On July 1, 2023, Minnesota became the fourth state to ban non-compete agreements between employees and employers. The now not so new law makes it illegal to enforce employment contract provisions that restrict employees from working for a competitor or taking a similar position with another employer after their employment ends. RIP, non-competes? Yes, but anyone about to sign an employment agreement should nonetheless take a close look at the … [Read more...]
Should I Take a New Job While Being Paid a Severance?
When an employee is laid off or enters into a separation agreement, they will often be offered severance payments from their former employer. These severance payments, which are essentially salary/wage replacement, are either paid out as a lump sum or over the severance period—whether the period is two weeks or two years. When employees find themselves in this situation, a common question they have is whether they will have to repay the … [Read more...]
Navigating a RIF? Key Questions to Consider Before Accepting a Severance Package
In times of corporate restructuring or a Reduction in Force (RIF), employees often grapple with a significant decision: whether to accept a severance package. It's important to approach this crossroads with clarity and careful thought. Here are key questions to ask when presented with a severance offer as part of a RIF: What Does the Severance Package Include?Before reaching a decision, delve into the details of the severance package. … [Read more...]
The End of Confidentiality and Non-Disparagement Clauses?
Employee severance agreements consist of an exchange of promises between the employer and employee. The core of the agreement is the employer’s promise of some benefit – often a monetary payment – to the employee, in exchange for the employee’s promise to release potential legal claims against the employer. Buried in the written terms of these agreements, you will consistently find two additional terms: (1) prohibiting the employee from sharing … [Read more...]
Big Win for Minnesota Employees: 2023 Minnesota Legislative Session Results in New Employee Rights and Protections
The 2023 Minnesota legislative session proved to be the most consequential in recent memory for the Minnesota employment law landscape. Multiple new laws create significant and wide-ranging rights and protections for Minnesota workers. Schaefer Halleen is pleased to summarize some of the highlights, which include banning noncompete agreements, establishing a new paid family and medical leave program, clearer and more robust rights for nursing … [Read more...]
