State Legalization of Marijuana Presents Thorny Issues for HR.

Legalization of marijuana use (either medical or recreational) presents significant policy and practical challenges in the workplace. And the ground rules are VERY fluid to say the least.

This is an excellent article by Joanne Deschenaux, J.D. in SHRM  “HR Today” to get a broad awareness of the problem, and it points to the importance of raising your awareness and planning for the changes in policies and practices for your organization.

For more information about, or solutions for, Smart Hiring Practices and how your state’s regulations on medical or recreational marijuana use could affect your operation, contact Benjamin Ventresca, Managing Partner – Brandywine Consulting Group at 610.696.1905.

Hiring People with Criminal Backgrounds Is Easier Than You Think.

Hiring a qualified candidate with a criminal background can be a smart business move. As with all hiring decisions,

  1. start off with sound HR policies,
  2. know and follow the prevailing regulations and best business practices, and
  3. make your final decision based on facts and not assumptions.

This is an excellent article by Roy Maurer in SHRM  “HR Today” that explores many of the myths and concerns about “second-chance hiring” and opens the door for raising your awareness and considering the changes in mindset and policies for your organization.

For more information about, or solutions for, Smart Hiring Practices and considerations for getting into the practice of “second-chance hiring”, contact Benjamin Ventresca, Managing Partner – Brandywine Consulting Group at 610.696.1905.

E-Verify Expired During Government Shutdown.

The Federal Government shutdown can be having an effect on your procedures and responsibilities as an employer as related to I-9 and e-Verify. Whether you have a full HR department or are a small operation, employment-responsible professionals need to be aware of their exposure during this unusual period.

This is a “must read” article by Roy Maurer in SHRM  “HR Today” that explains the situation as it stands today, and what can be anticipated when the shut-down ends.

For more information about, or solutions for, Smart Hiring Practices and using the E-Verify system, contact Benjamin Ventresca, Managing Partner – Brandywine Consulting Group at 610.696.1905.