new rates will be $11.50/hour for non-urban counties, $13.25/hour for the Portland Metro counties, and $12.00/hour for standard counties.

These are challenging times for Oregon employers. As always, feel free to contact me for help.