DOL SealThe Department of Labor announced on Thursday a proposed rule that would make 1.1 million American workers newly eligible to receive overtime pay beginning in 2020. The following guest blog courtesy of Blethen | Berens provides a helpful overview of this proposal and how it will impact businesses.Should you wish to discuss this issue further, please be sure to contact one of our fantastic member businesses in law ama accounting with employment expertise.

minnesota_state_capitol_3-300x225The Minnesota House Transportation Finance and Policy Committee will hold a field hearing in Mankato this coming Friday, March 8. The Committee will hear testimony on HF 538 - a bill that would provide funding to complete the expansion of Highway 14 to four lanes between Nicollet and New Ulm. This a great opportunity for residents and businesses of Southern Minnesota to make their voice heard. Below are additional details on the hearing and how to sign up to testify.

As the buzz surrounding the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) begins to fade, one aspect of tax reform is just hitting its stride: Qualified Opportunity Zone Funds (QOZFs). By now, you’ve probably heard a little bit about these newly available investment vehicles and the tax perks that accompany them. But for many, the full benefit of QOZFs remains a mystery.To help you better understand how QOZFs could benefit you, here are a few things to know provided by guest blog, Jacob Ouradnik of Abdo, Eick & Meyers, LLP.

FromTheDomeThe Minnesota Legislature is considering a series of bills that would mandate that employers provide certain benefits to their employees. These proposals include state-mandated paid time off policies, paid family and medical leave, minimum wage, and predictive scheduling. The Legislature will begin hearings on these bills this week. Businesses are encouraged to weigh in with our legislators with their thoughts on these issues. Additional details on the proposals under consideration and how to contact your legislators follows.

The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development released the December 2018 employment figures today. The Mankato – North Mankato Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) saw a gain of 2,379 jobs or 4% year-over-year in the month of December, which led all metropolitan areas in the state. Mankato-North Mankato has lead the state in job growth every month of 2018. 

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