Good health doesn't just mean physical well-being. Emotional wellness is every bit as important. Employees' emotional health has a significant impact on their productivity and performance on the job and ultimately the success of your company. Depression costs employers more than $23 billion per year in absenteeism and reduced productivity. Studies indicate that nearly 80% of Americans struggle with some form of depression annually.

The Department of Labor's Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP) has issued a final rule that clarifies the definition of an "Internet Job Applicant."

Effective February 6, 2006, all government contractors and subcontractors covered under Executive Order 11246 will be required to maintain strict records on individuals that qualify as Internet Applicants. If your company has a government contract, or may in the future, this rule could impact you!

As of January 1, 2006, minimum wage increases and/or new wage orders were in effect for employers in the following states: Connecticut, Washington D.C., Florida, Hawaii, New York, Oregon, Vermont, and Washington. Note: New Jersey's minimum wage rate will increase from $6.15 per hour to $7.15 per hour effective October 1, 2006. Click here for details. Currently, 17 states have minimum wage rates higher than the federal standard.