Employment law

Employment law shapes the relationship between employers and employees, setting out key rights and responsibilities for both parties. The legal landscape is complex, with federal, state and local rules all playing a role – often varying depending on an organization’s business size, industry, and location.

While some employment laws are designed to protect employees, others make it possible for employers to effectively manage their workforce.

Federal employment law is composed of a complex set of rules made up of various components, such as:

  • Executive Orders
  • Statutes
  • Regulations
  • Agency interpretive materials and opinions; and
  • Case law

In the United States, these laws are enforced by agencies including the Department of Labor (DOL)Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)

Various employment laws provide employees with certain rights, such as the right to:

  • Be paid fair wages
  • A safe workplace
  • A workplace free from discrimination and harassment; and
  • File complaints against an employer without fear of retaliation

Employers must follow the letter and spirit of the law throughout the employment life cycle, from recruiting to termination.

Explore our employment law resources

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HR News

Major employment law changes coming to Washington State

Washington State has enacted a slate of new employment laws covering issues such as employee microchip privacy, wage-theft …

HR News

6th circuit limits NLRB’s ability to compel union bargaining

The 6th Circuit Court of Appeals has become the first federal appeals court to reject the NLRB’s use …

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New Jersey expands family leave law

Discover key changes to New Jersey’s expanded family leave law and what employers need to know to stay …

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New York Ends Year Passing Several New Employment Laws

New York closed out 2025 with sweeping employment reforms—from banning ‘stay‑or‑pay’ training repayment agreements to restricting credit checks, …

HR News

Illinois Adds Protections Regarding Identity “Mismatch” Notices

Effective December 12, Illinois employers must give employees time to correct identification-documentation discrepancies.

Infographics

US map of minimum wage rates effective January 2026

Stay compliant with new minimum wage rates for 2026 with our quick and easy snapshot map.

Whitepapers

January 1, 2026: New year brings 145+ new compliance requirements

Get your organization ready to comply using our latest guide outlining a complete list of the new laws …

HR News

California passes several new employment laws

Review the latest employment laws passed in California, including measures involving pay data reporting, paid family leave, and …

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