Total Articles: 10
What Employers Need to Know About Nevada’s “Hands-Free” Cell Phone Law
In 2011, Nevada joined the growing number of states that prohibit the use of cell phones while driving, unless the driver uses a “hands-free” device, by passing Senate Bill 140. Beginning January 1, 2012, Nevada drivers can be ticketed for violating this law.
New Nevada Law Bans Cell Phone Use While Driving
Nevada’s new cell phone law (SB 140) prohibits a person from manually typing or entering text into a cell phone or similar device, and from sending or reading data using a cell phone or other device, while operating a motor vehicle. The law also prohibits the use of cell phones for voice communication unless the phone is used with an accessory that allows for hands-free use. Global positioning systems (GPS) are not covered.
New Nevada Law Limits Cell Phone Use While Driving
Nevada has now joined the ranks of several other states that limit cell phone usage while driving. The new law, effective October 1, 2011, but not to be enforced until January 1, 2012, generally makes it unlawful to talk or text on a cell phone while driving without the use of a hands-free device. Here are the details.
Wage and Hour Update: Nevada Recognizes Creative Professional Exemption – No Change in State Minimum Wage.
On June 1, 2011, Governor Brian Sandoval approved SB 328, which adds another exemption from overtime requirements by expanding the definition of “professional” to include individuals employed in creative arts. This new exemption follows closely on the heels of the Nevada Labor Commissioner’s determination that Nevada’s minimum wage will not increase on July 1, 2011. Both developments are summarized below.
Nevada’s Ban on Discrimination Based on Gender Identity to Take Effect October 1
A new Nevada law prohibits employers in the state from discriminating against their employees based on “gender identity or expression.” While state law already prohibits employment discrimination based on an individual’s color, race, sex, religion, age, disability, national origin, and sexual orientation, the new law expands protection to gender identity or expression. “Gender identity or expression” is defined as “gender-related identity, appearance, expression or behavior of a person, regardless of the person’s assigned sex at birth.”
Gender Identity and Expression Anti-Discrimination Law
On May 24, 2011, Nevada Governor Brian Sandoval signed into law Assembly Bill 211, which amends Nevada law and provides for protection from discrimination in employment based upon the gender identity or expression of a person. The bill defines "gender identity or expression" as "a gender-related identity, appearance, expression or behavior of a person, regardless of the person's assigned sex at birth." Specifically, the bill states, in part, that it is an unlawful employment practice for an employer "[t]o fail or refuse to hire, or to discharge any person, or otherwise discriminate against any person with respect to the person's compensation, terms, conditions, or privileges of employment, because of his or her...gender identity or expression
New Nevada Minimum Wage(s) Take Effect July 1, 2010
On July 1, 2010, the minimum wages set by the Nevada State Labor Commissioner for Nevada's two-tiered minimum wage system will increase. Currently, the state's minimum wage is either $6.55 ($7.25 under federal law) or $7.55 per hour, depending on whether an employer offers qualified health benefits to its employees.
Nevada Expands Leave Rights For Employees Attending School Activities.
August 15, 2009 marked the effective date for a new law, which dramatically expands leave rights for those parents who choose to participate in school-related activities of their children.
New Nevada Minimum Wage(s) Take Effect July 1.
On April 1, 2009, the Nevada State Labor Commissioner issued his annual wage bulletins that outline increases in Nevada's two-tiered minimum wage rates. Currently, the state's minimum wage is either $5.85 or $6.85 per hour, depending on whether an employer offers qualified health benefits to its employees, but these will increase this summer. Coupled with a scheduled increase in the federal minimum wage, the situation is potentially confusing.
How The New Minimum Wage Affects Nevada Employers (pdf).
On July 1, 2007, the Nevada minimum wage will increase to
$5.30 per hour or $6.33 per hour (depending on whether the
employer provides qualified health insurance benefits). On
July 24, 2007, the federal minimum wage will increase to $5.85 per hour.
This Alert addresses the legal and practical issues Nevada
employers need to consider because of these upcoming increases,
including whether you are paying the appropriate minimum wage and
complying with Nevadas daily overtime law.
