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What are my legal obligations to my employees in Georgia?

Picture of Chris Battis By   ·  1 minute read

As an employer in Georgia, you have certain legal obligations to your employees. These obligations are established by federal and state laws and aim to protect workers' rights and ensure a safe and fair workplace. Here are some of the key legal obligations that you should be aware of:

  1. Minimum wage and overtime: Under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), employers must pay their employees at least the minimum wage ($7.25 per hour in Georgia) and overtime (time-and-a-half) for any hours worked over 40 hours per week.
  2. Discrimination: Georgia law prohibits employers from discriminating against employees based on their race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. Employers must provide equal opportunities and protections to all employees, regardless of their personal characteristics.
  3. Workplace safety: Employers have a legal obligation to provide a safe and healthy workplace for their employees. This includes having proper safety equipment, providing training and education on workplace hazards, and taking measures to prevent accidents and injuries.
  4. Workers' compensation: Employers must provide workers' compensation insurance to their employees in case of an on-the-job injury or illness. This insurance will cover medical expenses and lost wages related to the workplace injury.
  5. Paid leave: Georgia does not require employers to provide paid vacation, sick, or personal leave to their employees. However, if an employer chooses to offer paid leave, it must do so in compliance with federal and state laws and regulations.
  6. Discrimination and harassment policies: Employers should have clear policies in place to prevent and address discrimination and harassment in the workplace. Policies should include reporting procedures, investigation procedures, and consequences for violating the policy.

These are some of the key legal obligations that you have as an employer in Georgia. It is important to note that there may be other laws and regulations that are specific to your industry or business. If you have any questions or concerns about your legal obligations as an employer, it is recommended that you consult with a licensed attorney or HR professional.