Since the Covid-19 pandemic, new regulations have been signed into law in New York State that offer protections to employees — sick leave pay, expanded whistleblowing laws, the necessity for employers to have a plan in place in the event of airborne infectious disease, etc.

“Employees have become more cognizant of their rights,” said Yale Pollack, P.C., of Long Island-based Yale Pollack Law. “A lot of laws did change during the pandemic – and employers have to be aware of certain benefits that are required now.”

Here are four things that employers and employees should be aware of:

1. Proper tracking of hours: Payroll providers have sophisticated tracking methods now, from regular time stamps to biometric scanning. While this is the way to maintain electronic records, sign-in and sign-out sheets are just as effective. It’s important to maintain these records as there is a rebuttable presumption that the records are accurate should an employee raise a claim about hours or pay. If there are no records, then the presumption of what the employee states he/she worked is accepted and the employer must come up with evidence to demonstrate that the employee’s claims are inaccurate.

2. Exempt vs. Nonexempt (Hourly vs. Salary): Employees can be classified as exempt if they meet a salary and duties test. If they meet the thresholds for both, then these employees can be paid a salary, which could benefit an employer if the employees work extensive hours as they would not be entitled...

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