In an election year, the workplace is not only rapidly changing—it’s exploding with uncertainties, wrapped in complex opportunities that create employment challenges that you need to know about.

On Thursday, September 19, 2024, the Government Advocacy Team (GAT) hosted a power chat with three legislative and policy powerhouses: Sean McIntosh, Senior Advisor of State Government Relations with SHRM; Steven Perrotta, Director of Public Policy with SHRM; and Eric De Wames, Co-Legislative Director of California SHRM.

During the chat, attendees participated in an informative poll and dynamic conversation.

Key Insights from Our Polls

Below are the key takeaways from the polls administered during the chat. These were designed to gauge the experiences and concerns of our HR community regarding several legislative topics.

Paid Sick Leave Laws:

Nearly half of respondents (47%) indicated that these laws have no adverse impact on your employers, while 32% found them complex and costly due to varying city ordinances.

Automated Decision Tools (ADTs):

While 53% expressed concern that ADTs might overlook candidate competencies, leading to potential discrimination, 47% felt confident that their organizations maintain diversity with these tools.

Voting and Productivity:

An overwhelming 95% of respondents stated that allowing employees time to vote does not impact productivity, emphasizing a strong commitment to civic engagement without sacrificing work performance.

Ageism in the Workplace:

The results were divided, with 42% acknowledging ageism as an issue in their workplace, but 53% stating that it’s not happening in their organizations.

Paid Family Leave (PFL):

A significant 84% of respondents said their employers do not require the use of PTO before taking PFL.

FMLA Payment:

Support for paid FMLA was split, with 53% agreeing it would boost recruitment and morale, while 47% cited concerns over costs.

Topics That Shaped the Power Chat Conversation

In addition to the polls, attendees dove into several pressing issues affecting the workforce today:

Employer Student Debt Programs:

Many respondents expressed a growing interest in employer-sponsored student debt repayment programs. As student debt burdens millions, such initiatives could be a game-changer in attracting and retaining top talent.

Employee Retention Tax Credits:

Attendees discussed the benefits of retention tax credits that incentivize employers to invest in workforce development and retain their skilled employees. These credits could be a critical tool in bolstering teamwork and navigating labor shortages.

Impact of Baby Boomer Retirements

With the impending retirement of the Baby Boomer generation, we explored the potential impact on the workforce. As their accumulated wealth transfers to younger generations, it may create a scenario where some of their descendants opt out of entering the workforce, posing challenges for industries that rely on new talent.

The PIHRA GAT truly appreciates engaging with the PIHRA community on critical issues such as these. Please follow the GAT to continue the crucial dialogue about how these changes in legislation and workplace trends and others will shape the future of HR and employment law.

Stay Connected

Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any follow-up questions or would like additional resources. We hope to see you at our next event! Please connect with us on LinkedIn and Instagram.

We are looking for volunteers! Please email the Chair of PIHRA GAT, Dana Mayhew, at governmentaffairs@pihra.org.