Navigating New Hampshire Employment Laws: A Comprehensive Guide for Employers and Employees
As an employer or employee, it is crucial to understand New Hampshire’s employment laws to ensure compliance and foster a fair and productive work environment. These laws govern various aspects of employment, including wage and hour regulations, workplace safety, discrimination, and more. In this blog, we will walk you through some key New Hampshire employment laws and provide credible sources for further reference.
1. Minimum Wage Laws:
New Hampshire’s minimum wage is aligned with the federal minimum wage. Employers must pay their employees at least this amount, but if the federal minimum wage is increased, New Hampshire’s minimum wage will adjust accordingly.
Source: New Hampshire Revised Statutes Annotated (RSA) 279:21
2. Overtime Pay:
Non-exempt employees in New Hampshire are entitled to receive overtime pay at a rate of one and a half times their regular hourly rate for any hours worked over 40 in a workweek.
Source: New Hampshire Revised Statutes Annotated (RSA) 279:21
3. Discrimination Laws:
New Hampshire prohibits discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, and other protected characteristics. Employers are required to provide equal opportunities and treatment to all employees and applicants.
Source: New Hampshire Revised Statutes Annotated (RSA) 354-A
4. Family and Medical Leave:
Under the New Hampshire Family and Medical Leave Act, eligible employees have the right to take up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave in a 12-month period for specific reasons, such as caring for a family member or addressing their medical needs.
Source: New Hampshire Revised Statutes Annotated (RSA) 354-A:7
5. Workers’ Compensation:
Employers in New Hampshire are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance to provide coverage for employees who suffer work-related injuries or illnesses.
Source: New Hampshire Revised Statutes Annotated (RSA) 281-A
6. Occupational Safety and Health:
New Hampshire employers must comply with state and federal workplace safety regulations. This is to ensure a safe and healthy work environment for employees.
Source: New Hampshire Department of Labor
7. At-Will Employment:
New Hampshire follows the “at-will” employment doctrine. This means that either the employer or the employee can terminate the employment relationship. This can happen at any time, with or without cause, as long as it is not for an illegal reason.
Source: New Hampshire Revised Statutes Annotated (RSA) 275:43
8. Final Paycheck Laws:
When an employee is terminated or resigns, New Hampshire requires the employer to pay all wages due on the next payday or within 72 hours.
Source: New Hampshire Revised Statutes Annotated (RSA) 275:44
This guide provides an overview of some critical employment laws in New Hampshire. However, employment laws are subject to change and may vary based on specific circumstances. To ensure compliance and stay informed about the latest regulations, we recommend consulting legal counsel. You can also visit the official New Hampshire government websites linked above. Remember, staying informed about employment laws not only protects your rights but also promotes a fair and respectful workplace for all.
Clark & Lavey, a leading human resources consulting firm in New Hampshire, can be your trusted partner in ensuring that your business remains in full compliance with New Hampshire employment law.
While our offices are located in New Hampshire and serve a number of NH based organizations, we do in fact work with clients nationwide. If you don’t know how to contact your state Department of Labor, visit the US Department of Labor for a complete list by state as well as other topics (like those above) showing the states with those specific laws and where they are found.
If you are interested in discovering what Clark & Lavey can offer you as a client when it comes to employment law compliance – Learn More Here.