Generated by All in One SEO Pro v5.0.0.1, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site.
# GroupOne Services
Background Screening
## Sitemaps
- [XML Sitemap](https://gp1.com/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website.
## Posts
- [Why would a youth league not conduct background checks?](https://gp1.com/why-would-a-youth-league-not-conduct-background-checks/) - You got me. Here at GroupOne Background Screening, we would assume a youth league would be the first place people would conduct background checks on coaches who supervise our children. We ran across an interesting case this month in Indiana where a parent uncovered a multi-year safety failure at a soccer academy. Specifically, the investigation
- [The rising risk of fake certificates in job hunting](https://gp1.com/the-rising-risk-of-fake-certificates-in-job-hunting/) - Unfortunately, fake certificates have become a growing problem in today’s background screening market. For some job candidates, the pressure to stand out can be overwhelming. We’ll be the first to admit that many industrious candidates invest in continuous learning and accredited qualifications. Yet here at GroupOne Background Screening, we’ve noticed an alarming trend has been
- [Smart glasses at work: A policy problem?](https://gp1.com/smart-glasses-at-work-a-policy-problem/) - Did you know most companies have no policy addressing the use of smart glasses in the workplace? Well, we didn’t either! Let us state first, smart glasses are not inherently "good" or "bad." Like many workplace technologies, they can be used responsibly. The question before artificial intelligence (AI) and privacy teams is not whether employees
- [GroupOne webinar “Tips and Tricks” has been posted online!](https://gp1.com/groupone-webinar-tips-and-tricks-has-been-posted-online/) - GroupOne Background Screening's webinar "Power Tips and Tricks: Unlocking the Secrets of the GroupOne Platform," originally broadcast on July 30, has now been posted online. Speakers included David Graves, GroupOne’s sales representative and HR Guru, and Steve Fischer, business operations specialist at GroupOne. Together, they provided their 25-plus years of GroupOne experience during the complimentary
- [GroupOne webinar “Power Tips and Tricks” in two days!](https://gp1.com/groupone-webinar-power-tips-and-tricks-in-two-days/) - You don’t want to miss this! Here’s a great opportunity to speak to the GroupOne Background Screening experts during the webinar “Power Tips and Tricks: Unlocking the Secrets of the GroupOne Platform” in just two days this Thursday, July 30 from 2:00 – 3:00 p.m., CDT. Speakers will include David Graves, GroupOne’s sales representative and
- [GroupOne relocating to new building on August 7](https://gp1.com/groupone-relocating-to-new-building-on-august-7-2/) - GroupOne Background Screening has announced plans to move its offices to a new building in August. The new office will be one block away from its current location in Irving, Texas.For GroupOne, a background screening company with more than 35 years of service, the new office space means improved client service, expanded parking and enhanced
- [GroupOne webinar “Power Tips and Tricks” in one week!](https://gp1.com/groupone-webinar-power-tips-and-tricks-in-one-week/) - You don’t want to miss this! Here’s a great opportunity to speak to the GroupOne Background Screening experts during the webinar “Power Tips and Tricks: Unlocking the Secrets of the GroupOne Platform” in just one week next Thursday, July 30 from 2:00 – 3:00 p.m., CDT. Speakers will include David Graves, GroupOne’s sales representative and
- [Marijuana tests falling away as positive tests increase](https://gp1.com/marijuana-tests-falling-away-as-positive-tests-increase/) - Excerpted from a Bradley Arant Boult Cummings LLP Blog by Whitt Steineker and Slates Veazey If an employee uses marijuana off the clock and the employer doesn’t test for marijuana, isn’t it much like the tree falling in the woods? A recent Wall Street Journal report (“More U.S. Workers Are Testing Positive for Marijuana. Fewer Employers Are Concerned,”
- [GroupOne webinar “Power Tips and Tricks” in two weeks!](https://gp1.com/groupone-webinar-power-tips-and-tricks-in-two-weeks/) - You don’t want to miss this! Here’s a great opportunity to speak to the GroupOne Background Screening experts during the webinar “Power Tips and Tricks: Unlocking the Secrets of the GroupOne Platform” in just two weeks on Thursday, July 30 from 2:00 – 3:00 p.m., CDT. Speakers will include David Graves, GroupOne’s sales representative and
- [Podcast – Workplace Bias and Weight-Loss Drugs](https://gp1.com/podcast-workplace-bias-and-weight-loss-drugs/) - In an episode of the podcast “Hiring to Firing,” hosts Tracey Diamond and Emily Schifter of Troutman Pepper Locke examine the evolving issue of weight discrimination in the workplace. They draw on the medical drama “The Pitt” to discuss obesity, workplace bias and legal protections. The discussion explores whether weight or obesity may be protected under federal, state
- [GroupOne relocating to new building on August 7](https://gp1.com/groupone-relocating-to-new-building-on-august-7/) - GroupOne Background Screening has announced plans to move its offices to a new building in August. The new office will be one block away from its current location in Irving, Texas.For GroupOne, a background screening company with more than 35 years of service, the new office space means improved client service, expanded parking and enhanced
- [GroupOne webinar “Power Tips and Tricks” set for July 30!](https://gp1.com/groupone-webinar-power-tips-and-tricks-set-for-july-30/) - You don’t want to miss this! Here’s a great opportunity to speak to the GroupOne Background Screening experts during the webinar “Power Tips and Tricks: Unlocking the Secrets of the GroupOne Platform” on Thursday, July 30 from 2:00 – 3:00 p.m., CDT. Speakers will include David Graves, GroupOne’s sales representative and HR Guru, and Steve
- [Four practical ways to improve hiring decisions](https://gp1.com/four-practical-ways-to-improve-hiring-decisions/) - Excerpted from a Michael Best & Friedrich LLP Blog by James Forrest Hiring is one of the most important decisions an organization makes. It shapes office culture and affects growth. In a recent conversation I had with firm founder, we discussed what we’re seeing across growing organizations. Better hiring does not require perfection; it requires
- [The Rise of Fake Applicants](https://gp1.com/the-rise-of-fake-applicants/) - Excerpted from a LinkedIn Blog by Russell Lobsenz, PhD Something strange has been happening in recruiting over the last few years, and many TA teams and hiring managers are noticing it without quite being able to name it. Applicant volumes are up. Quality feels down. Resumes look polished but oddly generic. Candidates make it through
- [Do you have to accommodate employees who fail drug tests?](https://gp1.com/do-you-have-to-accommodate-employees-who-fail-drug-tests/) - Excerpted from a Constangy Brooks Smith & Prophete Blog by Robin Shea What’s the world coming to? A probation and parole officer (we’ll call her “Suzie”) employed by the Oklahoma State Department of Corrections was diagnosed with attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder and had been on prescription Adderall since 2019. Adderall is an amphetamine. When
- [GroupOne stands with hospitals to stop workplace violence](https://gp1.com/groupone-stands-with-hospitals-to-stop-workplace-violence/) - Today, June 5, 2026, GroupOne Background Screening is honoring #HAVhope National Day of Awareness in coordination with hospitals, health systems, nurses, doctors and other health professional across the country, to combat violence and create awareness. GroupOne stands together with the healthcare community against violence in our workplaces and communities. Since the pandemic, workplace violence in hospitals has
- [Job recruitment scams could cost thousands of dollars](https://gp1.com/job-recruitment-scams-could-cost-thousands-of-dollars/) - Excerpted from a 2News Oklahoma Story by Cathy Tatom Job hunters are being warned about a wave of recruitment scams that cost victims $150.4 million in just the last quarter of 2025, according to the Federal Trade Commission. The FTC recorded 25,002 reports of business and job opportunity-related scams in that period, with a median
- [Can employers host women-only workplace events?](https://gp1.com/can-employers-host-women-only-workplace-events/) - Sign of the times? Perhaps. We noticed an interesting case out of San Francisco where hundreds of female employees participated in a company-sponsored networking retreat. While the event took place, female employees were excused from their work duties and paid normal wages. Unfortunately, a male employee questioned why he must sit at his desk while
- [GroupOne's national webinar has been posted online!](https://gp1.com/groupones-national-webinar-has-been-posted-online/) - We were in the spotlight! GroupOne Background Screening was highlighted during a national webinar originally broadcast on May 28. Titled "GroupOne Background Screening: A Healthcare Partner in Safety and Compliance," the event was part of a series of webinars hosted in coordination with the Conference of Metropolitan Hospital Associations (CMHA) highlighting national healthcare businesses. David Graves, GroupOne’s
- [Do background checks detect employee fraudsters?](https://gp1.com/do-background-checks-detect-employee-fraudsters/) - Yes and no! We were alarmed when running across last month’s report by the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE) that stated 88 percent of occupational fraudsters passed their pre-employment background checks without exhibiting red flags, while 12 percent of fraudsters displayed a red flag but were hired anyway. Those are scary numbers. Here at GroupOne
- [Is a CCPA Risk Assessment required when using AI tools?](https://gp1.com/is-a-ccpa-risk-assessment-required-when-using-ai-tools/) - Excerpted from a JDSUPRA Blog by Joseph Lazzorotti of Jackson Lewis P.C. Artificial intelligence has made significant inroads into the hiring process. Employers increasingly rely on AI-driven tools to screen resumes, analyze video interviews, administer automated assessments, and score candidates against job-fit models. These tools promise greater efficiency and, in theory, more consistent evaluation. They
- [GroupOne's national webinar in two days!](https://gp1.com/groupones-national-webinar-in-two-days/) - We’re in the spotlight! GroupOne Background Screening will be highlighted during a national webinar in just two days this Thursday, May 28 from 11:00 a.m. to 12 noon, CDT. Titled “GroupOne Background Screening: A Healthcare Partner in Safety and Compliance,” the event is part of a series of webinars hosted in coordination with the Conference of
- [GroupOne's national webinar in two weeks!](https://gp1.com/groupones-national-webinar-in-two-weeks/) - We’re in the spotlight! GroupOne Background Screening will be highlighted during a national webinar in just two weeks on May 28 from 11:00 a.m. to 12 noon, CDT. Titled “GroupOne Background Screening: A Healthcare Partner in Safety and Compliance,” the event is part of a series of webinars hosted in coordination with the Conference of Metropolitan
- [How long does it take for a drug test to come back?](https://gp1.com/how-long-does-it-take-for-a-drug-test-to-come-back/) - Usually 24 hours, but not always. Drug testing plays a vital role when making your hiring decision. It is also key for strong workplace safety and regulatory compliance, especially for employers operating in safety-sensitive environments. Whether you’re an employer awaiting a candidate’s results or an employee completing a pre-employment test, turnaround time is always important.
- [Why your hiring is still “Unmeritocratic”](https://gp1.com/why-your-hiring-is-still-unmeritocratic/) - Excerpted from an Uptimize Blog by Ed Thompson Most hiring processes claim to be meritocratic, but they tend to reward familiarity over capability. Leaders, hiring managers and most employees typically believe they are selecting the best candidates. After all, didn’t the organization hire them? It must be doing something right… But, in reality, decisions are often driven by
- [GroupOne to be highlighted in May 28 national webinar](https://gp1.com/groupone-to-be-highlighted-in-may-28-national-webinar/) - We’re in the spotlight! GroupOne Background Screening will be highlighted during a national webinar on May 28 from 11:00 a.m. to 12 noon, CDT. Titled “GroupOne Background Screening: A Healthcare Partner in Safety and Compliance,” the event is part of a series of webinars hosted in coordination with the Conference of Metropolitan Hospital Associations (CMHA) highlighting national
- [New legal risks posed by the use of AI](https://gp1.com/new-legal-risks-posed-by-the-use-of-ai/) - As we all should know, artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly becoming integrated into employer’s decision-making. Employers are using AI tools to streamline hiring, manage performance and, believe it or not, even to answer legal questions. For employers who must contend with employees when making decisions, the use of AI raises serious concerns. Employers should be
- [Federal privacy bill: “SECURE Data Act” introduced](https://gp1.com/federal-privacy-bill-secure-data-act-introduced/) - Excerpted from a Clark Hill Blog by Jason Schwent and Lauren Williams On April 22, 2026, the House Energy & Commerce Committee announced the introduction of “Securing and Establishing Consumer Uniform Rights and Enforcement Over Data Act” (the “SECURE Data Act”), a comprehensive federal privacy proposal intended to replace the current patchwork of state consumer
- [Why is my background check delayed?!](https://gp1.com/why-is-my-background-check-delayed/) - Now hold on there partner! At GroupOne Background Screening, the last thing we want to do is delay your background check. We know it can be frustrating. But at the end of the day, a background check is research, and GroupOne’s research requires due diligence to ensure your records are accurate and truly belong to
- [What is a “safety sensitive” job under marijuana laws?](https://gp1.com/what-is-a-safety-sensitive-job-under-marijuana-laws/) - Well, it varies from state to state, but there is a general consensus. With the recent amendment of Oklahoma’s marijuana law that now permits employers to have “zero tolerance” drug standards regarding medical marijuana users in “safety-sensitive” positions, we asked ourselves, “Just what is a ‘safety sensitive’ job?” It should be noted, the law (House
- [TV news anchor loses race discrimination claim](https://gp1.com/tv-news-anchor-loses-race-discrimination-claim/) - Excerpted from a Constangy Brooks Smith & Prophete LLP Blog by Cara Yates Crotty To borrow from Ron Burgundy, “that de-escalated quickly.” Jeff Vaughn was a veteran news anchor at two CBS affiliates in Los Angeles. When his contract was terminated and he was replaced with a Black news anchor, he alleged he was discriminated
- [What Trump’s reclassification of marijuana means for Texas](https://gp1.com/what-trumps-reclassification-of-marijuana-means-for-texas/) - Excerpted from a FOX News Story by Shaun Rabb On Thursday, April 23, President Donald Trump signed an executive order to reclassify marijuana as a less dangerous drug. It’s an effort to open new pathways for medical research and signals a significant shift in federal drug policy. Marijuana Reclassified The reclassification removes marijuana from the
- [Red flags employers should never ignore](https://gp1.com/red-flags-employers-should-never-ignore/) - We’ve all been there during the background screening process. Specifically, those irritating red flags that pop up in reports. Hiring the right candidate is essential to protect your workplace while maintaining compliance. Turnovers can also be costly. Reviewing a candidate’s background check is a crucial part of the hiring process. And properly defining red flags
- [Is it discriminatory to use credit history when hiring?](https://gp1.com/is-it-discriminatory-to-use-credit-history-when-hiring/) - Well, it depends. Using credit history in hiring is generally legal under federal law but can be considered discrimination if it disproportionately impacts protected groups (race, sex, age) without being job-related. While federal law permits this practice, more than 10 states restrict it, viewed by many as economic discrimination. Aspects of Credit Checks in Hiring: Legal Standing: The
- [Home Depot under investigation after announcing layoffs](https://gp1.com/home-depot-under-investigation-after-announcing-layoffs/) - Excerpted from an HBL Blog Home Depot recently announced layoffs affecting almost 800 workers at its Georgia locations. In response, law firm Strauss Borrelli PLLC has launched an investigation of the Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) Act notice that the company issued to state officials on January 28, 2026. The WARN Act notice states
- [Do background check workers need to be licensed PIs?](https://gp1.com/do-background-check-workers-need-to-be-licensed-pis/) - Did you know that every employee at GroupOne Background Screening is a licensed private investigator? Well, now you do! But we should note, not only is this a source of GroupOne pride, it’s also the law. We were reminded of this after a recent case in Iowa. Specifically, the immigration arrest of a Des Moines
- [Workplace Investigations: Why Investigate?](https://gp1.com/workplace-investigations-why-investigate/) - Excerpted from a Levy Employment Law LLC Blog by Tracey Levy Workplace investigations are not - or should not be - simply about helping an organization limit or avoid liability. The simple act of conducting an investigation cannot achieve that. Why? Because the investigation can only reveal whether there's a problem; it cannot actually solve
- [Are polygraph tests legal in background screening?](https://gp1.com/are-polygraphs-tests-legal-in-background-screening/) - They used to be! Polygraph tests were once very common in retail hiring to cut down on potential employee shoplifting. The testing was largely banned in private-sector background screenings by the 1988 Employee Polygraph Protection Act (EPPA) due to high rates of inaccuracy, lack of scientific validity and its misuse to intimidate innocent applicants. The tests were deemed
- [Will marijuana ever be legal in Texas?](https://gp1.com/will-marijuana-ever-be-legal-in-texas/) - Since we provide drug screening here at GroupOne Background Screening, we are asked this question quite often. “Will marijuana ever be legal in Texas?” The simple answer is, “We don’t know.” The climate in Texas for marijuana legalization is uncertain, though the landscape is rapidly evolving. While recreational marijuana is illegal, legislative efforts, local decriminalization moves
- [Background checks on youth sport volunteers – a good idea?](https://gp1.com/background-checks-on-youth-sport-volunteers-a-good-idea/) - Of course this is a good idea. In fact, it’s probably the best idea in history. Background checks on volunteers in youth sports is a critical best practice to ensure child safety, prevent abuse and mitigate legal liability for organizations. It helps identify individuals with histories of violence, theft or sexual offenses, offering peace of
- [What does Ranch Dressing have to do with employment law?](https://gp1.com/what-does-ranch-dressing-have-to-do-with-employment-law/) - Excerpted from a Lehr Middlebrooks Vreeland & Thompson, P.C. Blog by Whitney Brown Wait, did you read that right? “What Does Ranch Dressing Have to Do with Employment Law”? Well, quite a lot actually, as long as we’re talking about that most famous type of ranch dressing, the brand that introduced most of America to
- [Are Social Media Background Checks a good idea?](https://gp1.com/are-social-media-background-checks-a-good-idea/) - We might as well state this upfront. GroupOne Background Screening does not do social media checks. There’s a number of reasons we’ve chosen to avoid this service, the main one being the severe legal and discrimination risks. It should be noted that social media background checks are common for job candidates, providing an assessment of
- [AI monitoring in the workplace](https://gp1.com/ai-monitoring-in-the-workplace/) - Excerpted from a Constangy Brooks Smith and Prophete Blog by Claire Bowen and Anna Schall Kreamer Turning AI inside out. Just as organizations use artificial intelligence to monitor the workplace, they must also monitor themselves and, as a result, reshape their risk, governance, and security expectations. AI must be managed from two directions: from the
- [Does speed kill when it comes to background checks?](https://gp1.com/does-speed-kill-when-it-comes-to-background-checks/) - Can speed kill? Or, more accurately, can a background check be delivered too fast? Please note, speedy or instantaneous background checks are often fast because they rely on pre-indexed, automated databases rather than searching live, local court records. While they can be accurate, their reliability varies significantly, often providing outdated, incomplete or inaccurate information. Here
- [Employee claims Netflix termination based on vaccination](https://gp1.com/employee-claims-netflix-termination-based-on-vaccination/) - Here’s an interesting story we ran across. A former Netflix executive has filed suit against the media company, claiming her termination was in retaliation for complaining about religious and sexual discrimination rather than her refusal to get the COVID-19 vaccine. In her California lawsuit, the employee claims Netflix violated workplace gender bias, retaliation and harassment
- [Should you drug test your staff? And how?](https://gp1.com/should-you-drug-test-your-staff-and-how/) - To test or not to test? Rolling out a drug testing program can improve safety, but it can also have major fallout if you fail to conduct proper planning. Whether you’re looking to improve workplace health, reduce a current trend in drug and alcohol use, or comply with legal standards, drug testing can significantly reduce
- [N.J. lawmakers push for youth sports background checks](https://gp1.com/n-j-lawmakers-push-for-youth-sports-background-checks/) - Excerpted from a NJ.com story by Keith Sargeant New Jersey lawmakers are renewing calls to require all coaches in youth sports organizations across the state, including private teams and trainers, to undergo annual background checks before working with athletes under the age of 18. State Assemblywoman Andrea Katz, D-Atlantic, Assemblyman Jay Webber, R-Morris, and Assemblywoman
- [Don’t miss these silent work-culture killers](https://gp1.com/dont-miss-these-silent-work-culture-killers/) - Excerpted from a Levitt LLP Blog by Howard Levitt Compliance isn’t just about following the handbook. It is about anticipating the risks that do not scream for attention. Employers often focus on the obvious: harassment complaints, terminations gone wrong, union battles. But the riskiest employee issues are the ones you don’t see coming — the silent hazards eroding morale, productivity and,
- [10 notes to consider when conducting background checks](https://gp1.com/10-notes-to-consider-when-conducting-background-checks/) - We get it. Conducting background checks on job candidates and employees can be a difficult process. Here at GroupOne Background Screening, we are aware of the many hazards to avoid. But in today’s business world, there’s no doubt that making a wrong hiring decision can damage your company, your employees and your clients. Let’s not
- [US lawmaker has plan for sweeping overhaul of Privacy Act](https://gp1.com/us-lawmaker-has-plan-for-sweeping-overhaul-of-privacy-act/) - Excerpted from a Biometric Update Blog by Anthony Kimery Democratic Rep. Lori Trahan this week released a sweeping report arguing that the decades old Privacy Act of 1974, once a landmark safeguard against government overreach, is now structurally incapable of protecting Americans in an era defined by cloud computing, data brokers, and AI. “Over fifty years later, privacy
- [Uber to change background check policy after probe](https://gp1.com/uber-to-change-background-check-policy-after-probe/) - Excerpted from a FOX NEWS Story by Julia Bonavita The popular ride-share app Uber is reportedly taking strides to enact more comprehensive background checks after its policies allowed individuals with violent criminal convictions to drive for the company. The move comes after an investigation conducted by The New York Times uncovered the company’s revealed policies allowing drivers
- [Workplace recordings in the digital age](https://gp1.com/workplace-recordings-in-the-digital-age/) - Excerpted from a Venable LLP Blog by Allison Gotfried and Keith Olsen From virtual meetings to security cameras and smartphones, or even AI glasses and recordings, employees are finding new and novel ways to capture workplace discussions and settings more easily. While recording technology can serve legitimate business purposes, it also raises significant legal and
- [Yikes! Doctor suspended for faking work history](https://gp1.com/yikes-doctor-suspended-for-faking-work-history/) - We ran across this scary case of false misrepresentation. A state medical board suspended a doctor for being dishonest in his specialty training application. The doctor misrepresented his employment history in the information he supplied to the medical board earlier this year. The doctor also falsely claimed he had no convictions or cautions. The medical
- [AI fraud attacks expected to rise in 2026](https://gp1.com/ai-fraud-attacks-expected-to-rise-in-2026/) - Excerpted from a HR Digest Blog by Anuradha Mukherjee Has your business witnessed a rise in fraud attacks? With AI designed to manufacture and manipulate content, AI-based fraud attacks are expected to rise in 2026, with the issue being of particular concern in hiring. Fraud in the hiring process is not a new concept, and
- [Employee faked a reference check and got the job!](https://gp1.com/employee-faked-a-reference-check-and-got-the-job/) - We’ve all heard horror stories when it comes to checking verifications, but perhaps none quite as horrifying as this. By way of Reddit, an online social discussion platform, a user recently shared a personal story how they avoided an awkward employment gap by using a fake reference – and it worked! While the story may
- [A real toothache – dental firm sued over background check](https://gp1.com/a-real-toothache-dental-firm-sued-over-background-check/) - We ran across an interesting court case involving a dental firm and a mysterious background check. The company is facing a class action lawsuit for allegedly suspending an employee based on a background check she never saw. The employee worked for dental staffing firm from 2022 to 2025, holding a perfect 5-star rating, according to court
- [Should employers update their drug testing policies?](https://gp1.com/should-employers-update-their-drug-testing-policies/) - Excerpted from a Seyfarth Shaw LLP Blog by Adam Young, Jennifer Mora and Frederick Smith President Trump’s December 2025 Executive Order signals a possible shift in federal marijuana policy, but many employers still have a lawful and legitimate basis to prohibit impairment at work. Employers that test for marijuana should continue to monitor developments and
- [What background checks miss: The human layer](https://gp1.com/what-background-checks-miss-the-human-layer/) - Excerpted from a Security Blog by Rachael Zerr In our modern world hiring is faster, more automated and utilizing digital space more than ever. Background checks have become both more common, and in many cases, far less rigorous. Over the past few years, while applying for security and risk-related roles, I noticed a pattern that
- [When a credit report can hurt your chances of being hired](https://gp1.com/when-a-credit-report-can-hurt-your-chances-of-being-hired/) - Excerpted from a CNN Story by Jeanne Sahadl A background check can sink a job offer if prospective employers don’t like what they see. While they can request to have a lot of information about a job candidate’s past included in such a report, increasingly they are no longer allowed to request people’s credit history.
- [Florida law compels employers to link background check info](https://gp1.com/florida-law-compels-employers-to-link-background-check-info/) - Excerpted from an Ogletree Deakins Blog by Dee Anna D. Hays Certain organizations in Florida that work with children and vulnerable adults must link to the Agency for Health Care Administration’s (AHCA) new background checks resource in their job postings for any position that requires a screening through Florida’s Care Provider Background Screening Clearinghouse, commonly referred to
- [Several state AI laws to go into effect in 2026](https://gp1.com/several-state-ai-laws-to-go-into-effect-in-2026/) - Excerpted from a Barnes & Thornburg LLP Blog by Corey Bartkus Illinois, Texas, and Colorado are each set to implement laws governing the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the workforce in 2026, all while the federal government has signaled its intent to eliminate state-level regulations on AI. On Dec. 11, 2025, President Donald Trump
- [Background check challenges for 2026](https://gp1.com/background-check-challenges-for-2026/) - Happy New Year! And with a new year comes new challenges. Such challenges in 2026 center on steering through the intricate state and local laws involving Ban the Box, marijuana legality and credit checks. We must also keep an eye on the ever-increasing Artificial Intelligence (AI) fraud risks and managing data privacy demands. We decided to
- [White House considering reclassifying marijuana](https://gp1.com/white-house-considering-reclassifying-marijuana/) - Excerpted from a CNN Story by Kit Maher and Steve Contorno President Donald Trump said Monday that the White House is “very strongly” considering signing an executive order to reschedule marijuana to a lower drug classification, which would ease federal restrictions. “We are considering that because a lot of people want to see it —
- [GroupOne hosts annual holiday luncheon for staff members](https://gp1.com/groupone-hosts-annual-holiday-luncheon-for-staff-members-3/) - GroupOne Background Screening hosted its annual holiday luncheon yesterday for staff members at its offices in Las Colinas. Employees enjoyed a fajita lunch catered by Mi Cocina, with iced tea and lemonade, and chocolate cake and fruit tarts for dessert. Yum! The executive staff, to include President/CEO Stephen Love and the VP of Finance Delinda
- [Two turtle doves…and their office romance](https://gp1.com/two-turtle-dovesand-their-office-romance/) - Excerpted from a Verrill Blog by Hannah Owings Saturley Those turtle doves aren’t the only ones snuggling close at night… romance in the workplace can be exciting—but tricky—territory. While love may blossom by the water cooler, employers must carefully navigate risks to workplace culture, productivity, and legal compliance. Without clear guidance, even consensual relationships can
- [Medical debt in credit reports: What you need to know](https://gp1.com/medical-debt-in-credit-reports-what-you-need-to-know/) - Excerpted from a Ogletree, Deakins, Nash, Smoak & Stewart, P.C. Blog by Leah Shepherd With health care costs rising, recent legal developments have altered how medical debt shows up on credit reports that employers conduct on job applicants and employees. Employers may want to stay abreast of the changing legal landscape and exercise caution in
- [PODCAST: CFPB’s FCRA preemption flip and what it means](https://gp1.com/podcast-cfpbs-fcra-preemption-flip-and-what-it-means/) - Excerpted from a Troutman Pepper Locke Podcast with Dave Gettings, Kim Phan and Stefanie Jackman In this episode of FCRA Focus, the speakers will unpack the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s (CFPB) evolving interpretation of Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) preemption. They trace the timeline from the CFPB’s July 2022 interpretive rule, through its withdrawal in May
- [Take time to update your handbook](https://gp1.com/take-time-to-update-your-handbook/) - Excerpted from a Bradley Arant Boult Cummings LLP Blog by Cortlin Bond When did you last update your employee handbook? With the end of the year nearing, now is a good time. Your policies should provide clear guidelines to your workforce about what you expect of them. Policies should also be a guide to HR
- [The “Seven-Year Rule” – when does it apply?](https://gp1.com/the-seven-year-rule-when-does-it-apply/) - Wow, what a mess. As reported late last week, it appears the former superintendent of Des Moines Public Schools who was charged in a federal indictment with falsely claiming to be a U.S. citizen, had multiple red flags that were unreported in his background check. Part of the problem was his background check only went
- [What now? EEOC regains quorum](https://gp1.com/what-now-eeoc-regains-quorum/) - Excerpted from a Venable LLP Blog by Robin Burroughs and Imani Menard On October 7, 2025, the Senate confirmed Brittany Panuccio as the third commissioner of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), restoring the EEOC’s quorum and decision-making authority. The EEOC can take significant actions only when at least three of its five commissioners are
- [The 10 most common background screening mistakes](https://gp1.com/the-10-most-common-background-screening-mistakes/) - No one’s perfect, right? We make mistakes. But when it comes to background screening of your job candidates and employees, a mistake could have severe consequences. At GroupOne Background Screening, we believe an organization that runs background checks on all of its incoming employees is doing a lot of things right. But simply requiring pre-employment
- [Last name of “Smith” leads to teacher being wrongly ID'd](https://gp1.com/last-name-of-smith-leads-to-teacher-being-wrongly-idd/) - Excerpted from an ABC 7 News Story by Stephanie Sierra and Renee Koury It was a very ''unwelcome to California'' for a new schoolteacher in San Jose. She and her family had just moved to the state from Minnesota, when a background check upended their new life. She was mistakenly tagged as a convict -- and
- [Background checks: A $600K FCRA compliance mistake](https://gp1.com/background-checks-a-600k-fcra-compliance-mistake-2/) - Excerpted from an HR Morning Blog by Carol Warner Background checks are essential to hiring – but even small compliance missteps can lead to significant legal risk and costly settlements. Barnes & Noble, for example, paid $600,000 after a single footnote in their disclosure form sparked litigation. For HR leaders, this case remains a clear reminder to
- [Background checks and the government shutdown](https://gp1.com/background-checks-and-the-government-shutdown/) - We admit the government shutdown can be a pain, but it has not delayed much of what we do here at GroupOne Background Screening. There are some issues with E-Verify backlogs and federal record delays, and compliance can be difficult. During these difficult times, it’s good to detail which parts of the process are the
- [Laws protecting credit reports from medical debt to change](https://gp1.com/laws-protecting-credit-reports-from-medical-debt-to-change/) - Excerpted from a Global News Post by Ken Sweet The Trump administration is moving to overrule any state laws that may protect consumers’ credit reports from medical debt and other debt issues. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau has drafted what’s known as an interpretative rule related to the Fair Credit Reporting Act, interpreting the law
- [GroupOne employees participate in Dallas Heart Walk](https://gp1.com/groupone-employees-participate-in-dallas-heart-walk/) - More than 20 employees of GroupOne Background Screening and their affiliates the DFW Hospital Council (DFWHC), the DFWHC Foundation participated in the American Heart Association Heart Walk on Saturday, October 18 at the Levy Event Plaza in Irving. The annual 1-mile and 5k Heart Walk is designed to be a family-friendly event that brings communities
- [Credit Checks in Hiring: Key Issues](https://gp1.com/credit-checks-in-hiring-key-issues/) - Excerpted from a JDSupra Blog Evolving credit checks requirements means employers in financial services are challenged more than ever to stay current because they conduct credit checks on prospective candidates more frequently than those in many other industries. Even beyond roles where credit checks are legally required, financial services employers often rely on them to
- [What are the top 5 advantages of background checks?](https://gp1.com/what-are-the-top-5-advantages-of-background-checks/) - Did you know background checks benefit employers in multiple ways? The information they provide can help employers hire the right candidates, reduce employee turnover, enhance corporate culture, increase corporate profits, and contribute to your company’s overall success. We love lists here at GroupOne Background Screening, so we are going to provide one. Here’s the top
- [Visit GP1 at the HRSouthwest Conference in Fort Worth!](https://gp1.com/visit-gp1-at-the-hrsouthwest-conference-in-fort-worth/) - Working it in Cowtown! GroupOne Background Screening’s own David Graves and Leah Whitworth are manning Booth #413 over the next two days at the HRSouthwest Conference at the Fort Worth Convention Center. Drop by and pay them a visit as they discuss the advantages of our background screening, drug screening and WebVerify verification programs! The
- [What is the Form I9 Employment Eligibility Verification?](https://gp1.com/what-is-the-form-i9-employment-eligibility-verification/) - In the wake of the arrest of Des Moines Public School Superintendent Ian Roberts by U.S. Immigration Customs Enforcement for allegedly being in the U.S. illegally, quite a few questions have been asked about his Form I9 Employment Eligibility Verification. Did he fill out the form or didn’t he? Was his immigration status checked before hire? It
- [Why employers check credit and what they see](https://gp1.com/why-employers-check-credit-and-what-they-see/) - Excerpted from a Nerdwallet Blog by Amanda Barroso A credit check shows parts of your financial history. Employers may use it if the job involves handling money or private consumer information. Employers don't get to see your credit score during this process, so there's no minimum credit score to get hired. Instead, they review a
- [P.F. Chang's $80,000 religious discrimination settlement](https://gp1.com/p-f-changs-80000-religious-discrimination-settlement/) - Excerpted from a Lehr Middlebrooks Vreeland & Thompson, P.C. Blog by McKenzie Meade This article falls in line with recent blogs discussing the EEOC’s heightened focus on religious discrimination cases. P.F. Chang’s recent settlement serves as another reminder (or warning) to employers of the importance of accommodating sincerely held religious beliefs absent undue hardship. The EEOC announced that P.F.
- [When it comes to background checks, know your rights!](https://gp1.com/when-it-comes-to-background-checks-know-your-rights/) - It’s always good to review your rights when it comes to background checks. Oftentimes, it can be a complicated process, but it never hurts to know the steps involved. Applying for a job? When employers run a background check, the Fair Credit Reporting Act gives a candidate rights. Employers must get written permission before running
- [GroupOne's former President/CEO John Gavras has passed away](https://gp1.com/groupones-former-president-ceo-john-gavras-has-passed-away/) - It was with great sadness today that we learned of the passing of John Gavras, the DFW Hospital Council (DFWHC) and GroupOne Background Screening's former President/CEO. He was 84 years old. John joined DFWHC in 1976. At the time, the organization was known as the Dallas Hospital Council, an institution dating back to 1948. In
- [Have you heard of GroupOne’s WEB Verify System?](https://gp1.com/have-you-heard-of-groupones-web-verify-system/) - GroupOne’s Employment Verification System is designed to speed and standardize the process of verifying the employment history of current, past, and prospective employees. By automating what has been a manual and time-consuming process, time and money will be saved, and more accurate information will be provided.
- [Fentanyl seven times higher in random tests](https://gp1.com/fentanyl-seven-times-higher-in-random-tests/) - Excerpted from a PR Newswire Blog The percentage of employees in the general U.S. workforce testing positive for fentanyl in random drug tests far exceeded those in pre-employment testing, according to the 2025 Quest Diagnostics Drug Testing Index. The new report reveals changing patterns of drug use by the nation's workforce. While the analysis of
- [The Fair Credit Reporting Act—Who is covered?](https://gp1.com/the-fair-credit-reporting-act-who-is-covered/) - Excerpted from a Wiley Rein LLP Blog by Ian Barlow, Tawanna Lee, Duane Pozza and Kathleen Scott Companies that share or sell data, including data brokers, and companies that use data from other companies should pay close attention to the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) – particularly given renewed scrutiny of third-party data sales. The
- [Nursing homes failing to meet background check rules](https://gp1.com/nursing-homes-failing-to-meet-background-check-rules/) - Excerpted from a McKnight’s Blog by Jessica Towhey A federal watchdog has issued its third 2025 report analyzing state oversight of background checks for nursing home employees, finding mixed results so far on compliance and enforcement. The latest audit from the US Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General on Alabama’s practices found lax
- [10 actions to prevent AI litigation](https://gp1.com/10-actions-to-prevent-ai-litigation/) - Excerpted from a Fisher Phillips Blog by Michael Greco and Karen Odash An unsuccessful job applicant is suing Sirius XM Radio in federal court, claiming the company’s AI-powered hiring tool discriminated against him based on his race. Filed on August 4 in the Eastern District of Michigan, the plaintiff in Harper v. Sirius XM Radio, LLC alleges
- [Arrest of officer spurs questions about background checks](https://gp1.com/arrest-of-officer-spurs-questions-about-background-checks/) - We ran across an interesting story yesterday detailing the vetting process, or lack thereof, of police officers in a certain city. Essentially, a police officer was arrested for highly questionable behavior while making an arrest of a domestic violence suspect. Evidently, the officer lost his cool and sent explicit private images on the suspect’s phone
- [Trump administration looking at reclassifying marijuana](https://gp1.com/trump-administration-looking-at-reclassifying-marijuana/) - Excerpted from an ABC News Story by Alexander Hutzler President Donald Trump on Monday confirmed he and his administration are considering reclassifying marijuana as a less dangerous drug. Trump told reporters that it was early in the process but that he hoped to make a decision on the matter within the coming weeks. "We're looking
- [When a report of sexual harassment could cost millions](https://gp1.com/when-a-report-of-sexual-harassment-could-cost-millions/) - Excerpted from an Bradley Arant Boult Cummings LLP Blog by Timia Skelton and Anne Yuengert If an employee complains about a sexually suggestive picture circulating in the workplace that looks like her but is not, is that a hostile work environment complaint? It might be. In Lillian Carranza v. City of Los Angeles, a California appeals court
- [GP1 webinar “Behind the Curtain” has been posted online!](https://gp1.com/gp1-webinar-behind-the-curtain-has-been-posted-online/) - Hear from the experts! GroupOne Background Screening’s webinar "Behind the Curtain: An HR Director's Perspective on Background Screening" originally broadcast on August 6 has been posted online. This unique presentation detailed a conversation between new DFW Hospital Council HR Director Leah Whitworth and GroupOne’s HR Guru David Graves. Together, they discussed their decades of knowledge
- [GroupOne webinar “Behind the Curtain” is tomorrow!](https://gp1.com/groupone-webinar-behind-the-curtain-is-tomorrow/) - Hear from the experts! Join us for GroupOne Background Screening’s webinar “Behind the Curtain: An HR Director's Perspective on Background Screening” tomorrow on Wednesday, August 6 from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m., CDT. Last chance to register! This unique presentation will detail a conversation between new DFW Hospital Council HR Director Leah Whitworth and GroupOne’s HR
- [White House unveils AI Action Plan](https://gp1.com/white-house-unveils-ai-action-plan/) - Excerpted from an IAPP Blog my Caitlin Andrews The White House released its vision for artificial intelligence policy on July 23 with a heavy focus on breaking down barriers to the technology’s innovation and adoption, including another attempt to stop states from enacting their own AI regulation. The 28-page "America’s AI Action Plan" stems from President
- [GroupOne webinar “Behind the Curtain” in one week!](https://gp1.com/groupone-webinar-behind-the-curtain-in-one-week/) - Hear from the experts! Join us for GroupOne Background Screening’s webinar “Behind the Curtain: An HR Director's Perspective on Background Screening” in just one week on Wednesday, August 6 from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m., CDT. This unique presentation will detail a conversation between new DFW Hospital Council HR Director Leah Whitworth and GroupOne’s HR Guru
- [GroupOne webinar “Behind the Curtain” in two weeks!](https://gp1.com/groupone-webinar-behind-the-curtain-in-two-weeks/) - Hear from the experts! Join us for GroupOne Background Screening’s webinar “Behind the Curtain: An HR Director's Perspective on Background Screening” in just two weeks on Wednesday, August 6 from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m., CDT. This unique presentation will detail a conversation between new DFW Hospital Council HR Director Leah Whitworth and GroupOne’s HR Guru
- [It’s elementary my dear HR director!](https://gp1.com/its-elementary-my-dear-hr-director/) - Is an organization as good as its people? Here at GroupOne Background Screening, we say unequivocally yes! We understand the need to hire qualified employees is crucial to your business success. It is most certainly crucial to GroupOne’s success. Every member of our team is a licensed private investigator. Now, we’re not saying we can
- [Does “old school” intuition work?](https://gp1.com/does-old-school-intuition-work/) - Yes, the proper definition of “old school” generally refers to ideas or styles that are traditional, conservative, or characteristic of an earlier era. Here at GroupOne Background Screening, we believe “old school” could also be defined as “reckless.” Specifically, we were hired by an HR director to run a background check on a certain employee. It
- [New EEOC nominee and changes to EEOC guidance](https://gp1.com/new-eeoc-nominee-and-changes-to-eeoc-guidance/) - Excerpted from a Skoler Abbott P.C. Blog by Kayla E. Snider Recently, President Donald Trump nominated Brittany Panuccio, an Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Florida, to serve as a commissioner for the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). The EEOC is a bipartisan commission made up of five presidentially appointed members. However, the
- [GroupOne webinar “Behind the Curtain” set for August 6!](https://gp1.com/groupone-webinar-behind-the-curtain-set-for-august-6/) - We always enjoy a discussion between experts! Join us for GroupOne Background Screening’s webinar “Behind the Curtain: An HR Director's Perspective on Background Screening” on Wednesday, August 6 from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m., CDT. This unique presentation will detail a conversation between new DFW Hospital Council HR Director Leah Whitworth and GroupOne’s HR Guru David
- [How about a Background Check “Check” list?](https://gp1.com/how-about-a-background-check-check-list/) - We could all use a good check list, right? How about a Background Check Check List? As you know, background checks should be performed in accordance with federal, state and local laws. It’s important to understand the rules that apply to your business. A good background check can provide employers with crucial job-related information such
- [Background checks: A $600K FCRA compliance mistake](https://gp1.com/background-checks-a-600k-fcra-compliance-mistake/) - Excerpted from an HR Morning Blog by Carol Warner Background checks are essential to hiring – but even small compliance missteps can lead to significant legal risk and costly settlements. Barnes & Noble, for example, paid $600,000 after a single footnote in their disclosure form sparked litigation. For HR leaders, this case remains a clear reminder to
- [Texas considers Ban-the-Box law: What you need to know](https://gp1.com/texas-considers-ban-the-box-law-what-you-need-to-know/) - Excerpted from a Dykema Blog by Katy Jo Richards In March 2025, House Bill 2466 (HB 2466), also known as the “Ban the Box” law, was referred to the House Workforce Subcommittee. If passed and signed into law, HB 2466 would take effect September 1, 2025, and prohibit employers from asking about an applicant’s criminal
- [FL legislation requires public webpage on background checks](https://gp1.com/fl-legislation-requires-public-webpage-on-background-checks/) - Excerpted from a Florida Politics Blog by Jesse Scheckner It should clarify what can sometimes be an unclear process. A new law aimed at demystifying Florida’s background screening process is now on the books. This week, Gov. Ron DeSantis signed HB 531, which directs the Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) to launch a publicly accessible webpage that
- [Deepfakes and harassment: What employers need to know](https://gp1.com/deepfakes-and-harassment-what-employers-need-to-know/) - Excerpted from a Littler Mendelson PC Blog by Ivie A. Serioux and Jerry Zhang The landscape of workplace harassment has evolved beyond physical offices, after-hours texts and off-site events. Employers now face a sophisticated and deeply unsettling threat: deepfake technology. Once the domain of tech experts, AI-powered tools that generate hyper-realistic but fabricated videos, images,
- [Podcast: Inside the CFPB’s FCRA guidance withdrawal](https://gp1.com/podcast-inside-the-cfpbs-fcra-guidance-withdrawal/) - Podcast excerpted from a Troutman Pepper Locke Post In this special crossover episode between FCRA Focus and The Consumer Finance Podcast, Kim Phan, Dave Gettings, Chris Willis, and Cindy Hanson explore the recent withdrawal of Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) guidance affecting the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). This episode provides a comprehensive analysis of how these changes
- [Managing managers: Risks of employee monitoring platforms](https://gp1.com/managing-managers-risks-of-employee-monitoring-platforms/) - Excerpted from a Jackson Lewis PC Blog by Joseph J. Lazzarotti In today’s hybrid and remote work environment, organizations are increasingly turning to digital employee management platforms that promise productivity insights, compliance enforcement, and even behavioral analytics. These tools—offered by a growing number of vendors—can monitor everything from application usage and website visits to keystrokes,
- [GroupOne stands with hospitals for workplace safety](https://gp1.com/groupone-stands-with-hospitals-for-workplace-safety/) - Today, GroupOne Background Screening is honoring #HAVhope National Day of Awareness in coordination with hospitals, health systems, nurses, doctors and other health professional across the country, to combat violence and create awareness. Today, June 6, 2025, GroupOne stands together with the healthcare community against violence in our workplaces and communities. Since the pandemic, workplace violence
- [Consequences of restricting landlord background checks](https://gp1.com/consequences-of-restricting-landlord-background-checks/) - Excerpted from a Washington Policy Center article by Mark Harmsworth The City of Olympia, Washington is considering adding extreme restrictions for property owners on the tenant background checks they can run prior to a tenant occupying a rental property. A recent article in The Olympian highlights a statewide trend to restrict property owners’ ability to conduct criminal
- [Considerations for the use of AI in recruitment](https://gp1.com/considerations-for-the-use-of-ai-in-recruitment/) - A growing trend is the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in recruitment. Yes, AI appears to be taking over all aspects of our lives, but there are productive ways to use the technology to improve your hiring processes. Today, the use of AI when recruiting your job candidates can automate stages of hiring, from sourcing
- [The history of employment background checks](https://gp1.com/the-history-of-employment-background-checks/) - Did you know pre-employment background checks have only existed for approximately 60 years? Since GroupOne Background Screening has been around for 37 of those years, we can proudly say we’ve existed for more than half the industry’s existence! So, let’s take a trip back into history. While background checks had its first beginnings in the
- [EEOC victory provides lessons on applicant drug testing](https://gp1.com/eeoc-victory-provides-lessons-on-applicant-drug-testing/) - Excerpted from an Ogletree Deakins Blog by Fiona Ong A recent jury verdict reminds employers of their reasonable accommodation obligations for applicants under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), in the context of drug testing. The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) sued a retirement community for denying employment to an applicant based on a
- [CFPB's guidance exit and its impact on screening industry](https://gp1.com/cfpbs-guidance-exit-and-its-impact-on-screening-industry/) - Excerpted from a JDSUPRA Blog by Mark Metrey On May 9, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) formally withdrew dozens of interpretive rules, policy statements, advisory opinions, bulletins, and circulars issued over the past decade. In a sweeping notice published in the Federal Register, the Bureau stated it was rescinding these guidance materials to reduce regulatory burdens,
- [How to evaluate third-party background check providers](https://gp1.com/how-to-evaluate-third-party-background-check-providers/) - Today, background checks on job candidates are commonplace. According to research by the Professional Background Screening Association, 95% of companies today utilize some form of background checks as part of their hiring process. In today’s world, background checks are a necessity for a company to function in a safe and productive manner. In a 2017 survey
- [Fair Chance Hiring: Balancing business with opportunities](https://gp1.com/fair-chance-hiring-balancing-business-with-opportunities/) - Excerpted from a JDSUPRA Blog by Noel Diem Finding qualified talent is a challenge for many businesses today. But what if there’s a pool of skilled workers that many companies overlook? Fair chance hiring opens doors for people with criminal records while helping employers fill critical positions. This approach ensures that qualified candidates aren’t automatically rejected
- [10 ways to speed up background checks](https://gp1.com/10-ways-to-speed-up-background-checks/) - As they say, “Time is money.” In today’s market, hiring the right candidate quickly is important. Expediting your background checks can help you retain good candidates before they’re hired away by competitors. Based on decades of experience at GroupOne Background Screening, here’s 10 tips to speed up your process. 1. Experienced Provider Retain a quality provider
- [Can eating poppy seeds affect drug test results?](https://gp1.com/can-eating-poppy-seeds-affect-drug-test-results/) - Excerpted from a UFHealth Blog by Gary Reisfield The U.S. Defense Department issued a memo on Feb. 17, 2023, warning service members to avoid eating poppy seeds because doing so may result in a positive urine test for the opiate codeine. Addiction and pain medicine specialist Gary Reisfield explains what affects the opiate content of poppy seeds and how
- [Workplace civility and “Return-to-Office” mandates](https://gp1.com/workplace-civility-and-return-to-office-mandates/) - Excerpted from a Hall Benefits Law Blog Companies are increasingly embracing “Return-to-Office” (RTO) mandates, but new Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) research reveal an unexpected consequence of those mandates. The incidence of uncivil acts occurring in the workplace is substantially higher for employees whose employers have issued RTO mandates. According to the SHRM Q1 2025
- [GroupOne pays a visit to NTX SHRM Conference in Denton](https://gp1.com/groupone-pays-a-visit-to-ntx-shrm-conference-in-denton/) - Representatives from GroupOne One Background Screening are enjoying the sights and sounds today in Denton, Texas for the Annual North Texas SHRM Conference. The two-day event is being held in the Embassy Suites – Denton Convention Center. Manning the GroupOne booth is none other than David Graves, HR Guru and Business Sales Representative, and Leah
- [College’s background check misses 3 exposure charges](https://gp1.com/colleges-background-check-misses-3-exposure-charges/) - We ran across this unfortunate case in Florida pertaining to background checks. A college had hired an accomplished man to serve as communications director late last year. At the time of his hiring, he had been charged three times for indecent exposure. This criminal history was not discovered by the school’s background check process. The
- [Background screening compliance updates for employers](https://gp1.com/background-screening-compliance-updates-for-employers/) - Excerpted from a Forbes article by Alonzo Martinez Employers entered 2025 facing one of the most dynamic and fast-moving compliance landscapes in recent memory. In the first quarter alone, lawmakers across the country advanced new rules affecting background screening, drug testing, pay equity, and the use of artificial intelligence in hiring. Organizations that conduct background
- [Why drug screening can benefit your workplace](https://gp1.com/why-drug-screening-can-benefit-your-workplace/) - Let’s count the reasons why GroupOne Background Screenings’ drug testing program can benefit your workplace. In fact, there are 10 reasons to consider. And yes, we are going to list each one. Bottom line, no matter the type of drug tests you implement, all will contribute to maintaining a safe and healthy work environment. Employees
- [The scoop on avoiding common background check mistakes](https://gp1.com/the-scoop-on-avoiding-common-background-check-mistakes/) - Hey, we understand, we all make mistakes. The key is not making the mistake in the first place. Here at GroupOne Background Screening, we believe background checks are a crucial step in hiring a competent, safe and trustworthy staff. The background checks we perform are an in-depth analysis of past records and professional conduct. It’s
- [AI in hiring: What new federal policies mean for employers](https://gp1.com/ai-in-hiring-what-new-federal-policies-mean-for-employers/) - Excerpted from a Phelps Dunbar LLP Blog by Chris B. Bach In the rapidly evolving landscape of employment practices, artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a transformative tool, offering efficiencies and data-driven insights. However, the integration of AI in hiring processes brings complex legal challenges, particularly concerning disparate impact claims. Recent developments, including shifts in
- [U.S. may scan social media for green card vetting](https://gp1.com/u-s-may-scan-social-media-for-green-card-vetting/) - Excerpted from an Economic Times article US immigration authorities are seeking public input on a proposal to collect social media handles from applicants for immigration benefits, including green cards and citizenship. The proposal follows an executive order from former President Donald Trump aimed at enhancing national security and vetting standards. The Department of Homeland Security
- [DOT’s oral-fluid drug testing raises safety concerns](https://gp1.com/dots-oral-fluid-drug-testing-raises-safety-concerns/) - Excerpted from a Transport Topics article by Eric Miller The addition later this year of oral-fluid drug testing for marijuana, which typically detects use only for up to 72 hours after use, could allow truck drivers to use the drug and avoid detection, according to the CEO of a real-time impairment detection testing technology company. “The Department
- [EEOC and DOJ issue warning against “DEI discrimination”](https://gp1.com/eeoc-and-doj-issue-warning-against-dei-discrimination/) - Excerpted from a Thompson Hine LLP Blog by Jessica MacKeigan and Matthew Kissling On March 19, 2025, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) issued two technical assistance documents outlining their positions on discrimination related to diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) in the workplace. The DOJ released a
- [CA: How AI hiring rules could impact background checks](https://gp1.com/ca-how-ai-hiring-rules-could-impact-background-checks/) - Excerpted from a Forbes article by Alonzo Martinez Criminal background checks have long been a critical hiring tool, but accessing criminal records is becoming increasingly difficult. In California, a 2021 court ruling made it more difficult for background screening firms to verify criminal records, leaving employers with fewer ways to assess candidate risk. As a
- [New MA shelter rules include background screening](https://gp1.com/new-ma-shelter-rules-include-background-screening/) - Excerpted from a MassLive Blog by John L. Micek New regulations taking effect March 14 aim to toughen the background screening for people entering the state’s emergency shelter system after it was rocked by reports of violent crimes committed by people living there. People who refuse to submit to a check through the state’s Criminal Offender
- [Here’s a few background check statistics for 2025](https://gp1.com/heres-a-few-background-check-statistics-for-2025/) - Everyone loves a list of statistics, right? We decided to put together a few background check stats for your reading pleasure. You’ve heard this before, but we’ll say it again. The incentive of background checks is to protect the safety and security of your company’s workers. Here are some statistics that detail trends in the field.
- [Police data removed, but states can share background info](https://gp1.com/police-data-removed-but-states-can-share-background-info/) - In the swipe of a pen, President Trump has shutdown a federal system housing data on police officers. His executive order signed on Jan. 20 appears to be a political move. The National Law Enforcement Accountability Database (NLEAD) was launched in 2023 as an electronic archive of professional records of federal law enforcement officers. The purpose of
- [WA: New hiring rules could reshape background checks](https://gp1.com/wa-new-hiring-rules-could-reshape-background-checks/) - Excerpted from a Forbes article by Alonzo Martinez Washington employers may soon face some of the nation’s strictest limits on criminal background checks. House Bill 1747, if passed, will significantly expand the state’s Fair Chance Act, delaying when employers can conduct background checks, restricting how they consider criminal history in hiring decisions, and imposing steep financial
- [How Trump administration actions affect data privacy](https://gp1.com/how-trump-administration-actions-affect-data-privacy/) - Excerpted from an IAPP Blog by Brian Hengesbaugh and Lukas Feiler To date, the Trump administration's actions have been swift across many domains, focusing on tariffs, trade, immigration, border control, the Ukraine war and more. While none of the administration's moves have directly affected the core U.S. elements that underpin the EU-U.S. Data Privacy Framework,
- [Stricter background checks finds support in NM](https://gp1.com/stricter-background-checks-finds-support-in-nm/) - Excerpted from a Source NM Blog by Leah Romero New Mexico is facing an increase in severe cases of abuse, neglect and exploitation of disabled and older residents, according to Dan Lanari, director of the Health Care Authority’s Division of Health Improvement. Lanari told members of the House Health and Human Services Committee this month that
- [Background screening: Unmasking a hidden threat](https://gp1.com/background-screening-unmasking-a-hidden-threat/) - Excerpted from a UBS Blog by Patrick Kolb According to an article recently published in the Neue Zürcher Zeitung (NZZ) newspaper, North Korean IT experts are applying for jobs in Switzerland and Germany under fake identities. The applicants utilize advanced tactics to mask their origins, including deepfake identities, proxy servers, and pseudonymous online accounts. They send
- [With federal change, state Attorneys General loom large](https://gp1.com/with-federal-change-state-attorneys-general-loom-large/) - Excerpted from a Wilson Sonsini Blog by Christopher Olsen, Maneesha Mithal and Rebecca Garcia We are less than two months into the new Trump administration and are seeing an unprecedented wave of activity and major changes at federal agencies. These changes promise to bring significant disruption to the staff and negatively impact the typical activities
- [After 35 years, long-time GroupOne employee retires](https://gp1.com/after-35-years-long-time-groupone-employee-retires/) - After 35 years, GroupOne Background Screening HR Director Jan Cavender has decided to call it a career. Today is officially her last day at the office. She announced her retirement two months ago, and has graciously worked with her replacement, Leah Whitworth, since then. Jan started her career at the DFW Hospital Council (DFWHC) in
- [Q&A: Will states take the lead in consumer protection?](https://gp1.com/qa-will-states-take-the-lead-in-consumer-protection/) - Excerpted from a JDSUPRA Blog On Saturday, February 1, Rohit Chopra was dismissed as Director of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), with Secretary Scott Bessent appointed as Acting Director. The following weekend, Office of Management and Budget director Russell Vought was named the Acting Director and ordered the Bureau to halt virtually all supervisory, enforcement and litigation activity while new
- [ICE raids and immigration enforcement – Are you prepared?](https://gp1.com/ice-raids-and-immigration-enforcement-are-you-prepared/) - Excerpted from a BakerHostetler Blog by David Serwer, David Diorio and Timothy Payne With the new Trump administration in place, immigration enforcement is already ramping up. Employers across various industries – including healthcare and manufacturing – have begun experiencing increased workplace audits, I-9 inspections, and even surprise U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) enforcement actions
- [Winter is here – inclement weather and background checks](https://gp1.com/winter-is-here-inclement-weather-and-background-checks/) - As they ominously say, “Winter is coming.” Actually, it’s already here! The winter of 2025 is wreaking havoc on employment background checks. More specifically, the winter weather has caused more courts to close in more jurisdictions across the country. And when the courts close, that delays criminal background checks.It seems like every day at GroupOne Background Screening
- [The impact of CFPB operations halt on hiring practices](https://gp1.com/the-impact-of-cfpb-operations-halt-on-hiring-practices/) - Learn how the CFPB operations halt impacts hiring practices, background screening, and compliance. Stay informed on key changes affecting employers.
- [Drug Screening 101 - Know the basics](https://gp1.com/drug-screening-101-know-the-basics/) - Did you know GroupOne Background Screening offers drug screenings? Well, now you do! Here’s our annual look at our drug screening services, a sort of “101” if you will. A drug screen or drug test is the collection and analysis of urine, blood, hair or saliva to evaluate for the presence of chemicals and contaminants left
- [Tattoos in the workplace: What are the considerations?](https://gp1.com/tattoos-in-the-workplace-what-are-the-considerations/) - We get it. Tattoos are commonplace. We were at a soccer game just the other day and noticed a mom with a butterfly on her ankle. Nurses with arm tattoos working the hospital floor have become an everyday sight. But tattoos are now in the headlines thanks to a January 22, Sean Hannity interview with
- [Will 2025 be the year we return to the office?](https://gp1.com/will-2025-be-the-year-we-return-to-the-office/) - As they say, the times they are a changing, and since the most recent presidential inauguration, such a term has never been more appropriate. One trend dominating conversations is the dreaded return to office. The expectation for employees to work in-office appears to be growing this year, signaling a possible end to the widespread remote
- [3D printers dangerous? They may require a background check](https://gp1.com/3d-printers-dangerous-they-may-require-a-background-check/) - Excerpted from a Fast Company Blog by Henry Chandonnet As 3D-printed gun violence abounds, some lawmakers are looking to cut the problem at the root. The New York state senate is currently evaluating a bill that would dramatically change the 3D printing market. Merchants looking to sell the printers, or at least those that are
- [State enforcement actions of privacy laws are happening](https://gp1.com/state-enforcement-actions-of-privacy-laws-are-happening/) - Excerpted from a JDSupra Blog The enforcement landscape of recently enacted state consumer privacy laws in the U.S. is beginning to take shape, with state attorneys general (AGs) or designated specialized enforcement agencies leading the charge. The absence of comprehensive federal legislation, along with a lack of private rights of action in most state privacy
- [Using smart devices in the workplace may not be so smart](https://gp1.com/using-smart-devices-in-the-workplace-may-not-be-so-smart/) - Excerpted from a Bradley Arant Boult Cummings LLP Blog by Cortlin Bond and Anne Yuengert What does the EEOC have to do with smart watches, rings, glasses, helmets and other devices that track bodily movement and other data? These devices, known as “wearables,” can track location, brain activity, heart rate, and other mental or physical
- [GP1 webinar “Background Screening Mistakes” posted online](https://gp1.com/gp1-webinar-background-screening-mistakes-posted-online/) - Would you like to avoid legal disasters, bad hiring decisions and squandered resources? If so, check out GroupOne Background Screening’s webinar “Common Mistakes in Background Screening, And How to Avoid Them” originally broadcast on January 23. The webinar has now been posted online. In today’s fast-evolving employment landscape, background screening practices are rapidly adapting to new technology,
- [Considerations for Social Media Policies in 2025](https://gp1.com/considerations-for-social-media-policies-in-2025/) - Excerpted from a Bradley Arant Boult Cummings LLP Blog by Katherine Griffin and Matthew Lonerga Whether or not the TikTok ban is upheld, employers should be aware of some social media trends stemming from the app that are here to stay. As social media becomes inextricably intertwined with employees’ lives, content from their daily routines
- [GP1 webinar “Mistakes in Background Screening” in two days!](https://gp1.com/gp1-webinar-mistakes-in-background-screening-in-two-days/) - Would you like to avoid legal disasters, bad hiring decisions and squandered resources? So would we! Join us days as we discuss these topics during GroupOne Background Screening’s webinar “Common Mistakes in Background Screening, And How to Avoid Them” this Thursday, Jan. 23 from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m., CT. In today’s fast-evolving employment landscape, background screening practices are rapidly
- [GP1 webinar “Mistakes in Background Screening” in one week!](https://gp1.com/gp1-webinar-mistakes-in-background-screening-in-one-week/) - Would you like to avoid legal disasters, bad hiring decisions and squandered resources? So would we! Join us next week as we discuss these topics during GroupOne Background Screening’s webinar “Common Mistakes in Background Screening, And How to Avoid Them” on Thursday, Jan. 23 from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m., CT. In today’s fast-evolving employment landscape, background screening practices are
- [Is it legal to search an employee's social media history?](https://gp1.com/is-it-legal-to-search-an-employees-social-media-history/) - Social media searches are legal, but they can also be treacherous. A recent Professional Background Screening Association (PBSA) survey found that 90% of employers conduct background checks on full-time employees, a number that is increasing annually. The same survey revealed a shocking 45% of the resumes received by potential job applicants contained discrepancies involving work
- [HR checklist for U.S. employers to consider in 2025](https://gp1.com/hr-checklist-for-u-s-employers-to-consider-in-2025/) - Excerpted from a Reed Smith LLP Blog by Mark S. Goldstein While the end of a calendar quarter is a good time to review your business’s HR-related practices and procedures, the start of Q1 seems to be particularly popular. With that in mind, we have compiled the following checklist of potential action items for U.S.
- [Consistent background checks amidst the nursing shortage](https://gp1.com/consistent-background-checks-amidst-the-nursing-shortage/) - For many years, the nursing profession has been facing an extreme shortage, oftentimes inspired by burnout since the COVID-19 pandemic. As recently as 2023, the U.S. saw a shortage of more than 1 million nurses. This difficult situation has created many challenges while recruiting new nurses and ensuring high standards of patient care. The Kaiser Permanente
- [GP1 webinar “Mistakes in Background Screening” on Jan. 23!](https://gp1.com/gp1-webinar-mistakes-in-background-screening-on-jan-23-2/) - Would you like to avoid legal disasters, bad hiring decisions and squandered resources? So would we! Join us as we discuss these topics during GroupOne Background Screening’s webinar “Common Mistakes in Background Screening, And How to Avoid Them” on Thursday, Jan. 23 from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m., CT. In today’s fast-evolving employment landscape, background screening practices are rapidly adapting
- [2025 Predictions: Clean Slate Laws, ID Fraud, AI Compliance](https://gp1.com/2025-predictions-clean-slate-laws-id-fraud-ai-compliance/) - Excerpted from a Forbes article by Alonzo Martinez As 2025 begins, employers face a rapidly evolving landscape in hiring and background screening shaped by legislative developments, technological advancements, and emerging threats. Three key issues are poised to dominate the year: the advancement of clean slate laws, the growing adoption of fraudulent identities by threat actors,
- [GP1 webinar “Mistakes in Background Screening” on Jan. 23!](https://gp1.com/gp1-webinar-mistakes-in-background-screening-on-jan-23/) - Would you like to avoid legal disasters, bad hiring decisions and squandered resources? So would we! Join us as we discuss these topics during GroupOne Background Screening’s webinar “Common Mistakes in Background Screening, And How to Avoid Them” on Thursday, Jan. 23 from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m., CT. In today’s fast-evolving employment landscape, background screening practices are rapidly adapting
- [GroupOne hosts annual holiday luncheon for staff members](https://gp1.com/groupone-hosts-annual-holiday-luncheon-for-staff-members-2/) - GroupOne Background Screening hosted its annual holiday luncheon today for staff members at its offices in Las Colinas. Employees enjoyed a fajita lunch catered by Mi Cocina, with iced tea and lemonade, and chocolate cake and fruit tarts for dessert. The executive staff, to include President/CEO Stephen Love, also presented gift cards to employees. We
- [Ready for the latest U.S. State Consumer Privacy Laws?](https://gp1.com/ready-for-the-latest-u-s-state-consumer-privacy-laws/) - Excerpted from a Squire Patton Boggs LLP Blog by Alan Friel and Alexandra Kiosse Nineteen states have followed the lead of California and passed consumer privacy laws. Three went into effect this year and eight will become effective in 2025. The remainder become effective in 2026. Charts at the end of this post track effective
- [National landlords' screening process inspires lawsuit](https://gp1.com/national-landlords-screening-process-inspires-lawsuit/) - Excerpted from an NBC News article by Gretchen Morgenson Two large private-equity-backed landlords discriminated against prospective tenants by relying on screening systems reporting inaccurate information about applicants’ previous evictions and criminal histories, according to two lawsuits filed November 20 by an Indianapolis housing nonprofit group. The lawsuits follow complaints by tenants and their advocates about
- [Fraud awareness and the importance of background checks](https://gp1.com/fraud-awareness-and-the-importance-of-background-checks/) - Did you know this is International Fraud Awareness Week (November 17-23)? Well, now you do! Here at GroupOne Background Screening, we thought this would be a great opportunity to discuss how to protect your company from fraud. With advances in technology, including artificial intelligence (AI), many companies have implemented sophisticated fraud prevention and detection strategies.
- [To avoid background check, man claims he’s undercover cop](https://gp1.com/to-avoid-background-check-man-claims-hes-undercover-cop/) - We ran across an interesting case in Florida where a man claimed to be an undercover police officer to avoid a background check. The man was arrested last week by state police. The gentleman was attempting to lease a residential property and in order to avoid a background check, he submitted a falsified letter claiming
- [Maryland Co. further restricts criminal background checks](https://gp1.com/maryland-co-further-restricts-criminal-background-checks/) - In September, an Ordinance enacted in Prince George’s County, Maryland took effect to further restrict the ability of employers to conduct criminal background checks on applicants. Employers should be aware of this new “Ban the Box” law and similar laws sprouting across the U.S. The Ordinance called “Access to Employment for Returning Citizens” (Bill CB-019-2024) amended the county’s Fair Criminal
- [Background check plan helps 27 states with long-term care](https://gp1.com/background-check-plan-helps-27-states-with-long-term-care/) - Excerpted from a McKnights Senior Living Blog by Kimberly Bonvissuto A national background check program was so successful in helping states develop or enhance systems for conducting background checks of prospective long-term care employees that more than a quarter million prospective employees were disqualified from working in the sector, even after funding for the program
- [Whatcha watching? CFPB’s new advice on employer monitoring](https://gp1.com/whatcha-watching-cfpbs-new-advice-on-employer-monitoring/) - Excerpted from a Taft Stettinius & Hollister LLP Blog by Michael J. Zbiegien, Jr. With the rise in remote work, not to mention better technology, many employers have begun using apps and other services to monitor employees’ activities to track, assess, and evaluate workers. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) recently issued a Circular stating that employers’
- [Lack of background checks leads to expensive lawsuit](https://gp1.com/lack-of-background-checks-leads-to-expensive-lawsuit/) - Better safe than sorry, as we say here at GroupOne Background Screening. Earlier this month it was announced a major rideshare company is facing a class action lawsuit due to hundreds of allegations of sexual assault occurring during rides. In fact, the company has received thousands of similar complaints from riders claiming harassment. It appears the Northern
- [Alert against threat of hiring North Korean remote workers](https://gp1.com/alert-against-threat-of-hiring-north-korean-remote-workers/) - Excerpted from a JDSUPRA Blog The New York State Department of Financial Services (NYDFS) issued an industry letter outlining the threats posed to U.S. companies who hire remote technology workers linked to North Korea and may embezzle funds from their new employers. On November 1, 2024, NYDFS issued guidance warning companies against an increasing risk posed from
- [Why new employee screening, vetting is important](https://gp1.com/why-new-employee-screening-vetting-is-important/) - Excerpted from a Long Island Business News Blog by Ed Moltzen Pressure to bring new employees on board in a tight labor market might lead a business to take shortcuts in the vetting process. However, that can create even bigger problems: tarred reputation, money loss, or legal liability if the wrong employee gets in the
- [Workplace incivility has gone virtual!](https://gp1.com/workplace-incivility-has-gone-virtual/) - It was probably a matter of time. During the post-COVID 19 era, employees working remote have become commonplace. Even for those dedicated souls working in the office, communications usually take place via email, Teams, Zoom, Slack, and similar virtual programs. With increased virtual use has come an increase in uncivil behavior. We’ve all heard of
- [CFPB issues warning on use of AI tools for hiring decisions](https://gp1.com/cfpb-issues-warning-on-use-of-ai-tools-for-hiring-decisions/) - Excerpted from a RetailWire Blog by Jon Houke The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) cautioned businesses that use “invasive” technology to evaluate or spy on workers could face legal trouble. The increasing use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools or algorithmic scores provided by third parties prompted the agency’s warning. According to the CFPB, businesses that
- [A few best practices for background screening](https://gp1.com/a-few-best-practices-for-background-screening/) - The rules they are a changing, as we like to say at GroupOne Background Screening. But new laws are a constant in our industry, with key regulatory changes taking place frequently. We’ll be the first to admit it’s tough to navigate. But there are fundamental insights HR directors should be aware of when navigating the
- [To-be-expunged crime records barred from background checks](https://gp1.com/to-be-expunged-crime-records-barred-from-background-checks/) - Excerpted from a New Jersey Monitor article by Nikita Biryouov A Senate panel approved legislation Monday that would bar the New Jersey State Police from releasing information about to-be-expunged crimes in the course of background checks. The bill won unanimous approval from the Senate Law and Public Safety Committee as state authorities continue to face an expungement backlog
- [DOT proposes using e-forms for drug and alcohol testing](https://gp1.com/dot-proposes-using-e-forms-for-drug-and-alcohol-testing/) - Excerpted from a Safety+Health Blog The Department of Transportation is accepting comment on a proposed rule that would allow the use of electronic forms and signatures for drug and alcohol testing. Published Oct. 15, the proposal would “provide additional flexibility and reduced costs for the industry while maintaining the integrity and confidentiality requirements of the drug and alcohol
- [Is your workplace election ready?](https://gp1.com/is-your-workplace-election-ready/) - Excerpted from a Covington & Burling LLP Blog by Lindsay Burke, Even Parness, Carolyn Rashby and Nori Lu With Election Day just weeks away, employers should quickly brush up on laws that permit employees to take time off to vote. There is no federal law permitting time off to vote, but a majority of states
- [GroupOne hosting a booth during today’s HRSW Conference!](https://gp1.com/groupone-hosting-a-booth-during-todays-hrsw-conference/) - GroupOne Background Screening’s David Graves is hosting a booth today at the HRSouthwest Conference (HRSWC) at the Fort Worth Convention Center. HRSWC is the premier regional human resources conference in the U.S. providing more than 100 educational sessions from thought-leading speakers, an abundance of networking opportunities and an exciting Marketplace of more than 200 HR
- [Pre-Employment Checks 101 – All you need to know!](https://gp1.com/pre-employment-checks-101-all-you-need-to-know/) - It’s a good question. Simply put, “Are you hiring the right candidates?” Here at GroupOne Background Screening, we like to consider ourselves your defense system when hiring a quality workforce. To make sure you’re using background screenings to your advantage, we decided to put together a “Pre-Employment Checks 101” blog. In this post, we’re going
- [Impending state privacy laws going into effect in 2024-2025](https://gp1.com/impending-state-privacy-laws-going-into-effect-in-2024-2025/) - Excerpted from a JD Supra Blog Over the past several years, the number of states with comprehensive consumer data privacy laws has increased exponentially from just a handful—California, Colorado, Virginia, Connecticut, and Utah—to up to twenty by some counts. Many of these state laws will go into effect starting Q4 of 2024 through 2025. We
- [Uber launches rider verification program as safety measure](https://gp1.com/uber-launches-rider-verification-program-as-safety-measure/) - Uber announced this week it will be expanding its rider verification program across the U.S. starting Sept. 18. The expansion has been inspired by several incidents over the last year where drivers have been assaulted and even kidnapped. In response, the company began testing a more vigorous verification feature as part of a new campaign to protect
- [Five tips for political peace in the workplace](https://gp1.com/five-tips-for-political-peace-in-the-workplace/) - Excerpted from a Constangy Brooks Smith & Prophete LLP Blog by Robin Shea Dear Miss Mannerly: My employees have strong political views, and since the Presidential debate the other night, they are out of control. They are split about evenly between Democrats and Republicans, with a smattering of "undecideds" and third-party supporters mixed in. I
- [Are U.S. employers ready for “Right to Disconnect” laws?](https://gp1.com/are-u-s-employers-ready-for-right-to-disconnect-laws/) - Excerpted from a FordHarrison LLP Blog by Nicole Falcey U.S. employers should be aware of the global trend of “right to disconnect” laws and should review their policies on after-hours communications to stay ahead of social and legal changes. Last week, Australia's new "right to disconnect" law went into effect. The law protects employees who
- [GroupOne’s WebVerify – An Amazing Verification System!](https://gp1.com/groupones-webverify-an-amazing-verification-system/) - It’s automated, it’s accurate and it’s amazing! WebVerify is GroupOne’s web-based system providing instantaneous employment and salary history on current and previous employees in place of those numerous phone calls to your HR team. This automated service conveniently provides an alternative for your staff having to respond to verification requests from mortgage lenders or companies wanting to
- [Cat adopted, then abused - some call for background checks](https://gp1.com/cat-adopted-then-abused-some-call-for-background-checks/) - Excerpted from a Palm Beach Daily News story by Kristina Webb The black-and-white cat shivered as it walked slowly along the Midtown Beach seawall. Mary Adam de Villiers couldn’t believe it: Could this be Ace, the same cat she hoped to find in the middle of the night, with just a flashlight, a towel and
- [Story of dead KS official shows why background checks matter](https://gp1.com/story-of-dead-ks-official-shows-why-background-checks-matter/) - Excerpted from a Kansas City Star Editorial by Joel Mathis Good intentions can sometimes meet harsh realities. No one can doubt that then-Kansas Gov. Jeff Colyer, a Republican, had the very best of intentions in 2018 when he signed an executive order to “ban the box” in state hiring. The “box” in question? It was
- [Court rules Lyft isn’t required to do background checks](https://gp1.com/court-rules-lyft-isnt-required-to-do-background-checks/) - Earlier this summer, there was an interesting case before the California Court of Appeal. The question was does Lyft have an obligation to conduct background checks on passengers to protect its drivers?The case Shikha v. Lyft, Inc. was inspired by Abdu Al Shikha, a Lyft driver who was brutally attacked and stabbed by a passenger.
- [GroupOne webinar "Rechecks: Why They Matter" posted online!](https://gp1.com/groupone-webinar-rechecks-why-they-matter-posted-online/) - What’s the scoop on Rechecks? Well, we provided a few answers during GroupOne Background Screening’s webinar "Rechecks: Why They Matter," originally broadcast on August 21. The event has now been posted online. During the live discussion, we offered examples of different types of Rechecks to keep your company safe and secure. We will detailed real-life
- [My criminal record somehow vanished](https://gp1.com/my-criminal-record-somehow-vanished/) - Excerpted from an article in The Atlantic by Mark O’Brien Sixteen years ago, during my last semester of law school, I caused a drunk-driving crash that killed my girlfriend. I pleaded guilty to negligent manslaughter and faced up to a decade in prison, but thanks to my girlfriend’s family’s forgiveness and whatever unearned sympathy I
- [GroupOne webinar "Rechecks: Why They Matter" is tomorrow!](https://gp1.com/groupone-webinar-rechecks-why-they-matter-is-tomorrow/) - What’s the scoop on Rechecks? We'll provide the answer during GroupOne Background Screening’s webinar “Rechecks: Why They Matter” tomorrow on Wednesday, August 21 from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m., CT. Last chance to register! During this live discussion, we will provide examples of different types of Rechecks that will keep your company safe and secure. We
- [Avoid business disputes on Facebook – it could cost you!](https://gp1.com/avoid-business-disputes-on-facebook-it-could-cost-you/) - It’s always a good idea to avoid business disputes on Facebook, or any social media site for that matter. A good mantra, “Don’t post anything online that you wouldn’t want the Department of Labor to see.” In this interesting case, a Vermont employer posted grievances about a former worker, and they are now having to
- [GroupOne webinar "Rechecks: Why They Matter" in one week!](https://gp1.com/groupone-webinar-rechecks-why-they-matter-in-one-week/) - What’s the scoop on Rechecks? We'll provide the answer during GroupOne Background Screening’s webinar “Rechecks: Why They Matter” in one week on Wednesday, August 21 from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m., CT. During this live discussion, we will provide examples of different types of Rechecks that will keep your company safe and secure. We will also
- [Be careful when it comes to workplace language](https://gp1.com/be-careful-when-it-comes-to-workplace-language/) - There was a time when the term “Cat Woman” referred to a specific character in the Batman comic books or films. Not so much today, especially after it was revealed a certain politician stamped U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris with the term. Some critics believe the phrase serves as a reminder of the double standards
- [GroupOne webinar "Rechecks: Why They Matter" on Aug. 21!](https://gp1.com/groupone-webinar-rechecks-why-they-matter-on-aug-21-2/) - Yes dear client, rechecks do matter. And we'll tell you why during GroupOne Background Screening’s webinar “Rechecks: Why They Matter” in three weeks on Wednesday, August 21 from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m., CT. During this live discussion, we will provide examples of different types of Rechecks that will keep your company safe and secure. We
- [Senate Commerce Committee advances several bills on AI](https://gp1.com/senate-commerce-committee-advances-several-bills-on-ai/) - Excerpted from a FedScoop Blog by Rebecca Heilweil Amid concerns about U.S. competitiveness in artificial intelligence, the Senate Commerce, Science, and Technology Committee on July 31 advanced a bevy of AI-focused bipartisan bills, though some fault lines emerged that could signal growing tension between the parties on the issue. Sen. Maria Cantwell, D-Wash., who chairs
- [GroupOne participates in Gulf Coast Symposium](https://gp1.com/groupone-participates-in-gulf-coast-symposium/) - GroupOne Background Screening is making an appearance today at the annual Gulf Coast Symposium on HR Issues at the NGR Center in Houston. The two-day event will conclude tomorrow. Manning Booth #520 is our very own David Graves, GroupOne’s business sales representative. Drop by to pay him a visit. The Gulf Coast Symposium on HR
- [Worker fired after 2 positive drug tests: Was this OK?](https://gp1.com/worker-fired-after-2-positive-drug-tests-was-this-ok/) - Excerpted from an HR Morning Blog by Carol Warner Evolving cannabis legislation makes employee drug testing trickier than ever. But if an employee fails two drug tests in a row, it’s probably safe to move forward with termination, right? That’s likely what company leaders at Airgas USA were thinking when they fired a worker who tested
- [GroupOne event “Rechecks: Why They Matter” in three weeks!](https://gp1.com/groupone-event-rechecks-why-they-matter-in-three-weeks/) - Would you like to know why Rechecks of your employees matter? We’ll provide the answers during GroupOne Background Screening’s webinar “Rechecks: Why They Matter” in three weeks on Wednesday, August 21 from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m., CT. During this live discussion, we will provide examples of different types of Rechecks that will keep your company
- [Should your employment policies be translated?](https://gp1.com/should-your-employment-policies-be-translated/) - Excerpted from a Questel Blog by Danny Fink In today’s globalized economy, companies increasingly operate across borders, employing a diverse workforce that speaks multiple languages. This linguistic diversity presents both opportunities and challenges, particularly when it comes to ensuring all employees understand the company’s employment policies. Translating these policies is not just a matter of
- [Backlash as employer fails to hire medical marijuana user](https://gp1.com/backlash-as-employer-fails-to-hire-medical-marijuana-user/) - Excerpted from a Fisher Phillips Blog A telecom company allegedly violated New Jersey’s anti-discrimination law by refusing to hire a job applicant after he tested positive for THC as a result of medical marijuana use, according to the state’s Attorney General. The applicant said he was offered a job pending the drug test results
- [GroupOne webinar “Rechecks: Why They Matter” on Aug. 21!](https://gp1.com/groupone-webinar-rechecks-why-they-matter-on-aug-21/) - Just why do Rechecks of your employees matter? Find out the answer during GroupOne Background Screening’s webinar “Rechecks: Why They Matter” on Wednesday, August 21 from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m., CT. During this live discussion, we will provide examples of different types of Rechecks that will keep your company safe and secure. We will also
- [FTC outlines 5 don’ts for AI Chatbots](https://gp1.com/ftc-outlines-5-donts-for-ai-chatbots/) - Excerpted from a Fenwick Blog by Vejay Lalla, Kimberly Culp, Zach Harned and Kristen Rovai The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has issued a cautionary note to companies that employ artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots, signaling heightened scrutiny over their use. Through a series of blog posts in the past year, the FTC has delineated the boundaries
- [The man who said "no" to DEI training](https://gp1.com/the-man-who-said-no-to-dei-training/) - Excerpted from a Constangy Brooks Smith & Prophete LLP Blog by Robin Shea A man refused to take his employer's mandatory "unconscious bias" training, and he was fired. He sued the employer for retaliation, his lawsuit was dismissed, and this week an appeals court affirmed the dismissal. The plaintiff knew virtually nothing about the training, the
- [USDOT clarifies marijuana testing should remain intact](https://gp1.com/usdot-clarifies-marijuana-testing-should-remain-intact/) - Excerpted from an American Trucking Association Blog During a House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure hearing on June 27, U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg confirmed that his agency believes that the U.S. Department of Justice’s proposal to reschedule marijuana from a Schedule I to a Schedule III drug will not impact the transportation
- [Dollar Tree lawsuit over alleged credit report violations](https://gp1.com/dollar-tree-lawsuit-over-alleged-credit-report-violations/) - Excerpted from a ClassAction.org Blog by Kelsey McCroskey A proposed class action lawsuit alleges Dollar Tree has unlawfully failed to provide job applicants with an adequate opportunity to dispute or discuss inaccurate data in their background checks before taking adverse action against them based on the contents of the report. Specifically, the 12-page Dollar Tree
- [Need a CA background check? Court rules causing long waits](https://gp1.com/need-a-ca-background-check-court-rules-causing-long-waits/) - Excerpted from a Los Angeles Times article by Caroline Petrow-Cohen Significant delays in the processing of background checks are causing headaches across California, leaving applications for jobs and housing stuck in limbo while making it harder for employers and landlords to screen for criminal records. The situation stems from a state appellate court ruling more
- [Background check laws impacting employers effective July 1](https://gp1.com/background-check-laws-impacting-employers-effective-july-1/) - Excerpted from a Forbes article by Alonzo Martinez As of July 1, 2024, employers across the U.S. will face a series of new laws affecting employment practices, particularly in the areas of background checks and data privacy. These changes demand immediate attention and necessitate that employers update their policies to ensure compliance. Three new data
- [10 social media tips for employers and employees](https://gp1.com/10-social-media-tips-for-employers-and-employees/) - Excerpted from a Constangy Brooks Smith & Prophete LLP Blog by Robin Shea Did you know this past Sunday was "Social Media Day"? Neither did I. After all this time, social media continues to get employees and employers in trouble. Here are six tips for employees, followed by four tips for employers. Following these tips may
- [Louisiana teachers need background checks to be certified](https://gp1.com/louisiana-teachers-need-background-checks-to-be-certified/) - Excerpted from a Nola.com blog by Elyse Carmosino Louisiana educators will soon have to undergo a criminal background check before they can receive their teaching license in a move intended to make it more difficult for would-be teachers with prior convictions to slip through the cracks. Starting January 1, anyone seeking to obtain or renew
- [Can background checks show if your identity was stolen?](https://gp1.com/can-background-checks-show-if-your-identity-was-stolen/) - Excerpted from an AOL Blog by Pete Grieve Conducting a background check on yourself isn't always necessary if you're concerned about identity theft, but there are situations when it can be a good idea. Identity theft has been rampant since 2020. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has now received more than a million reports of
- [NIST launches new program to advance evaluation for AI](https://gp1.com/nist-launches-new-program-to-advance-evaluation-for-ai/) - Excerpted from an NIST Blog The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is launching a new testing, evaluation, validation and verification (TEVV) program intended to help improve understanding of artificial intelligence’s capabilities and impacts. Assessing Risks and Impacts of AI (ARIA) aims to help organizations and individuals determine whether a given AI technology will be
- [GroupOne Drug Testing – a powerful tool for your company!](https://gp1.com/groupone-drug-testing-a-powerful-tool-for-your-company/) - GroupOne’s drug testing is money in your company’s pocket.Employment drug testing is a powerful tool that provides far-reaching company benefits. Today, more than 65% of companies utilize drug testing programs. Here’s the advantages:Drug testing programs decrease absenteeism by 50%;Drug testing programs decrease workers’ compensation incidence rates by 50%;Drug testing programs increase productivity rates by 19%;Drug
- [Impact of Judicial Privacy Laws on background checks](https://gp1.com/impact-of-judicial-privacy-laws-on-background-checks/) - Excerpted from a Forbes article by Alonzo Martinez In response to rising violence and threats against public officials, state legislatures across the United States have enacted judicial privacy laws to protect the privacy and safety of these individuals. These laws aim to restrict access to personal information that could be used to target public officials
- [There’s more to GroupOne than background screening](https://gp1.com/theres-more-to-groupone-than-background-screening/) - We are regularly surprised by the shock displayed by our clients when they discover the many services GroupOne Background Screening has to offer. Yes, we have a dedicated team of experts conducting background checks on a daily basis. But we do so much more. As we’ve said over the years, we are a convenient “one-stop
- [CA woman makes shocking discovery after background check](https://gp1.com/ca-woman-makes-shocking-discovery-after-background-check/) - In the imprecise age of social media, sometimes users go by a handle or simply their first name. In this interesting case, the TikTok user is a California woman named Samantha. Her recent post from last week detailed how a normal background check can reveal shocking discoveries on criminal records. Samantha’s company had recently merged
- [U.S. proposes reclassifying marijuana as low-risk drug](https://gp1.com/u-s-proposes-reclassifying-marijuana-as-low-risk-drug/) - The administration of President Joe Biden formally proposed on May 16 to reclassify marijuana as a “less dangerous drug,” a first-time shift that would bring federal policy in line with what is considered public opinion. In a video statement, Biden said, "No one should be in jail merely for using or possessing marijuana. Far too
- [Aging employee fired, awarded $78,000 in EEOC settlement](https://gp1.com/aging-employee-fired-awarded-78000-in-eeoc-settlement/) - They say age is a state of mind, and for one employee, it was a bit more than that. We ran across an interesting case where an employee was terminated following hospitalization. Employees returning to work after an illness can always present distinctive legal issues, particularly if an employer is considering firing the employee following
- [How many churches use background checks?](https://gp1.com/how-many-churches-use-background-checks/) - Excerpted from a Baptist Standard article by Bob Smietana About 10 years ago, when Pennsylvania passed a law requiring a background check for anyone who worked with children, Megan Benninger volunteered to help her church comply. At the time, Benninger and her husband were members of a small Southern Baptist church, where the nursery was
- [Cheating on drug tests reaches 30-year high](https://gp1.com/cheating-on-drug-tests-reaches-30-year-high/) - Excerpted from a Yahoo Finance Post by Vandana Singh Cheating on drug tests among American workers has surged to its highest level in over 30 years, according to a lab report from Quest Diagnostics Inc. The lab reported that approximately 31,000 out of 5.5 million drug tests showed signs of tampering in 2023. Dr. Suhash Harwani,
- [A Clean Slate—to What Effect?](https://gp1.com/a-clean-slate-to-what-effect/) - Excerpted from a City Journal Blog by Robert VerBruggen In recent years, legislators and advocates have repeatedly sought to make people with criminal records more employable, including by wiping out the records themselves. A new academic working paper, written by Rutgers economist Amanda Y. Agan and several coauthors and released through the National Bureau of Economic
- [Deepfake of Baltimore principal raises serious HR issues](https://gp1.com/deepfake-of-baltimore-principal-raises-serious-hr-issues/) - Excerpted from a Jackson Lewis PC Blog by Joseph J. Lazzarotti As reported by CNN, a high school principal in Pikesville, Maryland, found his life and career turned upside down when in January a recording suggesting the principal made racially insensitive and antisemitic remarks went viral. The school faced a flood of calls from concerned persons,
- [What if a candidate disputes a background check?](https://gp1.com/what-if-a-candidate-disputes-a-background-check/) - As we tell our clients at GroupOne Background Screening, a background check is a basic part of the hiring process. Simply put, we acquire the candidate’s info and provide the results. We understand hiring decisions are influenced by these results. Oftentimes, a candidate will dispute the information. What happens then and what are your responsibilities?
- [Can employer background checks catch masked protestors?](https://gp1.com/can-employer-background-checks-catch-masked-protestors/) - Here at GroupOne Background Screening, we’re not too hip to conspiracy theories. And we most certainly are not going to take sides with the recent protests taking place on U.S. college campuses. But we could not help but notice comments by Kevin O’Leary during a television interview last week. He stated artificial intelligence (AI), when
- [When are Criminal Background Checks permitted?](https://gp1.com/when-are-criminal-background-checks-permitted/) - Excerpted from a SHRM Blog by Allen Smith J.D. Criminal background checks should be conducted after a job offer and feature an individualized assessment of any criminal justice record, a U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) lawsuit indicates. Such screening is more necessary and relevant for some positions than others. Lawsuit’s Allegations In EEOC v. Sheetz,
- [Are states about to make a big mistake on AI?](https://gp1.com/are-states-about-to-make-a-big-mistake-on-ai/) - Excerpted from a Politico Editorial by Grace Gedye and Matt Scherer If you’ve looked for a job recently, AI may well have a hidden hand in the process. An AI recruiter might have scored your LinkedIn profile or resume. HR professionals might have used a different AI app to scrape your social media profiles and spit out scores for your
- [5 takeaways for screening candidates with criminal history](https://gp1.com/5-takeaways-for-screening-candidates-with-criminal-history/) - Excerpted from a Phelps Dunbar LLP Blog by Michael E. Turner The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission’s (EEOC) recent lawsuit against a convenience store operator over its policy against hiring job applicants with a criminal background is a reminder to all employers to focus on this initial hiring issue. According to the EEOC, it is a
- [Feds consider adding fentanyl to workplace drug testing](https://gp1.com/feds-consider-adding-fentanyl-to-workplace-drug-testing/) - Excerpted from a Marijuana Moment story by Ben Adlin Proposed changes to federal workforce drug testing guidelines that are currently being reviewed by officials would remove screening for MDMA—which has only rarely appeared in workers’ urine samples during recent years—and add testing for fentanyl, a substance that’s become far more widespread in unregulated drug markets
- [States neglecting background checks for childcare workers](https://gp1.com/states-neglecting-background-checks-for-childcare-workers/) - Excerpted from a Mississippi Today story by Chabell Carrazana More than a decade ago, Celia Sims sat in a room with parents whose precious children had died while at day care. Most had been neglected by their caregivers. Some died from injuries, others in their sleep. Most of the children attended licensed facilities, and at
- [Convenience chain charged with background check bias](https://gp1.com/convenience-chain-charged-with-background-check-bias/) - Excerpted from The Philadelphia Inquirer story by Lizzy McLellan Ravitch Sheetz, a Pennsylvania-founded convenience store chain, has been charged by the federal government of using a racially discriminatory hiring practice. The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) filed a lawsuit on April 17, alleging that Sheetz, through its criminal background screening process, denied employment to
- ["Drug Screening 2024" webinar has been posted online](https://gp1.com/drug-screening-2024-webinar-has-been-posted-online/) - What are some of the issues for drug screening in 2024? And should we still test for marijuana?! These questions and more were answered during GroupOne Background Screening’s webinar “DRUG SCREENING 2024: Should we still test for marijuana? and other employer questions” originally broadcast on April 11. The event has now been posted online This complimentary educational event
- [FCRA preempts state defamation claim over background check](https://gp1.com/fcra-preempts-state-defamation-claim-over-background-check/) - Excerpted from an Epstein Becker Green Blog by Adam S. Forman, Alexander J. Franchilli and Janae Barrett Recently, the Sixth Circuit found that the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) preempted a former employee’s state law defamation claim against his former employer. While the FCRA can impose burdensome requirements on the entities that fall within its
- ["Drug Screening 2024" webinar this Thursday!](https://gp1.com/drug-screening-2024-webinar-this-thursday/) - Are you confused about the evolving laws in drug screening! And should we still test for marijuana?! These questions and more will be answered during GroupOne Background Screening’s webinar “DRUG SCREENING 2024: Should we still test for marijuana? and other employer questions” in just two days on Thursday, April 11 from 2:00-3:00 p.m., CT. Register today! In the changing landscape
- ["Drug Screening 2024" webinar in one week!](https://gp1.com/drug-screening-2024-webinar-in-one-week/) - Here's a great opportunity to ask the experts about drug screening issues! And should we still test for marijuana?! These questions and more will be answered during GroupOne Background Screening’s webinar “DRUG SCREENING 2024: Should we still test for marijuana? and other employer questions” in just one week on Thursday, April 11 from 2:00-3:00 p.m., CT. Register today! In the
- [Florida legislation increases healthcare background checks](https://gp1.com/florida-legislation-increases-healthcare-background-checks/) - Excerpted from a Holland and Knight Blog by Mia L. McKown and Eddie Williams, III House Bill 975, if signed by Gov. Ron DeSantis, will have a significant impact on the Florida criminal background screening requirements for healthcare professionals and facilities. Currently, only certain healthcare professionals are required to undergo background screening as a requirement
- [Transparency in Politics – candidate background checks](https://gp1.com/transparency-in-politics-candidate-background-checks/) - You would think every person running for office would have a background check, right? Well, not so fast there buckaroo. According to Jody Baden, the founder of Transparency in Politics, “You have to have a background check to work for the governor but not to be the governor.” Baden founded Transparency in Politics in 2022
- [Your drug screening questions to be answered in two weeks!](https://gp1.com/your-drug-screening-questions-to-be-answered-in-two-weeks/) - What are some of the issues for drug screening in 2024? And should we still test for marijuana?! These questions and more will be answered during GroupOne Background Screening’s webinar “DRUG SCREENING 2024: Should we still test for marijuana? and other employer questions” in just two weeks on Thursday, April 11 from 2:00-3:00 p.m., CT. In the ever-changing landscape of
- [Report details companies with disability policies](https://gp1.com/report-details-companies-with-disability-policies/) - Excerpted from a Hall Benefits Law Blog According to a 2023 Accenture report, organizations implementing disability-inclusive policies and practices often have better financial performance than similar organizations. Examples of disability-inclusive practices include using videos with captions and seeking regular input on improvements from employees with disabilities. The report, which expanded and built upon a similar report
- [AI lie detector test creates class action lawsuit](https://gp1.com/ai-lie-detector-test-creates-class-action-lawsuit/) - Are lie detector tests legal during job interviews? According to the Employee Polygraph Protection Act (EPPA) enacted in 1988, it is prohibited for most private employers to use lie detector tests, either for pre-employment screening or during employment. Of course, subject to restrictions, the Act does permit lie detector tests to be used for applicants
- [Court case details simple FCRA violation could be costly](https://gp1.com/court-case-details-simple-fcra-violation-can-be-costly/) - As we often say at GroupOne Background Screening, “Know the rules, especially when it involves Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA).” Due diligence is always important. We ran across a recent case that showcases some agonizingly small mistakes involving FCRA forms. In this example, the mistake will cost the company money. According to the complaint Kenn v.
- [What drugs should you test for? Find out on April 11!](https://gp1.com/what-drugs-should-you-test-for-find-out-on-april-11/) - What drugs should you test for in 2024? And should we still test for marijuana?! These questions and more will be answered during GroupOne Background Screening’s webinar “DRUG SCREENING 2024: Should we still test for marijuana? and other employer questions” on Thursday, April 11 from 2:00-3:00 p.m., CT. In the ever-changing landscape of HR, the practice of preemployment drug screening
- [Background screening challenges in the City of Angels](https://gp1.com/background-screening-challenges-in-the-city-of-angels/) - As “Dragnet” police officer Joe Friday used to say, “Just the facts ma’am.” Well, not so much in the City of Angels. Earlier this month, the Superior Court of Los Angeles County announced changes to its criminal name searches causing the screening of applicants from the area to be difficult. The Superior Court will no longer allow
- [Restrictions on employer access to personal social media](https://gp1.com/restrictions-on-employer-access-to-personal-social-media/) - In a “Facebook-friendly” move earlier this month, New York Governor Kathy Hochul signed a bill into law that prohibits employers from accessing employees’ or job applicants’ personal social media accounts. The law went into effect March 12. Under the new legislation, “personal accounts” are defined as an electronic account or profile “where users create, share,
- [Oregon passes bill to revert drug decriminalization](https://gp1.com/oregon-passes-bill-to-revert-drug-decriminalization/) - Excerpted from a Forbes article by Alonzo Martinez In response to the escalating overdose crisis, Oregon legislators have approved House Bill 4002, which reverts the state's pioneering drug decriminalization efforts, marking a significant shift in drug possession laws. The bill, which passed with a 21-8 vote in the Senate and 51-7 in the House, is now awaiting the
- [GroupOne’s “Drug Screening 2024” webinar on April 11!](https://gp1.com/groupones-drug-screening-2024-webinar-on-april-11/) - What’s legal? What’s not? And should we still test for marijuana?! These questions and more will be answered during GroupOne Background Screening’s webinar “DRUG SCREENING 2024: Should we still test for marijuana? and other employer questions” on Thursday, April 11 from 2:00-3:00 p.m., CT. In the ever-changing landscape of HR, the practice of preemployment drug
- [Justice Department enacts order addressing data security](https://gp1.com/justice-department-enacts-order-addressing-data-security/) - On Feb. 28, President Joe Biden issued what has been called “a groundbreaking Executive Order (EO)” addressing national security threats posed by countries attempting to access Americans’ personal and government data. Titled “Preventing Access to Americans’ Bulk Sensitive Personal Data and U.S. Government-Related Data by Countries of Concern,” the EO is the first of its
- [Hawaii close to legalizing marijuana, floor vote this week](https://gp1.com/hawaii-close-to-legalizing-marijuana-floor-vote-this-week/) - Excerpted from a Marijuana Moment Blog by Ben Adlin A pair of Senate committees in Hawaii has advanced a bill that would legalize marijuana in the state, adopting a number of amendments to the underlying proposal before sending it to the chamber floor where a vote is expected next week. Last year the Senate passed a
- [Is anxiety a disability?](https://gp1.com/is-anxiety-a-disability/) - “Is anxiety a disability?” An interesting question though without a clear answer. During these apprehensive times with angry politics and international war, countless individuals suffer from anxiety. In 2019, research by the World Health Organization (WHO) noted 301 million people in the world had anxiety disorders, and this was before the outbreak of COVID-19. Thus,
- [Lawmakers consider oral test as drug screen alternative](https://gp1.com/lawmakers-consider-oral-test-as-drug-screen-alternative/) - Excerpted from a Minnesota House of Representatives Blog by Brian Basham A quick swab or spit could lead to a win-win for employers and potential employees. Employers that now have a written drug and alcohol testing policy in place are required to test prospective employees using a certified testing laboratory. However, that has led to
- [Texas judge puts brakes on Pregnant Workers Fairness Act](https://gp1.com/texas-judge-puts-brakes-on-pregnant-workers-fairness-act/) - Excerpted from a Phelps Dunbar LLP Blog by Maritza Sanchez A federal judge in Texas placed constraints on the enforcement of the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA) in the state on Feb. 27, citing a violation of the U.S. Constitution's quorum requirements. The PWFA was passed by Congress in late 2022, as part of the
- [Dating app penalized for lack of screening disclosure](https://gp1.com/dating-app-penalized-for-lack-of-screening-disclosure/) - It’s a bumble, or rather Bumble, Inc., a Texas-based internet dating service provider, will have to pay a hefty $315,000 to settle allegations it violated New Jersey’s consumer protection and internet safety laws by failing to disclose its criminal background screening policies to New Jersey users. According to New Jersey Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin,
- [Workplace violence policies in healthcare settings](https://gp1.com/workplace-violence-policies-in-healthcare-settings/) - Excerpted from an Akerman LLP Blog by Emily Ayvazian and Danielle Gordet Hospitals, urgent care clinics, doctors’ offices — these are the places we go when we are sick and want to get better. Doctors, nurses, and other healthcare workers are the people who treat us, help us recover, and even save our lives in
- [Preferred pronouns and the aging workforce](https://gp1.com/preferred-pronouns-and-the-aging-workforce/) - Excerpted from a Constangy Brooks Smith & Prophete LLP Blog by Robin Shea What takes priority? There was a social media storm this week after a large non-profit organization terminated a volunteer after the volunteer questioned the point of having preferred pronouns in signature blocks. The woman was 90 years old and had been a
- [Dark side of the room: Drawbacks of fully-remote work](https://gp1.com/dark-side-of-the-room-drawbacks-of-fully-remote-work/) - Excerpted from a Mintz Blog With many companies cutting back on pandemic-era remote work policies, opting for a hybrid model, or even requiring employees to be physically present five days per week, some employers have found it difficult to entice employees to return and many employees have been reluctant to do so. While this may not
- [Love Contracts: How does Cupid navigate office romance?](https://gp1.com/love-contracts-how-does-cupid-navigate-office-romance/) - Excerpted from a Lehr Middlebrooks Vreeland & Thompson P.C. Blog by McKenzie Meade Workplace romances can emerge between colleagues in the same department, between managers and subordinates, between employees with no commonality other than their lunch hour, and between an employee and an important third party (a customer contact, a vendor, etc.). Ideally, employers should
- [HR Surveys are here - Participation continues thru February!](https://gp1.com/hr-surveys-are-here-participation-continues-through-february/) - February is survey time at GroupOne Background Screening, with three annual HR surveys conducted from February 1-29. The annual Pay Practices Survey and Benefit Practices Survey provide valuable benchmarking data from across Texas. Participation is free and reports are available for $225 a survey. If you choose not to participate in the surveys, you may
- [Be careful before acting on drug test results](https://gp1.com/be-careful-before-acting-on-drug-test-results/) - Excerpted from a Bloomberg Law article by Khorri Atkinson A recent federal appeals court ruling against Airgas USA LLC related to a disabled worker’s disputed positive drug test result sends a warning to companies about exercising due diligence before taking adverse employment actions, attorneys say. The US Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit’s Jan. 31
- [Podcast – State laws on screening and federal preemption](https://gp1.com/podcast-state-laws-on-screening-and-federal-preemption/) - Excerpted from a Troutman Pepper Blog Please join Troutman Pepper Partner Dave Gettings and colleagues Tim St. George and Cindy Hanson for a highly informative discussion on federal preemption as it relates to state laws and the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). This episode provides listeners with an overview of important state and local legislation
- [When one of your employees fails to report to work…](https://gp1.com/when-one-of-your-employees-fails-to-report-to-work/) - Excerpted from a Shawe Rosenthal LLP Blog by Fiona W. Ong The media has been abuzz with the story of Secretary Lloyd Austin’s recent medical issues – and particularly the fact the White House, as well as the Deputy Defense Secretary Kathleen Hicks were not notified until after Secretary Austin had been in the hospital
- [HR Surveys are here! Participation to begin next week](https://gp1.com/hr-surveys-are-here-participation-to-begin-next-week/) - February is survey time at GroupOne Background Screening, with three annual HR surveys conducted from February 1-29. The annual Pay Practices Survey and Benefit Practices Survey provide valuable benchmarking data from across Texas. Participation is free and reports are available for $225 a survey. If you choose not to participate in the surveys, you may
- [Can employers do that? The limits of free speech](https://gp1.com/can-employers-do-that-the-limits-of-free-speech/) - Excerpted from a FordHarrison LLP Blog by Elizabeth M. Smith and Johanna G. Zelman Public debate about the Israel-Hamas war demonstrates that Americans have strong, and often divergent, views on important social and political issues. Believing their right to express those views is firmly grounded in the First Amendment, celebrities and high-profile figures are freely
- [CFPB slams “old information” in background checks](https://gp1.com/cfpb-slams-old-information-in-background-checks/) - The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) sent out a message this week warning credit reporting companies about including outdated information, particularly people’s criminal records, when creating background check reports. The CFPB issued the advisory opinions on Thursday, specifically eyeing the credit reporting industry dominated by Experian Plc, Equifax Inc., and TransUnion. The first message was a reminder to consumer
- [Care facilities fined for lack of background checks](https://gp1.com/care-facilities-fined-for-lack-of-background-checks/) - Multiple care facilities in Iowa were recently slapped with a fine of $500 for allegedly violating state regulations related to the abuse of residents and a lack of background checks on employees, according to a January 3 story in the Iowa Capital Dispatch. The alleged violations included failing to complete a background check before employees
- [Time limit - how far back do background checks go?](https://gp1.com/time-limit-how-far-back-do-background-checks-go/) - Here at GroupOne Background Screening, we are often asked, “How far back do background checks go?” Sometimes we’ll answer, “They go all the way back!” We are kidding, of course. We use background checks to confirm and verify the information on an applicant’s résumé, such as education credentials and work history. But we still haven’t
- [Your employee has dementia: what to do?](https://gp1.com/your-employee-has-dementia-what-to-do/) - Excerpted from a Constangy Brooks Smith & Prophete LLP Blog by Robin Shea Expect to see more of this. A judge in Connecticut recently dismissed a lawsuit filed by a 26-year employee who developed early-onset Alzheimer's disease. According to the court's opinion, the employee had performed well for many years but then took a sudden downturn that
- [New bill bans convictions as grounds to deny barber license](https://gp1.com/new-bill-bans-convictions-as-grounds-to-deny-barber-license/) - Excerpted from a Florida Politics Blog by Anne Geggis A Senate panel has approved a bill that would allow an aspiring barber or cosmetologist to be cut loose from a past, nonviolent criminal conviction. Democratic Sen. Linda Stewart of Orlando has introduced legislation (SB 42) that would mean a past nonviolent criminal conviction three years or older
- [The concerns of substance use at holiday workplace parties](https://gp1.com/the-concerns-of-substance-use-at-holiday-workplace-parties/) - Excerpted from a Littler Mendelson PC Blog by Lauren M. Bridenbaugh I’m in charge of organizing our holiday party this year. To keep things civil, we’re limiting alcohol and reminding employees that although our state has legalized the recreational use of marijuana, there is to be no pot at the potluck. But a colleague just
- [VA accidently hires workers with drug convictions](https://gp1.com/va-accidently-hires-workers-with-drug-convictions/) - Excerpted from a Stars and Stripes article by Linda F. Hersey A breakdown in background checks has enabled applicants with criminal drug histories to gain jobs as health care workers with the Veterans Health Administration, federal auditors told lawmakers during a House hearing this week. Investigations since 2017 by the Inspector General’s Office for the
- [Employers favor automation in hiring — except these stages](https://gp1.com/employers-favor-automation-in-hiring-except-these-stages/) - Excerpted from an Indeed story by Kristy Threlkeld Artificial intelligence (AI) and automation technology are both used to help businesses operate more efficiently. Recruiters and other human resources (HR) decision-makers are overwhelmingly optimistic about the role of AI in the future of hiring. But what do they think about the increasing adoption of automation, which includes
- [Texas bans COVID-19 vaccine mandates](https://gp1.com/texas-bans-covid-19-vaccine-mandates/) - Excerpted from a Prokauer Rose LLP Blog by Evandro Gigante, Laura Fant and Hannah Morris Texas Governor Greg Abbott has signed into law SB 7, which bans private employers of any size from imposing or enforcing COVID-19 vaccine mandates as a condition of employment. The law will take effect on February 6, 2024. Under the law,
- [“Hair Drug Test” lawsuit leads to $2.6 million settlement](https://gp1.com/hair-drug-test-lawsuit-leads-to-2-6-million-settlement/) - In a November 16 press release, it was announced the City of Boston paid $2.6 million to settle a years-long federal discrimination lawsuit alleging that a “hair test” used to identify drug use on its police force was discriminatory and scientifically flawed. Boston eliminated the test in 2021 as part of its Movement To End Racism and
- [5 things that could get you accused of sex harassment](https://gp1.com/5-things-that-could-get-you-accused-of-sex-harassment/) - Excerpted from a Constangy Brooks Smith & Prophete LLP Blog by Robin Shea Even if you didn't do it. The recent proposed Enforcement Guidance on Harassment in the Workplace published by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission has some good recommendations for harassment training topics. One recommendation is to train employees to avoid "borderline" behavior that may
- [Background check didn't catch coach's sexual assault record](https://gp1.com/background-check-didnt-catch-coachs-sexual-assault-record/) - Excerpted from a StarTribune article by Briana Bierschbach and Mara Klecker It took Annalie Peterson and a friend a couple of dollars and a few minutes on a background check website to find what her old high school apparently had not. Peterson's former volleyball coach had a criminal sexual conduct conviction in Wisconsin. Peterson was
- [Potential biases in background screening](https://gp1.com/potential-biases-in-background-screening/) - Do biases exist in background screening or job interviews? You bet. Some biases, while not necessarily intentional, are inherent in both processes. We hear about biases at GroupOne Background Screening quite often. The reports we provide to our clients are factual and accurate, but can they still paint the wrong picture? We’ll tread softly here,
- [Can an employer fire me for my speech outside work?](https://gp1.com/can-an-employer-fire-me-for-my-speech-outside-work/) - Excerpted from a Levy Employment Law LLC Blog by Tracey I. Levy Absolutely yes – depending on the circumstances. While we have grown up with the notion that free speech is sacrosanct in this country, the First Amendment actually only prohibits the government from restricting individuals’ speech. The restriction on censorship does not extend to
- [Background checks – the cans and cannots](https://gp1.com/background-checks-the-cans-and-cannots/) - It's never a bad idea to know the rules, especially if there's a possibility of hefty legal fines should you forget them. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission laws govern background checks. If the employer plans to contract with a third-party background reporting company such as GroupOne Background Screening to do the check, then they must obtain
- [President Biden signs new order on AI usage](https://gp1.com/president-biden-signs-new-order-on-ai-usage/) - If you haven’t heard, on October 30 President Joe Biden signed an Executive Order providing guidance for employers on the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the workplace. The Order establishes industry standards for AI security and safety. Rolling out at more than 100 pages, the highly detailed Order is attempting to set parameters for AI
- [Background checks proposed for all Kansas school employees](https://gp1.com/background-checks-proposed-for-all-kansas-school-employees/) - Excerpted from a Kansas Reflector article by Tim Carpenter Attorney General Kris Kobach recommended Wednesday passage of a law requiring all Kansas public school district employees undergo fingerprint-based criminal background investigation on a five-year cycle and proposed comparable checks be mandated for contractors delivering Medicaid services to students. The state’s Medicaid inspector general, who has
- [Finding work remains a struggle with a criminal record](https://gp1.com/finding-work-remains-a-struggle-with-a-criminal-record/) - Excerpted from an NBC News Story by Shannon Pettypiece For nearly three years, Tonya Jones went on one job interview after another, only to be passed over for positions and have offers rescinded when background checks revealed a misdemeanor food stamp fraud conviction on her record. She was removed as a driver for Lyft when
- [Background check company’s faulty report leads to trial](https://gp1.com/background-check-companys-faulty-report-leads-to-trial/) - We ran across an interesting case in San Diego this week. Specifically, a background screening company will face trial over claims it produced an inaccurate and outdated report that led to a woman being fired. In 2014, a woman applied for a job at Alere, a healthcare diagnostics company near San Diego. To complete her
- [EEOC proposes updated Workplace Harassment guidance](https://gp1.com/eeoc-proposes-updated-workplace-harassment-guidance/) - Excerpted from a Duane Morris LLP Blog by Jonathan A. Segal On October 2, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission proposed updated Enforcement Guidance on Harassment in the Workplace. Employers have until November 2, to submit comments in response. While the EEOC may make some clarifications in response to the public comments, it is not likely that they will
- [GroupOne webinar “10 Mistakes to Avoid” posted online](https://gp1.com/groupone-webinar-10-mistakes-to-avoid-posted-online/) - What to do? What not to do? No worries, GroupOne Background Screening’s webinar “10 Mistakes to Avoid in Background Screening” originally broadcast on October 5 has now been posted online. This educational event was hosted by David Graves, HR guru and sales rep, and Chris Wilson, communications director. When screening candidates, a background check is your greatest
- [Are you prepared? “10 Mistakes to Avoid” in two days!](https://gp1.com/are-you-prepared-10-mistakes-to-avoid-in-two-days/) - Are you prepared? What to do? What not to do? GroupOne Background Screening’s webinar series will continue Thursday, October 5 with “10 Mistakes to Avoid in Background Screening” from 1:00-2:00 p.m., CT. You don’t want to miss this educational event with speakers David Graves, HR guru and sales rep, and Chris Wilson, communications director. When screening candidates, a background
- [Faulty background checks violating privacy and lives](https://gp1.com/faulty-background-checks-violating-privacy-and-lives/) - Excerpted from an article in The Hill by Sarah Esther Lageson and Robert Stewart Criminal-record screening has become a pillar of life in the digital age. Employers, landlords and consumers have dozens of background-check companies to choose from to search for information about an individual. In addition to criminal history, many of these background reports
- [Avoid the land mines – “10 Mistakes to Avoid” in one week!](https://gp1.com/avoid-the-land-mines-10-mistakes-to-avoid-in-one-week/) - How can you avoid the pitfalls? What to do? What not to do? GroupOne Background Screening’s webinar series will continue Thursday, October 5 with “10 Mistakes to Avoid in Background Screening” from 1:00-2:00 p.m., CT. You don’t want to miss this educational event with speakers David Graves, HR guru and sales rep, and Chris Wilson, communications director. When screening
- [New Michigan rules halt pre-employment marijuana tests](https://gp1.com/new-michigan-rules-halt-pre-employment-marijuana-tests/) - Excerpted from a NORML Blog New statewide rules take effect this week ending the practice of pre-employment marijuana screening for most state workers in Michigan. Under the new policy, which takes effect on Sunday, October 1, most public employees will no longer be required to undergo pre-employment marijuana testing. Exceptions to the new rules will
- [Watch your step – “10 Mistakes to Avoid” on Oct. 5!](https://gp1.com/watch-your-step-10-mistakes-to-avoid-on-oct-5/) - What to do? What not to do? How can you avoid the booby traps? GroupOne Background Screening’s webinar series will continue Thursday, October 5 with “10 Mistakes to Avoid in Background Screening” from 1:00-2:00 p.m., CT. You don’t want to miss this educational event with speakers David Graves, HR guru and sales rep, and Chris Wilson, communications director. When screening
- [Texas school is testing the CROWN Act law](https://gp1.com/texas-school-is-testing-the-crown-act-law/) - Excerpted from a Texas Tribune article by Miranda Dunlap Less than one month after Texas’ CROWN Act went into effect, the same school district that largely prompted the law’s creation is delivering its first major test. Darryl George, a junior at Barbers Hill High School in Chambers County, has garnered national media attention after he served more
- [Our amazing Verification System – WebVerify!](https://gp1.com/our-amazing-verification-system-webverify/) - It’s easier, it’s faster, it’s confidential, it’s secure and it saves time. WebVerify is GroupOne’s web-based system providing instantaneous employment and salary history on current and previous employees in place of those numerous phone calls to your HR team. This automated service conveniently provides an alternative for your staff having to respond to verification requests from
- [EEOC report focused on hiring workers with arrest history](https://gp1.com/eeoc-report-focused-on-hiring-workers-with-arrest-history/) - Excerpted from a U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission press release The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) last week released two companion reports examining the federal employment of workers with arrest or conviction records. The EEOC developed these reports in support of President Biden’s Executive Order 14035, which calls for the expansion of federal employment opportunities for
- [Avoid the pitfalls - “10 Mistakes to Avoid” on Oct. 5!](https://gp1.com/avoid-the-pitfalls-10-mistakes-to-avoid-on-oct-5/) - What not to do? What to do? How can you avoid the pitfalls? GroupOne Background Screening’s webinar series will continue Thursday, October 5 with “10 Mistakes to Avoid in Background Screening” from 1:00-2:00 p.m., CT. You don’t want to miss this educational event with speakers David Graves, HR guru and sales rep, and Chris Wilson, communications director. When screening candidates,
- [FTC lawsuit insists on FCRA compliance](https://gp1.com/ftc-lawsuit-insists-on-fcra-compliance/) - Excerpted from a Federal Trade Commission Blog by Seena Gressin Advertising keywords are the carnival barkers of the internet. Their job is to shout, “Me, me, me, me, me!” to people searching online for a product or service. If successful, they’ll get prospective customers to click on the ad or website of whoever paid their
- [Bring your Pet-to-Work Policies - The Do’s, the Don’ts](https://gp1.com/bring-your-pet-to-work-policies-the-dos-the-donts/) - Excerpted from a SpringLaw Blog by Lindsay Koruna If you’ve ever explored SpringLaw’s bios, it’s no secret we are huge pet lovers! And, being a virtual law firm, we are lucky enough to work with our furry friends daily. For workplaces that are in-office or hybrid, we have seen various workplaces try to replicate this
- [“10 Mistakes to Avoid in Background Screening” on Oct. 5!](https://gp1.com/10-mistakes-to-avoid-in-background-screening-on-oct-5/) - GroupOne Background Screening’s webinar series will continue Thursday, October 5 with “10 Mistakes to Avoid in Background Screening” from 1:00-2:00 p.m., CT. You don’t want to miss this educational event with speakers David Graves, HR guru and sales rep, and Chris Wilson, communications director. What not to do? What to do? When screening candidates, a background check is your greatest
- [Uber and Lyft playing chicken with lawmakers](https://gp1.com/uber-and-lyft-playing-chicken-with-lawmakers/) - Excerpted from a Fast Company article by Wilfred Chan Earlier this month, the Minneapolis city council passed a bill designed to make Minneapolis Uber drivers’ lives less precarious. Called Fair Drives Safe Rides, it would’ve created minimum pay rates for app-based rideshare workers and protected them from arbitrary termination. It would’ve also given drivers and passengers receipts
- [The Pros and Cons of Workplace Drug Testing](https://gp1.com/the-pros-and-cons-of-workplace-drug-testing/) - To test or not to test? It's an important question. It’s also important to provide a safe work environment and ensure your employees are productive. And here’s another question. Is maintaining a drug-testing program worth the hassle? The answer usually depends on the workplace.State laws are always key, and they vary widely. But you also
- [Texas decimates local Fair Chance Hiring laws](https://gp1.com/texas-decimates-local-fair-chance-hiring-laws/) - Excerpted from a Forbes Article by Alonzo Martinez In the intricate landscape of employment law, the Lone Star State has recently taken a bold step by preempting local laws and ordinances that surpass or conflict with state laws, such as Austin’s Fair Chance Hiring Ordinance, or “ban the box” law. This move carries significant implications for
- [Artificial Intelligence — Policy questions to ask](https://gp1.com/artificial-intelligence-policy-questions-to-ask/) - Excerpted from a Troutman Pepper Blog by Jason Lichter, Alison Grounds, Tracey Diamond, Ahsley Hager, Kim Phan and James Koenig Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) has infiltrated every aspect of corporate America, and organizations’ legal, compliance, and human resources departments are understandably struggling to keep pace. Forward-thinking companies are beginning to implement policies governing the use
- [GroupOne’s WebVerify – An Amazing Employment and Salary Verification System!](https://gp1.com/groupones-webverify-an-amazing-employment-and-salary-verification-system/) - WebVerify is GroupOne’s web-based system providing instantaneous employment and salary history on current and previous employees in place of those numerous phone calls to your HR team. This automated service conveniently provides an alternative for your staff having to respond to verification requests from mortgage lenders or companies wanting to verify the employment of current and previous staff members.
- [Does “everything” come up in a background check?](https://gp1.com/does-everything-come-up-in-a-background-check/) - When we’re asked what comes up in a background check, our standard answer here at GroupOne is, “Everything!” Of course, we then follow that statement with a laugh. Granted, not “everything” comes up in a background check, but in this day and age, there are few secrets. Here’s a standard guide to understand what can
- [Needing younger workers, federal officials relax rules on past drug use](https://gp1.com/needing-younger-workers-federal-officials-relax-rules-on-past-drug-use/) - Excerpted from The New York Times article by Ernesto Londoño Not long ago, urinating in a cup for a drug test was a widely accepted, if annoying, requirement to start a new job. The legalization of marijuana in more and more states in recent years upended that, prompting many employers to shelve hiring rules from
- [Requests for remote work accommodations require “individualized assessments”](https://gp1.com/requests-for-remote-work-accommodations-require-individualized-assessments/) - Excerpted from a Troutman Pepper Blog by Christopher Moran, Angelo Stio, III and Brian Ellixson As more employers are requiring their employees to return to the workplace, a recent decision from the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, Oross v. Kutztown University, suggests that employers should reconsider any policy that would categorically deny employee
- [Is your hiring process ready for global talent?](https://gp1.com/is-your-hiring-process-ready-for-global-talent/) - Excerpted from a Benefits Pro Blog by Joy Henry Over the past few years, the scope of global talent acquisition has expanded across industries, specifically gaining traction in financial and professional services, retail, technology, and staffing. With the rise of remote work and the globalization of job markets, companies are now in a race to
- [GroupOne webinar “Tips for Fees Management” has been posted online](https://gp1.com/groupone-webinar-tips-for-fees-management-has-been-posted-online/) - GroupOne Background Screening’s webinar “Tips for Fees Management When Background Screening” originally broadcast on July 27, 2023, has been posted online. The educational event included expert speakers David Graves, HR guru and sales rep; Danny Davila, director of FCRA Regulatory Risk; and Steve Fischer, business operations specialist. This complimentary webinar detailed helpful tips to allow your company
- [Can an employer require a medical examination before hiring?](https://gp1.com/can-an-employer-require-a-medical-examination-before-hiring/) - Simply put, it’s a bad idea. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) prohibits employers from conducting medical examinations or making pre-employment inquiries to determine if an applicant has a disability, or the nature of the disability. Under the ADA, employers may require applicants to submit to post-offer medical exams, administered after the applicant has received
- [GroupOne webinar “Tips for Fees Management When Background Screening” in two days!](https://gp1.com/groupone-webinar-tips-for-fees-management-when-background-screening-in-two-days/) - GroupOne Background Screening’s webinar series will continue in just two days this Thursday, July 27 with “Tips for Fees Management When Background Screening” from 2:00-3:00 p.m., CT. You don’t want to miss this educational event with our expert speakers David Graves, HR guru and sales rep, and Danny Davila, director of FCRA Regulatory Risk. This complimentary webinar will detail some helpful
- [GroupOne webinar “Tips for Fees Management When Background Screening” in one week!](https://gp1.com/groupone-webinar-tips-for-fees-management-when-background-screening-in-one-week/) - GroupOne Background Screening’s webinar series will continue in just one week on Thursday, July 27 with “Tips for Fees Management When Background Screening” from 2:00-3:00 p.m., CT. You don’t want to miss this educational event with our expert speakers David Graves, HR guru and sales rep, and Danny Davila, director of FCRA Regulatory Risk. This complimentary webinar will detail some helpful
- [Texas takes the lead in addressing workplace violence in healthcare facilities](https://gp1.com/texas-takes-the-lead-in-addressing-workplace-violence-in-healthcare-facilities/) - Excerpted from a Seyfarth Shaw LLP Blog by Julia Tape and Linda Schoonmaker Workplace violence costs employers billions of dollars per year. The consequences impact morale and can lead to individuals leaving the workforce. Compared to other jobs, professionals in the healthcare industry experience higher rates of workplace violence. Recognizing this, the Texas legislature has
- [Can a job candidate or employee refuse a drug test?](https://gp1.com/can-a-job-candidate-or-employee-refuse-a-drug-test/) - Absolutely. But you’re probably not going to get the job and employees will be terminated. An employer can decide not to hire someone based on refusal of a drug test as long as that is the sole reason and not because they are part of a protected class (groups protected by anti-discrimination laws). This decision
- [Proposed bill would require background checks for all contractors](https://gp1.com/proposed-bill-would-require-background-checks-for-all-contractors/) - Excerpted from an NBC Boston 10 story by Ryan Kath Proposed legislation that would require background checks of contractors who register in Massachusetts and would provide more money for consumers who get ripped off was introduced on Beacon Hill. The bill, filed by Democratic State Sen. Susan Moran, came in response to an investigative series
- [GroupOne webinar “Tips for Fees Management When Background Screening” in two weeks!](https://gp1.com/groupone-webinar-tips-for-fees-management-when-background-screening-in-two-weeks/) - GroupOne Background Screening’s webinar series will continue in just two weeks on Thursday, July 27 with “Tips for Fees Management When Background Screening” from 2:00-3:00 p.m., CT. You don’t want to miss this educational event with our expert speakers David Graves, HR guru and sales rep, and Danny Davila, director of FCRA Regulatory Risk. This complimentary webinar will detail some helpful
- [Can an employee sue their employer after an unwelcome drug test result?](https://gp1.com/can-an-employee-sue-their-employer-after-an-unwelcome-drug-test-result/) - Excerpted from a HRD Blog by Bernise Carolino. A third party hired by an employer to collect and test employee samples for drugs does not owe the employee a common-law duty to perform services with reasonable care, the Texas Supreme Court recently said. Turnaround Welding employed the respondent as a pipefitter, which had been his
- [Summer has arrived - OSHA reminds employers about heat illness prevention](https://gp1.com/summer-has-arrived-osha-reminds-employers-about-heat-illness-prevention/) - Over the next week, it’s going to be a hot town summer in the city. Across the southwestern U.S., it will be seven straight days of 100-plus degree weather. With the mercury on the rise, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) distributed a reminder to employers about heat illness prevention rules that were originally effective
- [LOUD QUITTING! The new emerging global trend taking the workplace by storm](https://gp1.com/loud-quitting-the-new-emerging-global-trend-taking-the-workplace-by-storm/) - Excerpted from a Littler Mendelson PC Blog by Alan Persaud and Rocio Blanco Garcia. From “Bare Minimum Mondays” to “Put Your Boss on Blast on TikTok Fridays,” loud quitting is the new emerging resignation trend affecting employers. Where employees previously used “mouse-jigglers” to simulate mouse movement to prevent computers from going into sleep mode, they
- [Missouri governor signs bills impacting cannabis banking, background checks](https://gp1.com/missouri-governor-signs-bills-impacting-cannabis-banking-background-checks/) - Excerpted from a Missouri Independent article by Rebecca Rivas Missouri’s marijuana businesses will have fewer obstacles when it comes to accessing banking, but they must now get fingerprint background checks from all their new employees and contractors, under legislation the governor signed Thursday. Few banks nationwide serve cannabis businesses and their owners — or even their
- [Texas joins growing number of states to ban natural hair discrimination](https://gp1.com/texas-joins-growing-number-of-states-to-ban-natural-hair-discrimination/) - Excerpted from a Seyfarth Shaw LLP Blog by Linda Schoonmaker and Elizabeth Humphrey Natural hairstyles have become increasingly popular among Black Americans of both sexes. Despite their popularity, these hairstyles have been overregulated frequently in the workplace. To address this concern, Texas recently joined the ranks of 21 other states in passing the CROWN Act, which
- [Labor laws – Dave & Buster's busted in Boston](https://gp1.com/labor-laws-dave-busters-busted-in-boston/) - News out of Boston last week noted Dave & Buster's has agreed to pay more than $275,000 after being cited by Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Campbell for child labor and meal break violations. The popular restaurant and arcade which originated in Dallas has 139 locations across the U.S. Campbell said the investigation started when a
- [GroupOne webinar “Tips for Fees Management When Background Screening” set for July 27!](https://gp1.com/groupone-webinar-tips-for-fees-management-when-background-screening-set-for-july-27/) - GroupOne Background Screening’s webinar series will continue Thursday, July 27 with “Tips for Fees Management When Background Screening” from 2:00-3:00 p.m., CT. You don’t want to miss this educational event with our expert speakers David Graves, HR guru and sales rep, and Danny Davila, director of FCRA Regulatory Risk. This complimentary webinar will detail some helpful tips to allow your company
- [Will limiting background checks make housing fairer?](https://gp1.com/will-limiting-background-checks-make-housing-fairer/) - Excerpted from a VOX article by Rachel M. Cohen Every year, more than 600,000 people leave US state and federal prisons. Then they need to find a place to live. Researchers have found that formerly incarcerated individuals are far more likely to be homeless than the general public. Many landlords simply reject renting to applicants who’ve been to jail or
- [DOL releases guidance on mental health accommodations for Mental Health Awareness Month](https://gp1.com/dol-releases-guidance-on-mental-health-accommodations-for-mental-health-awareness-month/) - Excerpted from a Phelps Dunbar LLP Blog by Mark Fijman Mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder are covered under both the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA). However, unlike physical disabilities, such mental conditions are often not readily apparent or can be misconstrued and offer challenges to employers
- [The Next Normal: A Littler Insight on Returning to Work](https://gp1.com/the-next-normal-a-littler-insight-on-returning-to-work/) - Excerpted from JD SUPRA by Littler After COVID-19 abates, employers may determine that they cannot return all employees to the workforce. 1 Further, employers should be aware that employees who return from furlough can become eligible (potentially immediately) for paid leaves under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act and other similar state statutes.
- [GroupOne to host July 27 webinar “Tips for Fees Management When Background Screening”](https://gp1.com/groupone-to-host-july-27-webinar-tips-for-fees-management-when-background-screening/) - GroupOne Background Screening’s webinar series will continue Thursday, July 27 with “Tips for Fees Management When Background Screening” from 2:00-3:00 p.m., CT. You don’t want to miss this educational event with our expert speakers David Graves, HR guru and sales rep, and Danny Davila, director of FCRA Regulatory Risk. This complimentary webinar will detail some helpful tips to allow your company
- [What goes into a pre-employment background check?](https://gp1.com/what-goes-into-a-pre-employment-background-check/) - Excerpted from a Forbes Article by Ginny Hogan Great news—you’ve landed the job! Or at least, someone wants to hire you. Just one teensy tiny thing. They’re going to do a pre-employment background check. You don’t need to panic—they’re not going to call your college roommate to ask if you ever smoked weed. At least,
- [Will a HIPAA violation show up on a background check?](https://gp1.com/will-a-hipaa-violation-show-up-on-a-background-check/) - Excerpted from a HIPAA Journal Blog by Steve Alder Whether or not a HIPAA violation will show up on a background check depends on the nature of the violation, the consequences of the violation, and the motive for the violation. While it is currently rare for a HIPAA violation to show up on a background
- [GroupOne’s drug testing - a powerful tool for your company!](https://gp1.com/groupones-drug-testing-a-powerful-tool-for-your-company/) - Simply put, GroupOne’s drug testing is money in your company’s pocket. Employment drug testing is a powerful tool that provides far-reaching company benefits. Today, more than 65% of companies utilize drug testing programs. Here’s the advantages: • Drug testing programs decrease absenteeism by 50%; • Drug testing programs decrease workers’ compensation incidence rates by 50%;
- [Helping ex-offenders re-enter the workforce](https://gp1.com/helping-ex-offenders-re-enter-the-workforce/) - Excerpted from an SHRM blog by Darcey McAllister I admit it. I have been one of those HR people reluctant to hire ex-offenders under the assumption that once trouble – always trouble. But my husband helped me realize the error of this stereotyping. He worked in the court system for 20 years, dealing with felons
- [Maryland vetoes bill to “Ban the Box”](https://gp1.com/maryland-vetoes-bill-ban-box/) - Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan (R) on May 26 vetoed a bill that would have barred colleges in the state from asking about criminal history on admissions applications, saying the measure was too restrictive for schools and would jeopardize student safety. The action came a day after he rejected legislation that would require businesses with at
- ["Ban the Box" effort gains support in South Carolina](https://gp1.com/ban-box-effort-gains-support-south-carolina/) - Excerpted from thestate.com, by Daniel J. Gross An effort to give those convicted of a crime a better chance at employment is finding some interest in Spartanburg, South Carolina. Several City Council members have said they’re willing to explore a proposal that would eliminate the criminal background question on city job applications. Meghan Smith, a
- [NAPBS background screening webinar on July 18](https://gp1.com/napbs-background-screening-webinar-july-18/) - GroupOne would like to invite you to join the National Association of Professional Background Screeners’ (NAPBS) Chair Dawn Standerwick and Executive Director Melissa Sorenson on July 18 at 1:00 p.m. ET for a comprehensive webinar hosted in conjunction with HR.com to discuss the findings of a national survey on background screening trends and practices.This webinar
- [Nevada Legislature passes ride-share rules](https://gp1.com/nevada-legislature-passes-ride-share-rules/) - Excerpted from capradio.orgThe 79th Session of the Nevada Legislature adjourned June 5 after lawmakers approved most of what few bills remained in the legislative process and passed new rules on ride-sharing companies in their final hours.Here’s a look at what came out of the final session.Ride-Sharing: New oversight would be put on drivers for ride-sharing
- [GroupOne’s Davila to speak at October 6 event](https://gp1.com/groupones-davila-speak-october-6-event/) - GroupOne Executive Director Danny Davila will serve as the keynote speaker during a Dallas-Fort Worth Healthcare Human Resources Association (DFWHHRA) luncheon on Friday, October 6 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Texas Star Conference Center in Euless, Texas. His topic will be “Legislative Information with Regard for Background Checking.”There will also be a
- [Texas to create new reporting and screening requirements for foster care workers](https://gp1.com/texas-to-create-new-reporting-and-screening-requirements-for-foster-care-workers/) - Excerpted from a Texas Tribune article by Sneha Dey A pair of bills that would prevent caretakers at foster care facilities from perpetuating abuse against children are making their way to the governor. The legislation, which has now passed in both chambers, was in response to allegations of misconduct from a caretaker at a Bastrop
- [What churches need to consider when background screening volunteers and staff](https://gp1.com/what-churches-need-to-consider-when-background-screening-volunteers-and-staff/) - Excerpted from a Christian Post Blog by Tom Ellis Pastors and church leaders are responsible to their youngest, most vulnerable attendees whose parents entrust to children’s ministry programs. Conducting background checks on volunteers and staff who work with children is an important step in protecting them from potential predators. At its core, a background check
- [New Chamber report shows how substance use disorder contributes to workforce challenges](https://gp1.com/new-chamber-report-shows-how-substance-use-disorder-contributes-to-workforce-challenges/) - Excerpted from The Bottom Line news article by Sawyer Coffey Kentucky continues to struggle with a major substance use disorder crisis, with devastating effects not only on public health and families but also on Kentucky’s economy and workforce. In fact, substance use disorder, or SUD, is a key reason why Kentucky has one of the
- [More employers loosening drug policies to fill jobs — even the federal government](https://gp1.com/more-employers-loosening-drug-policies-to-fill-jobs-even-the-federal-government/) - Excerpted from a Money article by Sarah Hansen The U.S. government is slowly easing up on a major roadblock to hiring new workers: drug policies. That’s according to a new report from the New York Times, which finds that the federal government is “significantly relaxing drug screening rules.” The government is joining a wide range of employers that
- [The top “Red Flags” on a background check](https://gp1.com/the-top-red-flags-on-a-background-check/) - Of the many questions we are asked at GroupOne Background Screening, perhaps the most common is what “red flags” do employers notice during a background check? We’ve listed nine of the most common below. 1. Erratic employment history Gaps in employment history are not always a cause for concern, but a regular pattern of unemployment
- [The biggest résumé lies to avoid](https://gp1.com/the-biggest-resume-lies-to-avoid/) - Excerpted from a Monster.com Blog by Dawn Papandrea Finding a job is challenging enough, but when your competition is cheating with résumé lies, it can make standing out even tougher. But lies on a résumé won't get you anywhere—except maybe in hot water. According to the Monster Future of Work: 2021 Outlook survey, 66% of
- [EEOC identifies “Promising Practices for Preventing Harassment”](https://gp1.com/eeoc-identifies-promising-practices-for-preventing-harassment/) - Excerpted from a Shawe Rosenthal LLP Blog by Fiona W. Ong The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission has issued guidance to assist federal agencies in preventing and remedying harassment in the workplace – but specifically observed that “many of the practices identified may also be helpful to practitioners outside of the federal government.” Thus, private employers may find
- [CFPB confirms automated systems not an excuse for lawbreaking behavior](https://gp1.com/cfpb-confirms-automated-systems-not-an-excuse-for-lawbreaking-behavior/) - Excerpted from Consumer Financial Protection Bureau post Four federal agencies jointly pledged on April 25 to uphold America’s commitment to the core principles of fairness, equality, and justice as emerging automated systems, including those sometimes marketed as “artificial intelligence” or “AI,” have become increasingly common in our daily lives – impacting civil rights, fair competition,
- [Should employee background checks shift to continuous?](https://gp1.com/should-employee-background-checks-shift-to-continuous/) - The use of post-employment background checks for continuous monitoring is on the rise across the U.S. With police records now being digital, employers could learn of an employee's arrest soon after booking. But using such technology can also raise serious ethical questions for employers. Today, about 93% of companies conduct background checks as part of
- [Curtailing Credit Checks](https://gp1.com/curtailing-credit-checks/) - By Mark McGraw Excerpted from NAPBS Newsletter Using job candidates' credit histories as a factor in hiring decisions can be risky business. Some argue that information uncovered in a credit check could offer clues as to an applicant's likelihood to, say, commit embezzlement or theft. Others contend that performing credit checks unduly affects certain job
- [California seeks to ban most criminal background checks](https://gp1.com/california-seeks-to-ban-most-criminal-background-checks/) - California legislators met on April 11 to discuss a proposed overhaul of employment-related criminal background checks.
- [Update for employers regarding change to background check summary of rights](https://gp1.com/update-for-employers-regarding-change-to-background-check-summary-of-rights/) - Excerpted from a McDermott Will & Emery Blog by Marjorie C. Soto Garcia and Cristell Fortune The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) recently released an updated version of the “A Summary of Your Rights Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act” notice to job applicants and employees required in connection with conducting employment background checks (also
- [A few 2023 challenges for background screenings](https://gp1.com/a-few-2023-challenges-for-background-screenings/) - Looking to stay ahead of the game in 2023? Check out our article on the top challenges facing background screenings this year.
- [Providing proof of background checks to tenants](https://gp1.com/providing-proof-background-checks-tenants/) - Excerpted from a WJHG.com post by Mike Vasilinda Landlords in Florida could soon be required to provide residents with proof they have conducted background checks on people working in apartment complexes. Failure to provide notices would give people the right to cancel their lease. Part-time student Mary Beasley has been renting her apartment for almost
- [GroupOne’s Hot Topic webinar “Is the Résumé Authentic?” has been posted online](https://gp1.com/groupones-hot-topic-webinar-is-the-resume-authentic-has-been-posted-online/) - GroupOne Background Screening’s webinar “Is the Résumé Authentic? Candidate Assessment in the Modern World” originally broadcast on April 6 has now been posted online. This “Hot Topic” event included our expert speakers David Graves, HR guru and sales rep, and Danny Davila, director of FCRA Regulatory Risk. They detailed how fraudulent résumés can pose serious liability issues
- [GroupOne's Hot Topic webinar “Is the Résumé Authentic?” one week away!](https://gp1.com/groupones-hot-topic-webinar-is-the-resume-authentic-one-week-away/) - GroupOne Background Screening’s webinar “Is the Résumé Authentic? Candidate Assessment in the Modern World” is just one week away on Thursday, April 6 from 1:00-2:00 p.m., CT. You don’t want to miss this “Hot Topic” event with our expert speakers David Graves, HR guru and sales rep, and Danny Davila, director of FCRA Regulatory Risk.
- [Late-night texts - court rules some employee communications aren’t work related](https://gp1.com/late-night-texts-court-rules-some-employee-communications-arent-work-related/) - A text from a supervisor late at night is usually bad news. And in this case, we could not agree more. With California’s Fair Employment and Housing Act, employers are usually liable for a supervisor’s harassment. This left employers with a minimum of recourse when supervisors misbehaved, but a recently published court decision begs to
- [BUSTED: 10 executives who lied about their résumés](https://gp1.com/busted-10-executives-who-lied-about-their-resumes/) - Excerpted from a Business Insider story by Vivian Giang and Jhaneel Lockhart A little fibbing on your résumé might not seem like a big deal when you're applying for a low-ranking position, but you never know where your professional career will end up. As these top-notch executives prove, even if your career stays intact, be
- [GroupOne's April 6 Hot Topic webinar “Is the Résumé Authentic?” just two weeks away!](https://gp1.com/groupones-april-6-hot-topic-webinar-is-the-resume-authentic-just-two-weeks-away/) - GroupOne Background Screening’s webinar “Is the Résumé Authentic? Candidate Assessment in the Modern World” is just two weeks away on Thursday, April 6 from 1:00-2:00 p.m., CT. You don’t want to miss this “Hot Topic” event with our expert speakers David Graves, HR guru and sales rep, and Danny Davila, director of FCRA Regulatory Risk.
- [GroupOne to host April 6 webinar “Is the Résumé Authentic?” Don't miss this Hot Topic event!](https://gp1.com/groupone-to-host-april-6-webinar-is-the-resume-authentic-dont-miss-this-hot-topic-event/) - GroupOne Background Screening’s webinar series will continue Thursday, April 6 with “Is the Résumé Authentic? Candidate Assessment in the Modern World” from 1:00-2:00 p.m., CT. You don’t want to miss this “Hot Topic” event with our expert speakers David Graves, HR guru and sales rep, and Danny Davila, director of FCRA Regulatory Risk. Fraudulent résumés
- [Happy Healthcare Human Resources Week!](https://gp1.com/happy-healthcare-human-resources-week/) - Did you know March 13-17 is Healthcare Human Resources (HR) Week? What an important opportunity to recognize HR professionals in healthcare organizations throughout the nation for their vital role across the continuum of care. On behalf of GroupOne Background Screening, we extend our sincere appreciation to each of you as HR providers in the crucial
- [TikTok countdown? White House requires removal of popular app from federal IT](https://gp1.com/tiktok-countdown-white-house-requires-removal-of-popular-app-from-federal-it/) - The TikTok countdown has begun. On February 28, the White House issued a memorandum requiring federal employees to remove the TikTok application from any government device within 30 days. This memo, which continues a trend across several U.S. states including Texas, is the result of an act passed by Congress that requires the removal of TikTok from
- [A first - class action suit filed over alleged AI tool discrimination when hiring](https://gp1.com/a-first-class-action-suit-filed-over-alleged-ai-tool-discrimination-when-hiring/) - The first of what is expected to be many lawsuits over an employer’s use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools when hiring was filed February 21, 2023. As noted in past blogs, such tools have caught the attention of the White House and the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). The class action lawsuit was filed against Workday, Inc. in
- [FTC and CFPB seek public comment on background screening and renters’ housing](https://gp1.com/ftc-and-cfpb-seek-public-comment-on-background-screening-and-renters-housing/) - The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) are requesting comment on background screening issues affecting individuals who seek rental housing in the U.S., including how the use of criminal and eviction records and algorithms affect tenant screening decisions and may drive discriminatory outcomes. Today, renters are facing a range of challenges
- [Legal tender, not chicken tenders!](https://gp1.com/legal-tender-not-chicken-tenders/) - Excerpted from a Shawe Rosenthal LLP Blog by Fiona Ong No, you may not pay your workers in chicken sandwiches or, really, in anything other than money. That was the lesson learned by a Chick-Fil-A franchise, as the U.S. Department of Labor recently announced. According to a CBS news story, the franchise posted on its Facebook page:
- [Now you see it, now you don’t – can you rescind a job offer?](https://gp1.com/now-you-see-it-now-you-dont-can-you-rescind-a-job-offer/) - Excerpted from a Graydon Health & Ritchey LLP Blog by Daniel Burke and Cassidy Zang It’s no secret the job market is facing some headwinds, with employers implementing layoffs and hiring freezes to avoid being overstaffed in the event of a recession. Another tool employers may consider in this challenging economic climate is rescinding job
- [Washington State Senate passes bill banning hiring discrimination for pot use](https://gp1.com/washington-state-senate-passes-bill-banning-hiring-discrimination-for-pot-use/) - Excerpted from a High Times article by A. J. Herrington The Washington Senate this week approved a bill that would protect cannabis users from pre-employment job discrimination. The measure, Senate Bill 5123, was passed by the state Senate on Wednesday by a vote of 28-21 and will now be considered by the Washington House of
- [Court issues favorable background check ruling for employers](https://gp1.com/court-issues-favorable-background-check-ruling-for-employers/) - As you well know, employers are frequently faced with class-action lawsuits brought by current or former employees. There has been an uptick in suits claiming violations of state and federal background check laws, and these would also be for seemingly minor technical errors. In a rare ruling, a California Court of Appeal recently delivered good
- [Should I tell a job recruiter about a prior felony before being asked?](https://gp1.com/should-i-tell-a-job-recruiter-about-a-prior-felony-before-being-asked/) - Excerpted from a USA Today Column by Johnny C. Taylor, Jr. Question: I was convicted of a felony nine years ago related to something I did when drunk. Since then, I have gone to treatment, been sober, and straightened my life out. I was contacted by a recruiter this week and now have an interview
- [What types of Background Checks are available?](https://gp1.com/what-types-of-background-checks-are-available/) - A bit of GroupOne Background Screening Services 101 for your information. There are several types of background checks that can be performed, including: Criminal Background Check: This type of check searches records for any history of arrest or conviction; Employment Verification: This type of check verifies a person’s employment history, including past employers, job titles, and dates of
- [How far back do background checks go?](https://gp1.com/how-far-back-to-background-checks-go/) - Background checks can vary in how far back they go, depending on the type of check, its purpose, and the laws that apply. For instance, a background check for a job usually looks into your criminal history from the past seven years. The ‘seven years rule’ refers to the standard that many background check companies
- [Background checks on minors – is it legal?](https://gp1.com/background-checks-minors-legal/) - GroupOne Background Screening has often been asked if we can conduct background checks on minors. Is it legal? Usually the answer is “Yes,” but there are many elements to consider before performing such checks.In order to conduct a background check on a minor, you must always have parental or a legal guardian’s consent. In fact,
- [Your Preference for Reference – GroupOne’s Reference Checks!](https://gp1.com/your-preference-for-reference-groupones-reference-checks/) - At GroupOne Background Screening, we make reference checks easy! Did you know we provide both personal and professional reference checks as part of our background check process or à la carte? You may choose from either standard questions or provide your own. You can have as many sets of questions or survey types as you
- [VLOG – GroupOne’s David Graves discusses “Compliance is Not Rocket Science!”](https://gp1.com/vlog-groupones-david-graves-discusses-compliance-is-not-rocket-science/) - Still working from home due to COVID-19, GroupOne Background Screening sales associate and HR guru David Graves posted a continuation of his video series today to discuss “Compliance is Not Rocket Science” prior to launching an actual rocket – and we’re not kidding! The video is the 18th of a series David plans to post
- [It’s not rocket science – let GroupOne help with compliance!](https://gp1.com/its-not-rocket-science-let-groupone-help-with-compliance/) - Is your hospital compliant? With an expanding array of regulatory requirements, healthcare organizations must regularly screen physicians, nurses, non-medical employees, pharmacists, contractors and volunteers against a variety of exclusion lists. Failure to comply can result in fines and exclusion. GroupOne offers the complete package of Exclusion and Sanction Screening to keep you in compliance with
- [GroupOne is your one-stop station for ATS Integration!](https://gp1.com/groupone-is-your-one-stop-station-for-ats-integration/) - Did you know GroupOne Background Screening is a one-stop station for ATS Integration? Our platform integrates with more than 70% of the applicant tracking systems (ATS) in use today. With an open API, new ATS/HRIS integrations can be added swiftly for little to no cost! At GroupOne, we understand the most important integration is the
- [Clear your Volunteer – GroupOne’s screening provides FCRA coverage!](https://gp1.com/clear-your-volunteer-groupones-screening-provides-fcra-coverage/) - Here at GroupOne Background Screening, we’ve been checking on your volunteers for over 25 years. Volunteers are screened for the same reason employers conduct background checks – to verify identity and eliminate problems that could arise from an undisclosed criminal history. Advantages of GroupOne’s Volunteer Background Screening include: • Public safety; • Legal compliance; •
- [In most states, employers can ask you for your credit report](https://gp1.com/in-most-states-employers-can-ask-you-for-your-credit-report/) - Excerpted from a 10NEWS story by Emery Winter and Mauricio Chamberlin The pandemic, layoffs and other changes to the labor market have forced many people to apply to new jobs in the past few years. One viewer who was going through the hiring process said a potential employer asked to look at her credit. She
- [Is an employer justified in terminating an employee for inappropriate social media posts?](https://gp1.com/is-an-employer-justified-in-terminating-an-employee-for-inappropriate-social-media-posts/) - Excerpted from a Troutman Pepper Blog by Sean Craig Can a private employer terminate an employee for social media posts that violate internal policies? The Third Circuit, in a nonprecedential opinion, recently determined that a major airline acted permissibly in firing an employee for sharing offensive social media posts. The airline employee brought suit against
- [Reevaluating your workplace Drug Testing policy](https://gp1.com/reevaluating-your-workplace-drug-testing-policy/) - Excerpted from a Forbes Article by Clarissa Windham-Bradstock As if the COVID-19 pandemic isn’t enough to deal with, drug overdoses are ramping up, and yes, this recent trend has the potential to touch all of our workplaces. The National Institutes of Health reports that opioid use disorder (OUD) and opioid addiction are now at epidemic
- [The future of work is global—remote leaders should embrace this shift, not fear it](https://gp1.com/the-future-of-work-is-global-remote-leaders-should-embrace-this-shift-not-fear-it/) - Excerpted from a Forbes Article by Tim Dowd Over the past few years, the concept of the workplace—and the way we work—has rapidly transformed. Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, companies found it necessary to accelerate the digitalization of their operations to run effectively, both within their organizations and in engaging with customers. Technology has enabled collaboration
- [Up in Smoke: Should businesses still drug test for marijuana?](https://gp1.com/up-in-smoke-should-businesses-still-drug-test-for-marijuana/) - Excerpted from a Business.com Blog by Skye Schooley Congrats. You can finally buy weed legally in New York! OK, if you’ve ever been to Manhattan, you’ve likely already seen (or smelled) the endless number of weed shops and trucks on seemingly every corner. While we’re not entirely sure how those didn’t get shut down previously,
- [Check out GroupOne’s 2020-2022 webinar series!](https://gp1.com/check-out-groupones-2020-2022-webinar-series/) - Have you had an opportunity to check out GroupOne Background Screening’s 2020-2022 webinar series? No worries, we’re here to provide you the information. GroupOne’s webinar series began in 2020 when the unfortunate COVID-19 pandemic began. Our team wanted to provide a safe, virtual forum for clients to access valuable information on background screening, drug screening
- [Employers should note post-midterms state law changes](https://gp1.com/employers-should-note-post-midterms-state-law-changes/) - Excerpted from a JacksonLewis Blog by Richard Greenberg, Susan Groff, Tasos Paindiris and Kathryn Russo As the final tally of ballots comes in for many electoral races across the country, the outcomes of the various state ballot measures that were also part of the Nov. 8 midterm elections could require changes to employers’ policies and
- [Uncharted territory – New York’s Adult Survivors Act claims](https://gp1.com/uncharted-territory-new-yorks-adult-survivors-act-claims/) - Excerpted from a Seyfarth Shaw LLP Blog by Karen Y. Bitar For any company doing business in New York, this coming November 24 represents more than just Thanksgiving. It will also initiate a one-year period in which any person who claims to have suffered sexual abuse at any time in the past (so long as
- [2023: The year “Pay Transparency” becomes a bigger deal](https://gp1.com/2023-the-year-pay-transparency-becomes-a-bigger-deal/) - Excerpted from a Snell & Wilmer LLP Blog by John Lomax, Brian Mills, Kevin Brown, Delilah Cassidy and Caitlin White The continuing trend of state and local government regulating aspects of the employment relationship continues, and this time the focus is on pay transparency. These new laws require employers to disclose the pay they offer
- [Temp-to-perm hiring brings benefits when done right](https://gp1.com/temp-to-perm-hiring-brings-benefits-when-done-right/) - Excerpted from an SHRM Blog by Ray Maurer Contingent workers—such as temps, contractors and gig workers—bring lots of advantages to organizations, including cost-efficiency, increased flexibility, a larger labor pool and access to specialized talent. They also can be prospects for hire after a trial run. Temporary-to-permanent hiring can be a successful talent acquisition strategy, especially
- [At a glance: hiring employees in USA](https://gp1.com/at-a-glance-hiring-employees-in-usa/) - Excerpted from a Morgan Lewis Blog by Claire M. Lesikar and Michael D. Schlemmer Background checks Are there any restrictions or prohibitions against background checks on applicants? Does it make a difference if an employer conducts its own checks or hires a third party? Federal law does not generally restrict background checks of applicants and
- [Employment Law Update 2023: New compliance obligations for the New Year](https://gp1.com/employment-law-update-2023-new-compliance-obligations-for-the-new-year/) - Excerpted from a Littler Blog by Joy Rosenquist and Bruce Sarchet The year 2022 is coming to a close, and the new year will be here before we know it. While many states, cities and counties seem to be willing to pass employment laws and regulations at any time, the first day of a new
- [GroupOne webinar “Tips for Employment Verifications” has been posted online!](https://gp1.com/groupone-webinar-tips-for-employment-verifications-has-been-posted-online/) - Need a few tips on employment verifications? We’re so glad you asked! GroupOne Background Screening’s 2022 webinar series continued on November 10 with “Ordering Tips for Employment Verifications.” The event was recorded and has now been posted online. The complimentary live webinar served as an interactive discussion with two of GroupOne’s finest experts, David Graves,
- [Just two days until GroupOne webinar "Tips for Employment Verifications" - register today!](https://gp1.com/just-two-days-until-groupone-webinar-tips-for-employment-verifications-register-today/) - Need a few tips on employment verifications? GroupOne Background Screening will continue its 2022 webinar series with “Ordering Tips for Employment Verifications” in just two days on Thursday, November 10 from 2:00-3:00 p.m., CST. Register today! This complimentary live event will be an interactive discussion with two of our finest experts in GroupOne, David Graves,
- [Just one week until GroupOne webinar "Tips for Employment Verifications" - register today!](https://gp1.com/just-one-week-until-groupone-webinar-tips-for-employment-verifications-register-today/) - Need a few tips on employment verifications? GroupOne Background Screening will continue its 2022 webinar series with “Ordering Tips for Employment Verifications” in just one week on Thursday, November 10 from 2:00-3:00 p.m., CST. Register today! This complimentary live event will be an interactive discussion with two of our finest experts in GroupOne, David Graves,
- [State laws on voting rights and time off to vote – start planning!](https://gp1.com/state-laws-on-voting-rights-and-time-off-to-vote-start-planning/) - We’re a week away from Election Day 2022 next Tuesday, November 8. Since Election Day falls on a weekday, quite a few people will be expected at the office – remote or in person. State laws on voting rights usually become a hot topic during this time, so here’s a few tips courtesy of GroupOne
- [Rap Music in the Workplace – can it create a hostile work environment?](https://gp1.com/rap-music-in-the-workplace-can-it-create-a-hostile-work-environment/) - Excerpted from a Shawe Rosenthal LLP Blog by Evan Conder Is the playing specific rap music in the workplace discriminatory on the basis of sex if it offends women? A former Tesla employee has asked the U.S. District Court for Nevada to answer “yes” to that question after filing suit against her former employer alleging
- [GroupOne experts to discuss "Tips for Employment Verifications" on Nov. 10!](https://gp1.com/groupone-experts-to-discuss-tips-for-employment-verifications-on-nov-10/) - Need a few tips on employment verifications? GroupOne Background Screening will continue its 2022 webinar series with “Ordering Tips for Employment Verifications” on Thursday, November 10 from 2:00-3:00 p.m., CST. This complimentary live event will be an interactive discussion with two of our finest experts in GroupOne, David Graves, our famous HR Guru and Sales
- [Bill of Rights for “Information Age” – White House outlines AI design and use](https://gp1.com/bill-of-rights-for-information-age-white-house-outlines-ai-design-and-use/) - Excerpted from a Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP Blog by Kevin J. White and Daniel J. Butler It’s no secret legislators and regulatory agencies have taken note of companies’ increasing reliance on Artificial Intelligence (AI). In the employment context, vendors market AI as an efficiency tool that can streamline HR processes and guard against human bias
- [Don't miss GroupOne's live webinar "Employment Verifications" on Nov. 10!](https://gp1.com/dont-miss-groupones-live-webinar-employment-verifications-on-nov-10/) - Need a few tips on employment verifications? We’re so glad you asked! GroupOne Background Screening will continue its 2022 webinar series with “Ordering Tips for Employment Verifications” on Thursday, November 10 from 2:00-3:00 p.m., CST. This complimentary live event will be an interactive discussion with two of our finest experts in GroupOne, David Graves, our
- [Employers and weed crime pardons: background checks explained](https://gp1.com/employers-and-weed-crime-pardons-background-checks-explained/) - Excerpted from a Bloomberg Law Blog by Paige Smith President Joe Biden’s much-ballyhooed move to pardon people charged with federal offenses for simple marijuana possession could mean renewed hopes for thousands of people with these convictions who may have been denied employment opportunities. The White House said the pardons could impact more than 6,500 people,
- [NFL player lowers the boom on activist running across the field – was it legal?](https://gp1.com/nfl-player-lowers-the-boom-on-activist-running-across-the-field-was-it-legal/) - To say these days are scary public times is probably an understatement. Headlines detailing school shootings, unruly airline passengers and anti-Asian hate crimes are enough to put anyone on edge. So, when an unknown person runs onto a football field carrying a pink smoke bomb, who knows what he’s up to? If you’ve seen the
- [Veto likely to result in continued delayed background checks in California](https://gp1.com/veto-likely-to-result-in-continued-delayed-background-checks-in-california/) - Excerpted from a Littler Mendelson PC Blog by Rod Fliegel, William Simmons and Wendy Buckingham The May 2021 court decision All of Us or None v. Hamrick in California has caused significant background check delays in California county courts and left background check companies unable to report some criminal record search results. The gist of
- [GroupOne webinar “Employment Verifications” set for Nov. 10!](https://gp1.com/groupone-webinar-employment-verifications-set-for-nov-10/) - Need a few tips on employment verifications? We’re so glad you asked! GroupOne Background Screening will continue its 2022 webinar series with “Ordering Tips for Employment Verifications” on Thursday, November 10 from 2:00-3:00 p.m., CST. This complimentary live event will be an interactive discussion with two of our finest experts in GroupOne, David Graves, our
- [Employers can no longer treat marijuana the way they did 20 years ago](https://gp1.com/employers-can-no-longer-treat-marijuana-the-way-they-did-20-years-ago/) - Excerpted from a Jackson Lewis PC Blog by Kathryn J. Russo and Kristina Vaquera The changing legal landscape relating to marijuana usage means that employers, especially those with safety sensitive positions or who are subject to federally mandated compliance requirements, need to review their current policies and approaches to positive drug tests reflecting marijuana usage
- [Hurricane Ian a reminder employers should have a disaster plan in place](https://gp1.com/hurricane-ian-a-reminder-employers-should-have-a-disaster-plan-in-place/) - As the terrifying Hurricane and Tropical Storm Ian pummels Florida, it’s probably a good time to consider your company’s disaster plan. Here’s a detailed “Emergency Preparedness Checklist” provided by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). This checklist includes considerations for Human Resources (HR) in planning for emergencies. A multidisciplinary emergency planning team should be
- [Airbnb is banning people with criminal records](https://gp1.com/airbnb-is-banning-people-with-criminal-records/) - Excerpted from a Techdirt Blog by Mike Masnick A story made the rounds recently about how Airbnb effectively banned Bethany Hallam for life. Hallam, an Allegheny County, Pennsylvania councilperson received a notification from Airbnb that a third party it used for background checks had noted a “criminal records match” in doing a background check, and
- [Amazon sued over refusal to hire California sex offenders](https://gp1.com/amazon-sued-over-refusal-to-hire-california-sex-offenders/) - Excerpted from a Reuters Blog by Daniel Wiessner Amazon.com, Inc. is facing a proposed class action claiming it illegally used a California sex offender website to conduct background checks on job applicants. Miguel Lerma, who was convicted of rape nearly a decade ago, filed a complaint in Los Angeles federal court last Thursday claiming Amazon
- [New Jersey issues guidance on cannabis “Workplace Impairment” determinations](https://gp1.com/new-jersey-issues-guidance-on-cannabis-workplace-impairment-determinations/) - The purple haze has lifted! As previously noted in our blog, on February 22, 2021, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy signed the “New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory, Enforcement Assistance, and Marketplace Modernization Act,” which legalized recreational cannabis use in the state. While the law allows employers to drug test for cannabis, it limits their ability to
- [Searching for a job? Time to get your references lined up](https://gp1.com/searching-for-a-job-time-to-get-your-references-lined-up/) - Excerpted from The Next Web Blog by Pippa Hardy References: Didn’t they go out with the ark? These days we are far more inclined to think that all the power in job hunting lies in employee referral programs or social media recommendations, and as a result, lots of job seekers forget about the power of
- [Workplace investigations: Why get a written report](https://gp1.com/workplace-investigations-why-get-a-written-report/) - Excerpted from a Levy Employment Law LLC Blog by Tracey Levy One of the thorny questions that eventually arises in workplace investigations is how to memorialize the findings. Is it sufficient to save the notes from interviews in a file? How about a letter notifying key parties the investigation has been closed and the concerns
- [Gun reform: How employers can protect employees from workplace violence](https://gp1.com/gun-reform-how-employers-can-protect-employees-from-workplace-violence/) - Excerpted from a Hall Benefits Law Blog Congress recently passed the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, or gun reform legislation, that President Biden has now signed into law. Portions of this legislation may help reduce workplace violence that involves domestic abusers who pursue their partners at their workplaces. The gun reform legislation contains a provision that
- [The cure for burnout is not self-care – a discussion on “Quiet Quitting”](https://gp1.com/the-cure-for-burnout-is-not-self-care-a-discussion-on-quiet-quitting/) - Excerpted from an article in The Atlantic by Caroline Mimbs Nyce The first thing you need to know about “Quiet Quitting” is that it’s not actually quitting. Instead, the quitter keeps their job and chooses to do only the bare minimum rather than go above and beyond. The second thing you need to know is
- [Montana state hospital worker bypassed background check by using different name](https://gp1.com/montana-state-hospital-worker-bypassed-background-check-by-using-different-name/) - Excerpted from an article in The Independent by Seaborn Larson A former employee at the Montana state-run psychiatric hospital used a different name on her job application, meaning a background check that should have raised a red flag on her employment history didn't, according to the state health department. The facility's "inadvertent" employment of Larissa
- [What Serena Williams’ retirement can teach employers about working mothers](https://gp1.com/what-serena-williams-retirement-can-teach-employers-about-working-mothers/) - Excerpted from a Ford & Harrison LLP Blog by Alyce B. Ogunsola On August 9, Serena Williams said “Farewell to Tennis On Her Own Terms—And in Her Own Words,” in an emotionally riveting Vogue magazine article. In the feature, Serena recounts a story of her five-year old daughter, Olympia, being asked what she wanted to
- [Podcast: The Third Circuit’s decision and what it means for FCRA litigation](https://gp1.com/podcast-the-third-circuits-decision-and-what-it-means-for-fcra-litigation/) - Excerpted from a Ballard Spahr LLP Blog by Barbara S. Mishkin In Bibbs v. Trans Union, the Third Circuit ruled that in determining whether a credit report is inaccurate or misleading under the Fair Credit Reporting Act's (FCRA) “maximum possible accuracy” requirement, a district court should apply a “reasonable reader” standard. After reviewing the background
- [California bill would protect employees who use cannabis outside work](https://gp1.com/california-bill-would-protect-employees-who-use-cannabis-outside-work/) - Excerpted from a Washington Post story by Derek Hawkins It’s been six years since California legalized recreational marijuana, but workers in the state can still face punishment if they fail cannabis tests required by their employers. That could soon change. This week, lawmakers in Sacramento passed a bill that would protect employees who use marijuana
- [Are employers liable for employee off-duty crimes?](https://gp1.com/are-employers-liable-for-employee-off-duty-crimes/) - Excerpted from a Bloomberg Law Blog by Jason Knott This past summer, a Dallas County, Texas jury slapped Charter Communications with $7.375 billion in damages. The Goff v. Holden & Charter Communications, LLC verdict is exceptional due to its size, and because it penalized Charter for an employee’s criminal conduct while off-duty. Generally, an employer
- [Background Screening 101 – the end of summer edition!](https://gp1.com/background-screening-101-the-end-of-summer-edition/) - It’s hard to believe, but the long, hot summer is coming to an end. With that, let’s cover a few basics about background screening or, as we like to call it – our latest edition of “Background Screening 101.” What’s the law? Specifically, federal law does not restrict background checks of applicants and employees as
- [Study finds volunteers expect background checks](https://gp1.com/study-finds-volunteers-expect-background-checks/) - Excerpted from a WSAW-TV story by Hannah Borchert The start of the school year brings with it the need for volunteers, both inside and outside the classroom. “Volunteers come in with certain expectations on safety and qualification in terms of background checks and those types of things,” said Eric Spacek, Assistant Vice President of Risk
- [Rekindling a sense of “community” at work](https://gp1.com/rekindling-a-sense-of-community-at-work/) - Excerpted from a Harvard Business Review article by Christine Porath and Carla Piñeyro Sublett For decades, we’ve been living lonelier, more isolated lives. As our social connectedness has decreased, so has our happiness and mental health. And with more aspects of our lives becoming digital, it has reduced our opportunities for everyday social interaction. The
- [Well, that escalated quickly: Judge rules Florida’s “Stop WOKE” Act unconstitutional](https://gp1.com/well-that-escalated-quickly-judge-rules-floridas-stop-woke-act-unconstitutional/) - Excerpted from a Bradley Arant Boult Cummings LLP Blog by Whitney Jackson and J. William Manuel Is the “Stop WOKE” Act dead in Florida? Not yet, but in Honeyfund.com, Inc., et al v. Desantis, et al, one federal district court has certainly put the brakes on it. On April 22, 2022, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis
- [What is “Quiet Quitting” and what do employers need to know?](https://gp1.com/what-is-quiet-quitting-and-what-do-employers-need-to-know/) - Like most viral phrases, "quiet quitting" is equal parts confusing and misleading. Some claim it means doing the minimum amount of work. Others say it's about setting priorities and rebelling against 'work culture.' There are those who say it's about taking control of your life and standing up to employers expecting you to tirelessly work
- [Recruiting and retention amidst marijuana legalization – clear as mud?](https://gp1.com/recruiting-and-retention-amidst-marijuana-legalization-clear-as-mud/) - A leading drug-testing provider recently reported that positive drug tests were up 30% in 2021. That's quite a spike! This increase has been attributed to the loosening restrictions on marijuana in the U.S. Many states have legalized marijuana for medical purposes and a growing number are also legalizing recreational use. There's also pending legislation that
- [The scoop on employment background checks in stock and asset transactions](https://gp1.com/the-scoop-on-employment-background-checks-in-stock-and-asset-transactions/) - Excerpted from a McDermott Will & Emery Blog by Marjorie Clara Soto and Michelle Strowhiro Employment background checks help employers hire individuals they can trust. Buyers in transactions may view target businesses running background checks as a precursor for positive employee performance and retention. Background checks also constitute an important area for diligence in transactions
- [Nurse suspected in opioid theft hired without a background check](https://gp1.com/nurse-suspected-in-opioid-theft-hired-without-a-background-check/) - Excerpted from an Iowa Capital Dispatch article by Clark Kauffman An eastern Iowa hospital has been cited by the state for hiring, without a full background check, a nurse who was later fired for the suspected theft of opioid narcotics. The Iowa Department of Inspections and Appeals reports that in January a registered nurse working
- [What employers need to know about Monkeypox](https://gp1.com/what-employers-need-to-know-about-monkeypox/) - Enough already! Over the past two years, the COVID-19 pandemic has triggered some of the most significant cultural shifts in decades. Employers have had to radically adjust workplace practices with new policies and an endless variety of federal, state and local requirements. Now the world is seeing a yet another outbreak with the distinctive name
- [Restaurant deducts background check costs from employee checks and now must fork over $100K](https://gp1.com/restaurant-deducts-background-check-costs-from-employee-checks-and-now-must-fork-over-100k/) - The operator of five franchise restaurants in Mississippi is going to have to pick up the tab, so to say. Apparently, employees were required to pay for their background checks, uniforms and safety training. As a result, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) has held them accountable to the tune of $114,427 in back wages,
- [A closer look at school background checks after two coaches arrested](https://gp1.com/a-closer-look-at-school-background-checks-after-two-coaches-arrested/) - Excerpted from a FOX 59 Story by Eric Graves Within days of each other last week, two central Indiana high school coaches were arrested and charged with dealing and possession of drugs. The schools that hired both coaches confirmed they passed background checks. Mike McCarty’s company Safe Hiring Solutions conducted the background check for one.
- [“Reasonable reader” standard determines credit reports were not inaccurate under FCRA](https://gp1.com/reasonable-reader-standard-determines-credit-reports-were-not-inaccurate-under-fcra/) - Excerpted from a JD Supra Blog by Danile McKenna and Joel Tasca The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit has ruled that in determining whether a credit report is accurate or misleading under the Fair Credit Reporting Act’s “maximum possible accuracy” requirement, a district court should apply a “reasonable reader” standard. Bibbs v.
- [A new era of mental health in the workplace; FMLA and ADA implications](https://gp1.com/a-new-era-of-mental-health-in-the-workplace-fmla-and-ada-implications/) - Excerpted from a Ford & Harrison LLP Blog by Viktoryia Johnson There’s no denying the COVID-19 pandemic has changed the landscape of the workplace. For better or worse, what is certain is the pandemic, now in its third year, has forced U.S. workers and employers to gradually become more aware of mental health in the
- [Spectrum owes $7 billion in damages for murder of Texas customer](https://gp1.com/spectrum-owes-7-billion-in-damages-for-murder-of-texas-customer/) - Excerpted from a WFAA-TV Story by Jay Wallis A Dallas County jury found Charter Communications, which also operates as Spectrum, acted negligently in hiring a field technician who killed one of its customers. The company now owes billions of dollars in damages. The jury awarded $7 billion in damages against Charter for "systemic safety failures"
- [Massachusetts enacts CROWN Act banning discrimination based on natural hairstyles](https://gp1.com/massachusetts-enacts-crown-act-banning-discrimination-based-on-natural-hairstyles/) - Excerpted from a Holland & Knight LLP Blog by Andrew Silvia and Stephanie Merabet On July 26, 2022, Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker signed into law the Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair Act (CROWN Act), prohibiting discrimination against employees and students based on their natural or protective hairstyle. The law was inspired
- [WHO declares Monkeypox a public health emergency of international concern](https://gp1.com/who-declares-monkeypox-a-public-health-emergency-of-international-concern/) - Like the “Swine Flu” from over a decade ago, the name “Monkeypox” causes one to sit up and take notice. Combined with the last two years of the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s enough to inspire one to scream, “Enough already!” On July 23, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared monkeypox to be a “Public Health Emergency
- [Three steps to hiring remotely with confidence](https://gp1.com/three-steps-to-hiring-remotely-with-confidence/) - Excerpted from a Forbes article by Taylor Liggett Like remote work, remote hiring is becoming commonplace. Given the competitive hiring landscape, that’s good news for employers. Talent pools open up when limitations ease around specific geographic locations, giving companies greater opportunities to find the best candidates. Remote hiring practices like virtual interviews are a must
- [Mental health in the post-pandemic workplace: THREE things to consider](https://gp1.com/mental-health-in-the-post-pandemic-workplace-three-things-to-consider/) - Excerpted from a Masuda Funai Eifert & Mitchell Ltd Blog by Riebana Sachs The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted our collective mental health. Employees have lost loved ones, connections to co-workers and the comfort of daily social rhythms. A study conducted by Boston College found that during the pandemic, reports of anxiety increased to 50 percent
- [Social Media mistakes that can disqualify candidates from a job](https://gp1.com/social-media-mistakes-that-can-disqualify-candidates-from-a-job/) - Excerpted from a Monster.com Blog by Isabel Thottam Picture job searching as a two-way mirror. On one side, there’s you: a hopeful job seeker Googling everything and anything you can find out about your dream employer. And on the other side is your potential employer who can look in every nook and cranny online to
- [New background screening requirements for residential landlords in Florida](https://gp1.com/new-background-screening-requirements-for-residential-landlords-in-florida/) - A new regulation for residential landlords starting July 1 requires property owners of transient or non-transient apartments in Florida to perform background checks on all employees and licensees. The background checks are required to be performed by a consumer reporting agency such as GroupOne Background Screening in accordance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act. They
- [CA mayor signs “Healthcare Workers Minimum Wage Ordinance” increasing minimum wage to $25](https://gp1.com/ca-mayor-signs-healthcare-workers-minimum-wage-ordinance-increasing-minimum-wage-to-25/) - Excerpted from a Proskauer Rose LLP Blog by Ariel Brotman and Tony Oncidi On July 7, Mayor Eric Garcetti signed the “Healthcare Workers Minimum Wage Ordinance” effective August 13, which increases the minimum wage to $25 per hour for healthcare workers employed at privately-owned healthcare facilities within Los Angeles. Beginning January 1, 2024, the minimum
- [EEOC provides guidance on Artificial Intelligence in hiring and disability discrimination](https://gp1.com/eeoc-provides-guidance-on-artificial-intelligence-in-hiring-and-disability-discrimination/) - Excerpted from a Schulte Roth & Zabel LLP Blog by Mark Brossman, Ronald Richman, Max Garfield, Scott Gold, Donna Lazarus and Ayumi Berstein The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) recently issued a technical assistance document regarding the use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools in employment decisions with a focus on disability discrimination claims that may
- [NYPD reverses decision to end marijuana testing for officers](https://gp1.com/nypd-reverses-decision-to-end-of-marijuana-testing-for-officers/) - The New York Police Department (NYPD) announced this week it would no longer randomly test police officers or job applicants for marijuana, but then did an immediate about-face the same day. Talk about buzz-kill! An initial memo, written by the department's deputy commissioner for legal affairs, said the new policy would align with state labor
- [New hires need not be paid for time related to drug screening, according to court](https://gp1.com/new-hires-need-not-be-paid-for-time-related-to-drug-screening-according-to-court/) - Excerpted from an HR Dive Blog by Laurel Kalser California law doesn’t require employers to reimburse new hires for their travel expenses or for their time related to a pre-employment drug test, according to a ruling by the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Johnson v. WinCo Foods, LLC, No. 21-55501. WinCo Foods operates
- [OSHA releases Heat Illness Prevention suggestions for employers](https://gp1.com/osha-releases-heat-illness-prevention-suggestions-for-employers/) - It’s not just hot, it’s one of the hottest summers in history! With that in mind, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) started a “Heat Illness Prevention” campaign last week, to include a website and extensive guidance. Here’s a few points to remember. Create a Heat Illness Prevention Plan OSHA recommends employers with workers
- [Whole Foods did not violate Title VII in discipline for “Black Lives Matter” masks](https://gp1.com/whole-foods-did-not-violate-title-vii-in-discipline-for-black-lives-matter-masks/) - In a ruling on June 28, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the First Circuit found that Whole Foods grocery markets did not engage in racial discrimination when it disciplined employees for wearing “Black Lives Matter” masks while at work. The court stated there was a plausible non-discriminatory reason for its actions, which was to
- [CFPB issues advisory to protect privacy when companies compile personal data](https://gp1.com/cfpb-issues-advisory-to-protect-privacy-when-companies-compile-personal-data/) - Excerpted from a Consumer Financial Protection Post On July 7, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) issued a legal interpretation to ensure that companies that use and share credit reports and background reports have a permissible purpose under the Fair Credit Reporting Act. The CFPB’s new advisory opinion makes clear that credit reporting companies and
- [The future of Hybrid Working: Full steam ahead?](https://gp1.com/the-future-of-hybrid-working-full-steam-ahead/) - Excerpted from a Seyfarth Shaw LLP Blog by Paul Whinder and Verity Musselwhite Steel As various restrictions put in place during the COVID-19 pandemic have lifted across the world, many businesses have embraced hybrid working. As we look to the future, are these new arrangements here to stay? Did businesses really embrace hybrid working? When
- [U.S. Supreme Court rejects cases seeking workers’ comp for medical marijuana](https://gp1.com/u-s-supreme-court-rejects-cases-seeking-workers-comp-for-medical-marijuana/) - Excerpted from a Duane Morris LLP Blog by Emily Meehan The U.S. Supreme Court declined to hear two cases challenging Minnesota’s denial of workers’ compensation for medical marijuana used to treat work injuries. Two Minnesota employees, Susan Musta, who suffered a neck injury while working as a dental hygienist and Daniel Bierbach, who was injured
- [Trulieve pays $60,500 lawsuit settlement due to background check violations](https://gp1.com/trulieve-pays-60500-lawsuit-settlement-due-to-background-check-violations/) - Excerpted from a Top Class Actions Blog Trulieve, a Florida-based cannabis dispensary that sells marijuana products, agreed this week to pay $60,500 to resolve a class action lawsuit that claims it violated the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) with unlawful background checks. The settlement benefits Trulieve applicants and employees who suffered from adverse employment action
- [Nursing homes could get access to US background check data with proposed bill](https://gp1.com/nursing-homes-could-get-access-to-us-background-check-data-with-proposed-bill/) - Excerpted from a Seniors Matter Blog by Nicolas Telep Nursing homes could soon have access to a U.S. government data bank to help with background checks for potential employees if a bill recently introduced in Congress passes. Last week, two U.S. Senators reintroduced a bill proposing nursing homes be allowed to use the National Practitioner
- [U.S. Supreme Court overturns Roe: What this decision means for employers](https://gp1.com/u-s-supreme-court-overturns-roe-what-this-decision-means-for-employers/) - Excerpted from a Jackson Lewis PC Blog by Patricia Anderson Pryor, Joy Napier-Joyce, Melissa Ostrower and Tasos Paindiris As many expected based on the draft leaked months ago, the U.S. Supreme Court has held the U.S. Constitution does not protect the right to obtain an abortion, Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization, No. 19-1392 (June
- [GroupOne webinar “HR Challenges During a WEIRD 2022” has been posted online!](https://gp1.com/groupone-webinar-hr-challenges-during-a-weird-2022-has-been-posted-online/) - Just how strange has the past year been? Well, you can find out during GroupOne Background Screening’s webinar “HR Challenges During A WEIRD 2022.” Originally broadcast on June 9, the webinar has now been posted online. This complimentary event was an interactive panel discussion with four GroupOne HR executives with a combined 100 years of
- [Think again on cybersecurity training - human error continues to drive attacks](https://gp1.com/think-again-on-cybersecurity-training-human-error-continues-to-drive-attacks/) - Excerpted from a Taft Stettinius & Hollister LLP Blog by Kristin Hardy You might think your run-of-the-mill cybersecurity training is sufficient. You might think that by “checking the box” on generic training you have fulfilled your obligation to mitigate data and cybersecurity attacks. You might think that general malware protection adequately secures your company’s data
- [“Clean Slate” laws are taking hold: Colorado joins list](https://gp1.com/clean-slate-laws-are-taking-hold-colorado-joins-list/) - Excerpted from an HR Morning Blog by Tom D’Agostino Colorado has joined a growing list of states that have passed what are known as “Clean Slate” laws, lending momentum to a trend that is likely to see additional states follow suit. Gov. Jared Polis signed Colorado’s Clean Slate Act into law at the end of
- [The modern approach to employee screening, vetting and background checks](https://gp1.com/the-modern-approach-to-employee-screening-vetting-and-background-checks/) - Excerpted from a Security Blog by Russ Law Employee misconduct is a big problem that is too often ignored. Counterproductive work behavior costs U.S. companies $200 billion per year, and the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners estimates that fraud alone costs a company 5% of its revenue per year. Bring this up in front of
- [Workplace Harassment in a Virtual World](https://gp1.com/workplace-harassment-in-a-virtual-world/) - Excerpted from a State Bar of Wisconsin Blog by Catarina Colon, Erik Eisenmann and Tracey O’Brien Can an employee in a virtual environment be harassed? Many individuals are familiar with online video games that permit players to play and communicate with others online while seated at their Xbox. Augmented Realty (AR) games superimpose a digital
- [GroupOne webinar "HR Challenges During a WEIRD 2022" is just two days away!](https://gp1.com/groupone-webinar-hr-challenges-during-a-weird-2022-is-just-two-days-away/) - Just how strange has the past year been? Well, you’ll find out during GroupOne Background Screening’s webinar “HR Challenges During a WEIRD 2022” in just two days this Thursday, June 9 from 2:00-3:00 p.m., CST. This complimentary event will be an interactive panel discussion with four GroupOne HR executives with a combined 100 years of
- [How to assist employees struggling after the nation’s mass shootings](https://gp1.com/how-to-assist-employees-struggling-after-the-nations-mass-shootings/) - The high-profile mass shootings in the U.S. over the past month – the school shooting in Uvalde, Texas, and the grocery store killings in Buffalo – are the latest distressing events for Americans during an era defined by COVID-19, the Ukraine war and economic uncertainty. With this mess of traumatic events potentially contributing to employees’
- [GroupOne enjoys life in the fast lane as part of Accio Data race team!](https://gp1.com/groupone-enjoys-life-in-the-fast-lane-as-part-of-accio-data-race-team/) - As exciting as the roar of “Days of Thunder,” it’s checkered flag or crash for GroupOne Background Screening! Over the past several months, GroupOne’s logo has been proudly displayed on the professional race car owned by Accio Data. A partner since 2014, Accio Data provides GroupOne the platform for its background checks, screening solutions, student
- [GroupOne webinar “HR Challenges During a WEIRD 2022” is just one week away!](https://gp1.com/groupone-webinar-hr-challenges-during-a-weird-2022-is-one-week-away/) - Just how strange has the past year been? Well, you’ll find out during GroupOne Background Screening’s webinar “HR Challenges During a WEIRD 2022” in just one week on Thursday, June 9 from 2:00-3:00 p.m., CST. This complimentary event will be an interactive panel discussion with four GroupOne HR executives with a combined 100 years of
- [Louisiana teachers could have to pay for additional criminal background check](https://gp1.com/louisiana-teachers-could-have-to-pay-for-additional-criminal-background-check/) - Excerpted from an Louisiana Illuminator post by JC Canicosa Right now, Louisiana K-12 teachers are required to undergo a single criminal background check for their teaching certificate and during the hiring process. They may soon have to go through a subsequent review, paid for partially out of their own pockets. House Bill 156, authored by
- [Court rules applicants don’t have right to explain accurate background checks under FCRA](https://gp1.com/court-rules-applicants-dont-have-right-to-explain-accurate-background-checks-under-fcra/) - Excerpted from an SHRM blog by Roy Maurer Employers covered under the 8th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals are not necessarily required under federal law to provide job applicants with criminal convictions a chance to explain a negative background check report before rescinding a job offer. A unanimous three-judge panel of the court ruled May
- [Fair Credit Reporting Act compliance: New court opinion clarifies stand-alone disclosure](https://gp1.com/fair-credit-reporting-act-compliance-new-court-opinion-clarifies-stand-alone-disclosure/) - Excerpted from an Atkinson Andelson Loya Ruud & Romo blog by Iris Kristoff, Jennifer Grock and Jonathan Judge The federal Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) permits background checks for employment purposes, so long as employers obtain authorization from and provide the appropriate “stand-alone” disclosure to the applicant or employee regarding the background check. Willful violations
- [GroupOne webinar “HR Challenges During a WEIRD 2022” set for June 9!](https://gp1.com/groupone-webinar-hr-challenges-during-a-weird-2022-set-for-june-9/) - Just how strange has the past year been? Well, you’ll find out during GroupOne Background Screening’s webinar “HR Challenges During a WEIRD 2022” on Thursday, June 9 from 2:00-3:00 p.m., CST. This complimentary event will be an interactive panel discussion with four GroupOne HR executives with a combined 100 years of experience! Speakers will include
- [Background check policy at Department of Recreation gets closer look](https://gp1.com/background-check-policy-at-department-of-recreation-gets-closer-look/) - Excerpted from a WTOP News Post by Kate Ryan While Montgomery County’s Department of Recreation near Baltimore carries out required criminal background checks on its employees, the department lacks formal policies regarding those records, according to a report from the county’s inspector general (OIG). Inspector General Megan Davey Limarzi said the department carries out the
- [GroupOne to host June 9 webinar “HR Challenges During a WEIRD 2022”](https://gp1.com/groupone-to-host-june-9-webinar-hr-challenges-during-a-weird-2022/) - Just how strange has the past year been? Well, you’ll find out during GroupOne Background Screening’s webinar “HR Challenges During a WEIRD 2022” on Thursday, June 9 from 2:00-3:00 p.m., CST. This complimentary event will be an interactive panel discussion with four GroupOne HR executives with a combined 100 years of experience! Speakers will include
- [Reminders for employers after employee is awarded $450,000 for unwanted birthday party](https://gp1.com/reminders-for-employers-after-employee-is-awarded-450000-for-unwanted-birthday-party/) - Excerpted from a Levenfeld Pearlstein LLC Blog A jury recently awarded a Kentucky man $450,000 after his employer threw him a surprise birthday party against his wishes, and then terminated him for how he reacted. The employee had an anxiety disorder and had asked the office manager not to celebrate his birthday because it would
- [Hemp-infused drinks could potentially cause soldiers to fail drug tests](https://gp1.com/hemp-infused-drinks-could-potentially-cause-soldiers-to-fail-drug-tests/) - We ran across an interesting story this week involving a Rockstar energy drink potentially causing soldiers to fail drug tests. The new PepsiCo drinks, dubbed “Rockstar Unplugged,” are infused with hemp seed oil as well as B vitamins, spearmint and lemon balm. “A single use of some hemp products may result in a positive drug
- [U.S. Department of Justice provides employer guidance on opioid addiction and the ADA](https://gp1.com/u-s-department-of-justice-provides-employer-guidance-on-opioid-addiction-and-the-ada/) - Excerpted from a Shawe Rosenthal LLP Blog by Fiona W. Ong In the context of the opioid crisis, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has issued Q&A guidance on how the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) may apply to those in treatment for or recovery from opioid use disorder (OUD). The DOJ makes several points
- [Top-5 ways to build a diverse and inclusive company culture](https://gp1.com/top-5-ways-to-build-a-diverse-and-inclusive-company-culture/) - Excerpted from a JAMS Blog by Joanna Saint Louis Diversity, equity and inclusion (DE&I) is a clear business differentiator. It has never been more critical, particularly in light of the pandemic which has brought about a mass exodus of professionals leaving their jobs. In the face of this challenge, companies that have built inclusive cultures
- [Arizona strengthens background check requirements for nursing home employees](https://gp1.com/arizona-strengthens-background-check-requirements-for-nursing-home-employees/) - Excerpted from a National Law Review article by Nonnie L. Shivers and Aaron S. Nava On March 18, Arizona Governor Doug Ducey signed 19 bills into law, including, most notably for nursing home and assisted living facility employers, Senate Bill (SB) 1242, which strengthens employee background checks. In his press release, Governor Ducey explained that
- [Extraordinary workplace misconduct: Celebrating you is a piece of cake…](https://gp1.com/extraordinary-workplace-misconduct-celebrating-you-is-a-piece-of-cake/) - Excerpted from a Shawe Rosenthal LLP blog by Garrick Ross and Fiona W. Wong In the latest entry in our series on extraordinary workplace misconduct, we must come to terms with the fact that not everyone loves birthdays or surprises. And, when an employee tells you that they don’t want a surprise birthday party, you’d
- [Background screening for manufacturers 101 – What to look for!](https://gp1.com/background-screening-for-manufacturers-101-what-to-look-for/) - Employees for manufacturing companies are involved in so much of what our country produces on a daily basis. That’s a heavy responsibility and manufacturers need to know their employees are reliable and safe. A good background check should satisfy all of the above and just as importantly, ensure a hiring decision does not cause liability.
- [I’m headed to Luckenbach! California to consider adoption of four-day workweek](https://gp1.com/im-headed-to-luckenbach-california-to-consider-adoption-of-four-day-workweek/) - We read last week about a new bill being proposed by California Assembly members Cristina Garcia and Evan Low to make the state's official workweek 32 hours for companies with 500 or more employees. Assembly Bill 2932 proposes to make a four-day workweek the new norm in California for non-exempt employees. In addition, any work
- [What employers need to know about workplace recordings](https://gp1.com/what-employers-need-to-know-about-workplace-recordings/) - Excerpted from a Phelps Dunbar LLP blog by Jason A. Pill Almost everyone these days has a mobile recording device in their pocket. Employees can record employers, employers can record employees, and employers can record their customers at the touch of a button. But legal and business risks can arise when people don’t know they
- [The Prison Credential Dilemma](https://gp1.com/the-prison-credential-dilemma/) - Excerpted from The Crime Report article by Charlotte West Since Terrance Simon got out of the Louisiana State Penitentiary last year, he’s mentally prepared himself for the fact his record might mean he doesn’t get the job when talking to employers. “I go into a job interview with the mindset they’re going to know, and
- [Trends in paternity leave in the U.S.](https://gp1.com/trends-in-paternity-leave-in-the-u-s/) - Excerpted from a Spilman Thomas & Battle PLLC blog by Chelsea Thompson Parental leave was, once again, in the forefront of public discourse as the internet debated the appropriateness of Parag Agrawal, the CEO of Twitter, announcing his intention to take “a few weeks” off work following the birth of his second child. While much
- [Louisiana bus system says drug testing applies to drivers, not bosses](https://gp1.com/louisiana-bus-system-says-drug-testing-applies-to-drivers-not-bosses/) - We ran across this story last week involving the drug testing policy of the Baton Rouge, Louisiana bus system Capital Area Transit System (CATS). Over the past several years, CATS has enforced a “zero-tolerance drug policy,” which is to be expected when men and women are responsible for driving residents across the community. But should
- [The complications of adding background checks to dating apps](https://gp1.com/the-complications-of-adding-background-checks-to-dating-apps/) - Excerpted from a Marketplace Podcast by Kimberly Adams Last week, Tinder rolled out a new feature that allows users to pay $2.50 to check if matches have certain types of criminal records associated with a sex offender registry, arrests or convictions for “violent or harmful behavior.” The company partnered with public record aggregator Garbo to
- [Don’t fire me! It was CBD! Indiana Court examines termination for hemp oil](https://gp1.com/dont-fire-me-it-was-cbd-indiana-court-examines-termination-for-hemp-oil/) - Excerpted from a Bradley Arant Boult Cummings LLP blog by Anne Yuengert, J. William Manuel and Whitt Steineker In our modern world of a booming CBD industry and an increasing number of states with legalized marijuana, can you terminate an employee for a positive drug test for marijuana? What if the test shows marijuana metabolites
- [Managers declare WFH is over, as 77% say they’d fire or cut pay for not coming back to office](https://gp1.com/managers-declare-wfh-is-over-as-77-say-theyd-fire-or-cut-pay-for-not-coming-back-to-office/) - Excerpted from a Fortune article by Megan Leonhardt Working from home. It was fun while it lasted? About three out of five managers believe that remote work is on the wane and workers will be back in the office full-time by the end of this year. And they’re apparently prepared to use some tough tactics
- [Workforce drug test positivity climbs to highest level in two decades](https://gp1.com/workforce-drug-test-positivity-climbs-to-highest-level-in-two-decades/) - Excerpted from a Seyfarth Shaw LLP Blog by Adam Young, A. Scott Hecker and Craig Simonsen In 2021, positive drug test results among America’s workforce reached its highest rate since 2001, up more than 30% in the U.S. according to a new analysis released by Quest Diagnostics. Employers face mounting challenges relating to employee drug
- [GroupOne hosting booth at Oklahoma HR Conference!](https://gp1.com/groupone-hosting-booth-at-oklahoma-hr-conference/) - Our own David Graves is hosting a GroupOne Background Screening booth during the OKHR State Conference, April 4-7 at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Tulsa, Oklahoma. A hard-rocking guy himself, David will be available to discuss the many advantages of GroupOne’s services including pre-employment screening, post-employment screening, verification and drug screening. The Conference
- [Workplace issues on “the slap heard ’round the world”](https://gp1.com/workplace-issues-on-the-slap-heard-round-the-world/) - Simply called “the slap heard ‘round the world” or “the slap,” what happened during the 94th Annual Academy Awards on Sunday, March 27 has quickly entered the everlasting terminology of notorious cultural history. A quick recap – since we suspect you’ve already read this hundreds of times – Will Smith unexpectedly stormed the stage after
- [Survey finds businesses relaxing hiring standards](https://gp1.com/survey-finds-businesses-relaxing-hiring-standards/) - Excerpted from a Journal Review article Hard-pressed to find dependable, qualified people to fill jobs, many companies are relaxing standards and hiring applicants they would not have considered in the past. That’s according to findings of a recent national survey of business hiring managers commissioned by Oklahoma City-based Express Employment Professionals. The survey, conducted by
- [Just why do pre-employment background checks exist?](https://gp1.com/just-why-do-pre-employment-background-checks-exist/) - How can you be absolutely certain your potential hire is honest and trustworthy? At the very least, how can you determine the applicant is the person they say they are? For over three decades at GroupOne Background Screening, easing such concerns has been our mission. A pre-employment background check plays a crucial role in allowing
- [Can job-screening companies ask about medical history?](https://gp1.com/can-job-screening-companies-ask-about-medical-history/) - Excerpted from a Governing.Com Blog by Bob Egelko California bars employers from asking job applicants about their physical or mental health, at least until they've been offered a job. But an occupational health company requires job-seekers with thousands of California businesses to disclose, for example, whether they've had venereal disease, diarrhea, constipation or menstrual problems.
- [Continuous employment background checks – ethical questions for HR?](https://gp1.com/continuous-employment-background-checks-ethical-questions-for-hr/) - The use of post-employment background checks for continuous monitoring is trending upward. With police records becoming digital, employers can oftentimes learn of an employee's arrest soon after booking. But does the use of such technology raise ethical questions for employers, perhaps too reminiscent of George Orwell’s “Big Brother?” Today, it’s estimated 93% of companies across
- [Time to “construct” new social media policies](https://gp1.com/time-to-construct-new-social-media-policies/) - Excerpted from a Peckar & Abramson PC Blog by Aaron C. Schlesinger, Lauren Rayner Davis and Jennifer Harris Social media has significantly impacted all facets of society, especially the way people communicate. TikTok is one of the world’s most popular platforms today, with over one billion active users monthly. Social media can be used to
- [OSHA announces highly focused healthcare facility inspection plan](https://gp1.com/osha-announces-highly-focused-healthcare-facility-inspection-plan/) - Excerpted from a Littler Mendelson PC Blog by Alka Ramchandani-Raj, Yvette V. Gatling and Mary Lockhart The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recently announced in a memorandum it will proceed with a highly focused, short-term initiative directed at general medical and surgical hospitals, psychiatric and substance abuse hospitals, and skilled nursing and assisted living
- [Employer didn’t discriminate when rejecting applicant with domestic violence conviction](https://gp1.com/employer-didnt-discriminate-when-rejecting-applicant-with-domestic-violence-conviction/) - Excerpted from a Wisconsin Examiner article by Erik Gunn A Racine, Wisconsin manufacturer acted reasonably when it withdrew a job offer from an applicant convicted of domestic violence, the state Supreme Court ruled Thursday. In a 4-3 decision, Justice Jill Karofsky stated that the company Cree Lighting didn’t discriminate unlawfully when it rescinded its offer
- [Federal court reminder of litigation risk arising from background screening](https://gp1.com/federal-court-reminder-of-litigation-risk-arising-from-background-screening/) - Excerpted from a National Law Review Blog In a recent decision from North Carolina, a federal court found a plaintiff in a Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) case to have “Article III” standing to bring his claims in federal court. The ruling relied on the Supreme Court’s ruling in the Ramirez case last year and
- [EEOC (again) updates religious accommodation and vaccine mandate guidance](https://gp1.com/eeoc-again-updates-religious-accommodation-and-vaccine-mandate-guidance/) - Excerpted from a Minta Blog by Corbin Carter and Danielle M. Bereznay The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has once again updated its guidance and answers regarding the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic’s interaction with anti-discrimination laws. This guidance, updated on March 1, 2022, provides additional detail to Section L (Vaccinations – Title VII and Religious
- [New bill could hopefully reduce delay in background checks](https://gp1.com/new-bill-could-hopefully-reduce-delay-in-background-checks/) - With our high standards for accuracy here at GroupOne Background Screening, our detective work can be difficult. So, we were pleased to learn about a proposed bill in California which could resolve the issue of redacted birth dates (DOB) and driver’s license numbers. In a ruling last year in the California Court of Appeals case
- [Things may not be rational, but we can still check international!](https://gp1.com/things-may-not-be-rational-but-we-can-still-check-international/) - In Europe, it has been a trying time over the past two weeks with the war raging in Ukraine, and we offer our daily prayers to both citizens and soldiers alike. But in today’s workforce, international job applicants are more common than ever before. No matter the world’s difficulties, international background checks have become more
- [Men with criminal records could help solve the U.S. labor shortage](https://gp1.com/men-with-criminal-records-could-help-solve-the-u-s-labor-shortage/) - Excerpted from The Press of Atlantic City article by Shawn Bushway and Jeffrey Wenger American employers are panicked about the lack of willing workers. They shouldn’t be. There are plenty of Americans who want to work. If you’re an employer, you may be wondering where all these employees are hiding. They aren’t hiding — they’ve
- [When drug testing, manufacturers should consider employee use of prescriptions](https://gp1.com/when-drug-testing-manufacturers-should-consider-employee-use-of-prescriptions/) - Coming up on the two-year anniversary of the COVID-19 pandemic, it should not come as a surprise drug use has surged in the U.S. According to a report last month by the American Medical Association, there has been a sharp increase in drug use and overdose deaths during the pandemic. It’s been a stressful time.
- [Employers can't hold arrest records against job seekers if no conviction, proposal says](https://gp1.com/employers-cant-hold-arrest-records-against-job-seekers-if-no-conviction-proposal-says/) - Excerpted from The Gainesville Sun article by John Henderson Businesses in Gainesville, Florida with 15 or more employees would not be able to reject a job applicant based on their past arrests under a new law proposed by city officials. The City Commission has directed its legal team to draft a “fair chance hiring” ordinance
- [To test or not to test: Considerations for employers pondering cannabis testing](https://gp1.com/to-test-or-not-to-test-considerations-for-employers-pondering-cannabis-testing/) - Excerpted from a Seyfarth Shaw LLP blog by Jennifer L. Mora The latest Gallup poll shows 68% of Americans support cannabis legalization. Further, the rate of positive cannabis test results has jumped in the last decade. According to recent news reports, some large employers have stopped testing applicants for cannabis. As a result, other employers
- [2 additional reasons a background check might be delayed](https://gp1.com/2-additional-reasons-a-background-check-might-be-delayed/) - The debate continues! Here at GroupOne Background Screening, we are thankful to have such a skilled and experienced team. As stated in a blog last month, inspired by a series of Artic cold fronts hitting our community, we began considering reasons a background check might be delayed. Two more were added to the list. Please
- [Data Minimization: What is it and why practice it?](https://gp1.com/data-minimization-what-is-it-and-why-practice-it/) - Excerpted from a JD Supra Blog The European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) first launched the concept of data minimization, which states that a data controller should limit the collection of personal information to what is directly relevant and necessary to accomplish a specified purpose. This seems like a simple concept: an entity should
- [Ukraine War is causing some workers severe anxiety – employers can help](https://gp1.com/ukraine-war-is-causing-some-workers-severe-anxiety-employers-can-help/) - Excerpted from an SHRM Blog by Stephen Miller The Russian invasion of Ukraine and the spiraling humanitarian crisis has captured attention worldwide. Concern over the tragedy is understandable, but employers should also be aware that for some workers, the levels of stress and depression associated with constant news updates can be severe enough to require
- [Did you like the Super Bowl halftime show? Varied reactions underscore generational differences in the workforce](https://gp1.com/did-you-like-the-super-bowl-halftime-show-varied-reactions-underscore-generational-differences-in-the-workforce/) - Excerpted from a Mondaq blog by Marilyn G. Moran The Super Bowl halftime show was viewed by over 29 million households and featured a lineup of 90’s hip-hop royalty, including Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Mary J. Blige and Eminem. Soon after the show aired, Facebook and Twitter feeds began filling up with comments about whether
- [Nurse tech lawsuit claiming patient harassment fails in court](https://gp1.com/nurse-tech-lawsuit-claiming-patient-harassment-fails-in-court/) - Excerpted from a Constangy Brooks Smith and Prophete LLP blog by Jeff Champ In determining what counts as harassment in the workplace, context matters. That’s the takeaway from a recent decision from the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit, affirming the dismissal of a lawsuit brought by a nurse technician who alleged she
- [Supreme Court nomination process calls attention to background checks when hiring workers](https://gp1.com/supreme-court-nomination-process-calls-attention-to-background-checks-when-hiring-workers/) - Excerpted from a Forbes article by Edward Segal News that background checks have been completed for four of President Joe Biden’s potential nominees for the U.S. Supreme Court is calling attention to the importance of employment background checks in the private sector and how they can help prevent a crisis for companies and organizations. Joseph
- [GroupOne’s Web Verify – Fast, Free and Secure](https://gp1.com/groupones-web-verify-fast-free-and-secure/) - Here at GroupOne Background Screening, we know that in today’s uncertain times, providing VOEs may be difficult. Many offices are closed. Employees are working remotely. Turnaround times are mired in confusion. Please know GroupOne is dedicated to make your professional life easier and more secure. We are proud to announce WebVerify, an advanced tool designed
- [Congress passes bill to end forced arbitration in sexual misconduct cases](https://gp1.com/congress-passes-bill-to-end-forced-arbitration-in-sexual-misconduct-cases/) - As we write, a bill that prohibits mandatory arbitration of sexual assault and sexual harassment claims is traveling from the House and Senate to President Biden’s desk for his signature. It appears likely the President will sign the bill due to a statement issued by his office earlier this month confirming his support of the
- [How does HR resemble a football team?](https://gp1.com/how-does-hr-resemble-a-football-team/) - Excerpted from an HR C-Suite blog by Philip Espinosa Well, for starters, it is all about the team. I can’t think of any football team that ever won the season based on the efforts of a single player. From start to finish, each play requires participation from all members of the team. Yes, an exceptional
- [Lowe’s hit with class action over alleged use of consumer reports for employment decisions](https://gp1.com/lowes-hit-with-class-action-over-alleged-use-of-consumer-reports-for-employment-decisions/) - Excerpted from a Class Action blog by Erin Shaak Lowe’s Companies, Inc. faces a proposed class action that claims the home improvement retailer has unlawfully used job applicants’ consumer reports to make adverse employment decisions without first providing them with a copy of the report. The case out of North Carolina claims Lowe’s use of
- [Employee social media complaints: Employers beware!](https://gp1.com/employee-social-media-complaints-employers-beware/) - Excerpted from a Barnes and Thornburg LLP blog by Thomas C. Payne The National Labor Relations Board’s new general counsel, the top prosecutor who oversees all offices, signaled an intention to expand the types of employee conduct that might qualify as protected activity. A recent memorandum from the counsel’s Division of Advice doubles down on
- [Portland Fund to expand grant reviews but won’t require background checks](https://gp1.com/portland-fund-to-expand-grant-reviews-but-wont-require-background-checks/) - Excerpted from an OPB post by Monica Samayoa The Portland Clean Energy Fund will add an additional review phase for grant applications but will not require background checks despite the withdrawal of a $12 million grant earlier this month. Last week, the first-of-its-kind environmental justice program added extra steps to its grant review process to
- [Brace for impact - 5 reasons a background check might be delayed](https://gp1.com/brace-for-impact-5-reasons-your-background-check-might-be-delayed/) - Traumatized is probably too soft a word when describing our reaction to the famous Weather Storm Uri which slammed into Texas on February 13, 2021. Well, almost one year later winter is coming yet again, and we’re bracing for impact! A huge Artic cold front is expected to roll into Texas today with 48 hours
- [Criminal history may soon be actual history](https://gp1.com/criminal-history-may-soon-be-actual-history/) - Excerpted from a Riverdale Press story by Joseph De La Cruz Background checks can make or break someone. Especially if that someone has a criminal history. Such checks may already cost people jobs and maybe even loans. But a new piece of legislation in front of the Riverdale City Council in New York could take
- [HR Survey participation for 2022 to begin in February](https://gp1.com/hr-survey-participation-for-2022-to-begin-in-february/) - It’s survey time at GroupOne Background Screening with three annual HR surveys conducted from February 1-28. The annual Pay Practices Survey and Benefit Practices Survey provide valuable benchmarking data in Texas. Participation is free and reports are available for $225 a survey. If you choose not to participate, you may still purchase the surveys for
- [NJ law requires employers to warn employees about vehicle tracking devices](https://gp1.com/nj-law-requires-employers-to-warn-employees-about-vehicle-tracking-devices/) - “Big Brother is watching you,” as George Orwell stated in his classic novel “1984.” Well, here we are in 2022 and we suppose Big Brother is indeed keeping an eye on employees, but recent laws now make it difficult to do so in secret. Here at GroupOne Background Screening, we understand vehicle tracking devices provide
- [Have no regrets - run GroupOne ReChecks!](https://gp1.com/have-no-regrets-run-groupone-rechecks/) - Did you know 33% of employees admit to stealing money from employers and that 30% of business failures are related to employee theft? And this is after pre-employment screening! While pre-employment screening is critical in protecting companies, post-employment screening conducted at intervals during an employee’s tenure is equally important when protecting your company. One-time background
- [Trend: New Hampshire Court rules on reasonable accommodation for medical marijuana](https://gp1.com/trend-new-hampshire-court-rules-on-reasonable-accommodations-for-medical-marijuana/) - Is your company required to accommodate employee medical marijuana use? If you’re established in Texas, probably not. But a legal trend in the U.S. is growing by the year. One such example is in New Hampshire. On January 14, 2022, the New Hampshire Supreme Court reversed a court decision that initially dismissed a former employee’s
- [Avoid company tragedy by preparing for disasters and emergencies](https://gp1.com/avoid-company-tragedy-by-preparing-for-disasters-and-emergencies/) - While extreme weather and nature events are nothing new in the history of mankind, over the past year we’ve been hit with more than our fair share. Just last Friday, the massive eruption of a volcano near the South Pacific island of Tonga was so extensive it could be seen by astronauts from the Space
- [Top 5 reasons people are quitting during the “Great Resignation”](https://gp1.com/top-5-reasons-people-are-quitting-during-the-great-resignation/) - Excerpted from an INC. post by Jessica Stillman There have been endless think pieces written about what exactly is driving the "Great Resignation." Is it people leaving to start their own business? Is it fed-up, low-wage workers using new leverage to demand better treatment? Or is it professionals who can afford to be choosy? There
- [Escalation in the workplace – it can happen anywhere](https://gp1.com/escalation-in-the-workplace-it-can-happen-anywhere/) - In the words of “Anchorman” Ron Burgundy, “Boy, that escalated quickly.” While we admit NFL football and a dollar will likely not even get you a cup of coffee at Starbuck’s, a couple of on-field incidents provide a great example of escalation in the workplace. In a Washington Football Team game with the Dallas Cowboys
- [Background Screening and Drug Testing 101, Winter Edition](https://gp1.com/background-screening-and-drug-testing-101-winter-edition/) - We all remember the dreaded “101” courses in college, essential back-to-basics drudgery involving English, history and science. But here at GroupOne Background Screening, we believe education is a good thing. So to start off 2022, let’s talk basics! Oftentimes, our team is asked if there are restrictions against background checks and does it make a
- [Harris County, Texas will no longer ask about criminal history on job applications](https://gp1.com/harris-county-texas-will-no-longer-ask-about-criminal-history-on-job-applications/) - Excerpted from a Houston Public Media Blog by Andrew Schneider Harris County leaders on January 4 adopted a policy that will ban most county departments from asking about a job applicant's criminal history. County Attorney Christian Menefee — who proposed the program — called this "banning the box," a reference to the box on county
- [Burnout among employees during pandemic challenges bosses](https://gp1.com/burnout-among-employees-during-pandemic-challenges-bosses/) - Excerpted from a Carpenter Wellington PLLC Blog More workers have reported a deterioration of their mental health and feelings of burnout since the pandemic began. According to a September 2021 study, more than half the workers surveyed reported a decline in their mental health since the beginning of the pandemic. The pandemic has blurred the
- [‘Ban the Box’ hiring law now applies to U.S. Federal Contracts](https://gp1.com/ban-the-box-hiring-law-now-applies-to-u-s-federal-contracts/) - Excerpted from a Bloomberg Law Blog by Paige Smith Federal contractors no longer can inquire about an applicant’s criminal history before extending a conditional job offer to work on a government contract, a new prohibition that stems from a Trump-era defense policy law. The restriction, tucked into the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal 2020,
- [New guidance provided by CDC on COVID-19 quarantine and isolation](https://gp1.com/new-guidance-provided-by-cdc-on-covid-19-quarantine-and-isolation/) - We can never have too much information when it comes to COVID-19 safety, though we’ll be the first to admit a weariness when discussing the endless pandemic after two years. No matter, safety is paramount for our employees. On December 27, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provided new guidance on recommended quarantine
- [5 HR challenges for 2022](https://gp1.com/5-hr-challenges-for-2022/) - Excerpted from a Benefits Pro Blog by Sandy Kaminski In the past 18 months, things have changed faster than anyone could have anticipated. COVID-19, the social landscape and technological advancements have turned the world upside down. HR managers have been thrown into the midst of national cultural changes and economic currents while trying to find
- [Substance abuse has increased during the pandemic and remote work](https://gp1.com/substance-abuse-has-increased-during-the-pandemic-and-remote-work/) - Excerpted from an SHRM Blog by Lin Grensing-Pophal When COVID-19 emerged in early 2020, millions of employees suddenly found themselves working from home—and many will likely continue to do so for the foreseeable future. It's a situation that benefits many but has a dangerous potential downside for others. Amid the pandemic, mental health and substance
- [Yes, Virginia, COVID-19 can be a disability](https://gp1.com/yes-virginia-covid-19-can-be-a-disability/) - Excerpted from an hilarious Constangy Brooks Smith & Prophere LLP blog by the incomparable Robin Shea “Some of my little friends say that COVID-19 is not protected by the Americans with Disabilities Act. Please tell me the truth; is COVID-19 an ADA-protected disability?" -- VIRGINIA O'HANLON Virginia, your little friends are wrong. They have been
- [‘Tis the season for layoffs – maybe the message should have been delivered differently?](https://gp1.com/tis-the-season-for-layoffs-maybe-the-message-should-have-been-delivered-differently/) - ‘Tis the season for layoffs? Here at GroupOne Background Screening, we certainly hope not. You've probably heard this story, but according to several national news sources, the CEO of the mortgage company Better.com laid off 900 employees on December 1. With the holidays rapidly approaching, such timing is questionable to say the least. The reduction
- [Can ‘clean slate’ laws really erase criminal records from public view?](https://gp1.com/can-clean-slate-laws-really-erase-criminal-records-from-public-view/) - Excerpted from a Sacramento Bee story by Miranda S. Spivack Anyone who has used a dating app knows the value of an Internet search before showing up for coffee. So do employers and landlords, who will scroll on their own for insights and information they may have missed in an interview, or that a formal
- [New lawsuit serves as reminder of new trend in employer grooming policies](https://gp1.com/new-lawsuit-serves-as-reminder-of-new-trend-in-employer-grooming-policies/) - The old saying “Get a haircut kid,” may have been popular during the 1960s, but today it could cause problems in the workplace. A suit filed last week in San Diego Superior Court is believed to be one of the first lawsuits in U.S. history involving the CROWN Act. The CROWN Act, which stands for
- [EEOC update: Artificial intelligence and discrimination](https://gp1.com/eeoc-update-artificial-intelligence-and-discrimination/) - Excerpted from a Venable LLP blog by Thomas H. Strong and Robin L.S. Burroughs On October 28, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) announced an initiative to ensure the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in hiring and employment decisions complies with federal civil rights laws. The EEOC says the initiative will guide applicants, employees,
- [New Year’s Resolution Solution for 2022!](https://gp1.com/new-years-resolution-solution-for-2022/) - As we head into the New Year, you may be thinking about upcoming HR initiatives to tackle in 2022. Background screening may not be your number one priority. But hiring great employees who provide the best skills for your organization is. GroupOne would like to be your partner in 2022 to help vet new employees
- [Is the customer always right? How employers should respond to patron misconduct](https://gp1.com/is-the-customer-always-right-how-employers-should-respond-to-patron-misconduct/) - Excerpted from a Proskauer blog by Tony Oncidi and Dixie Morrison As anyone who has worked in a customer-facing job can tell you, dealing with difficult customers often comes with the territory. However, when customer behavior crosses a line into illegal conduct like sexual harassment, both the customer and the employer may find themselves in
- [Vaccine-exemption requests putting legal departments in tricky spot](https://gp1.com/vaccine-exemption-requests-putting-legal-departments-in-tricky-spot/) - Excerpted from a McDermott Will & Emery blog by Carole A. Spink In-house legal departments are facing a big challenge: finessing company vaccine-exemption policies to strike the right balance between keeping workforces safe and minimizing exposure to litigation. The issue is coming to the fore as more employers mandate vaccines for their workers. A Gartner
- [Austin Emergency Services no longer disqualifying applicants for prior cannabis use](https://gp1.com/austin-emergency-services-no-longer-disqualifying-applicants-for-prior-cannabis-use/) - In a move which could potentially be a trend in Texas, Austin-Travis County Emergency Medical Services announced last week it would update hiring requirements by removing a disqualification for job candidates who used cannabis products. Previously, the department disqualified candidates who used any form of cannabis to include hemp, THC and legalized medicinal uses within
- [VLOG – GroupOne’s David Graves offers thanks before the holiday season](https://gp1.com/vlog-groupones-david-graves-offers-thanks-before-the-holiday-season/) - GroupOne Background Screening sales associate and HR guru David Graves posted a continuation of his video series today to offer thanks and provide a “GroupOne Fall Report.” Yes indeed, we have much to be thankful for as we approach the coming holiday season. The video is the 20th of a series David plans to post
- [Lawmakers file bill requiring landlords to conduct background checks on apartment employees](https://gp1.com/lawmakers-file-bill-requiring-landlords-to-conduct-background-checks-on-apartment-employees/) - Excerpted from a News 7 Miami story Florida lawmakers have introduced a new bill in honor of 19-year-old Miya Marcano who was killed at her apartment complex in Orlando earlier this year. If passed, the bill, titled “Miya’s Law” would require landlords to conduct background checks for all apartment employees. The bill was introduced by
- [Bill that keeps DOBs on public records passes the Michigan House](https://gp1.com/bill-that-keeps-dobs-on-public-records-passes-the-michigan-house/) - Excerpted from a Huron Daily Tribune story by Angela Mulka A bill that would protect hiring, housing placements and public safety is making its way through the Michigan Legislature. The bill, HB 5368 introduced by Rep. Graham Filler, was passed on Nov. 3 in the Michigan House of Representatives and its purpose is to prohibit
- [House advances legislation addressing Supreme Court rule that puts background checks at risk](https://gp1.com/house-advances-legislation-addressing-supreme-court-rule-that-puts-background-checks-at-risk/) - Excerpted from a Chamber in the News post by Wendy Block The Michigan House of Representatives passed legislation Wednesday that would prevent the Michigan Supreme Court (Court) from implementing a harmful rule that will have significant negative consequences on hiring and housing placements in Michigan. The bill passed by a vote of 69-34. The Court
- [Workplace issues: Is an “Accommodation” forever?](https://gp1.com/workplace-issues-is-an-accommodation-forever/) - Excerpted from a McElroy Deutsch Mulvaney & Carpenter LLP blog by Bernard E. Jacques If an employer grants an accommodation to an employee, can the employer rescind the accommodation as circumstances change? This was the issue raised recently by the Fourth Circuit in its decision in Holmes v. General Dynamics Mission Systems, Incmed. Sheila Holmes
- [In time for Halloween, a return to GroupOne’s spooky webinar “My Top-10 HR Horror Stories”](https://gp1.com/in-time-for-halloween-a-return-to-groupones-spooky-webinar-my-top-10-hr-horror-stories/) - In time for Halloween, GroupOne Background Screening would like to return to March, 2020 when we hosted the spooky webinar “My Top-10 HR Horror Stories.” GroupOne’s David Graves, our sales consultant and an HR soldier for over two decades, served as speaker. If you missed the original broadcast, it is posted on our YouTube channel.
- [Scammers using fake job ads to steal people’s identities](https://gp1.com/scammers-using-fake-job-ads-to-steal-peoples-identities/) - Excerpted from a ProPublica blog by Cezary Podkul It has become a ubiquitous internet ad, with versions popping up everywhere from Facebook and LinkedIn to smaller sites like Jobvertise: Airport shuttle driver wanted, it says, offering a job that involves picking up passengers for 35 hours a week at an appealing weekly pay rate that
- [Lack of housing background checks leads to alleged rapist living on campus](https://gp1.com/lack-of-housing-background-checks-leads-to-alleged-rapist-living-on-campus/) - Excerpted from a University Press story by Kendall Little Eight months before becoming a Florida Atlantic University (FAU) student, Riley Hayes allegedly engaged in sexual intercourse with a 15-year-old girl when she was physically unable to resist, according to the state of New Hampshire. Hayes was 17 at the time. Court records identified his alleged
- [Zoom sued for allegedly mishandling recruitment of DACA recipient](https://gp1.com/zoom-sued-for-allegedly-mishandling-recruitment-of-daca-recipient/) - Excerpted from a Constangy Brooks Smith & Prophete LLP blog by Willard Krasnow Zoom Video Communications, Inc., has been sued for alleged hiring discrimination against a Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program recipient. According to the lawsuit filed by Royer Ramirez Ruiz, Zoom made improper pre-employment inquiries and ultimately rejected him for employment “due
- [Court weighs whether domestic violence can disqualify job-seeker](https://gp1.com/court-weighs-whether-domestic-violence-can-disqualify-job-seeker/) - Excerpted from a Wisconsin Examiner story by Erik Gunn How, when and why can an employer reject a job applicant who has been convicted of domestic violence? Wisconsin Supreme Court justices heard arguments October 15 on that question, in a case testing the state’s fair employment practices law. The law says employers can’t disqualify a
- [Asking applicants for vax status? Not so fast!](https://gp1.com/asking-applicants-for-vax-status-not-so-fast/) - Excerpted from a Constangy Brooks Smith & Prophete LLP blog by Robin Shea There has been a lot in the news lately about job applicants who include their COVID-19 vaccination status on their resumes, employers who ask applicants for that information, and employers who refuse to consider anyone for hire who doesn't include their vaccination
- [In time for Halloween: Hiring producers of your company’s creative work](https://gp1.com/in-time-for-halloween-hiring-producers-of-your-companys-creative-work/) - Excerpted from a Littler Mendelson PC blog by Darren E. Nadel The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit recently held that the creator of the “Friday the 13th” screenplay could terminate his copyright grant to Horror, Inc. (producer of the movie franchise) and reclaim it. The potential “horror show” for employers is that
- [New sex harassment laws: Making for strange bedfellows in construction industry](https://gp1.com/new-sex-harassment-laws-making-for-strange-bedfellows-in-construction-industry/) - Excerpted from a Jackson Lewis PC blog by Victor N. Corpuz In the construction industry, where multiple companies work closely together and where it is more difficult to monitor employee behavior because many employees are in the field, more incidents of inappropriate behavior occur. Texas and California, two states opposite politically and in lawmaking, have
- [Who will win the remote work game of chicken?](https://gp1.com/who-will-win-the-remote-work-game-of-chicken/) - Excerpted from an HR Dive blog by Emilie Shumway As the pandemic drags on, one thing has become clear: most employees really, really like working from home. Dozens of surveys conducted by companies and analytics firms over the past year reveal just how strongly workers feel about the new lifestyle. Nearly half of workers will
- [County wants to help certain offenders clear their criminal records](https://gp1.com/county-wants-to-help-certain-offenders-clear-their-criminal-records/) - Excerpted from a Bucks County Courier Times article by Damon C. Williams For some Bucks County residents, their debt to society isn't truly paid even after they serve their time or meet the other qualifications of their sentence. Their criminal record follows them around for years, even decades. It can prevent them from getting a
- [Pennsylvania court rules private employer may deny exemption request from COVID-19 vaccination](https://gp1.com/pennsylvania-court-rules-private-employer-may-deny-exemption-request-from-covid-19-vaccination/) - Excerpted from a Troutman Pepper blog by Moses M. Tincher and Tracey E. Diamond Q. Have any court rulings upheld the denial of requests for exemption from the COVID-19 vaccine? A. Yes. Coming on the heels of President Joe Biden’s plan to require millions of workers to receive COVID-19 vaccinations, many employers either have already
- [Three costly background check mistakes - avoid those land mines!](https://gp1.com/three-costly-background-check-mistakes-avoid-those-land-mines/) - Detail orientation, detail orientation, detail orientation – it’s a requirement for proper background screening. While this may not be headline news, we should all be reminded of this rule, and often. Our profession is defined by precise rules and regulations, with potentially stiff fines for violations. All of us working in HR, and GroupOne Background
- [Be Prudent – Screen your Student! Did you know GroupOne provides student screening?](https://gp1.com/be-prudent-screen-your-student-did-you-know-groupone-provides-student-screening/) - GroupOne partners with universities, colleges and schools to perform background checks on students in contact with patients and faculty. Our customized online system saves you time and money while ensuring a safe campus. We can even provide screening for students in hospitals and healthcare programs. And it’s so easy! Students follow our link and utilize
- [Employers beware: The EEOC is monitoring use of Artificial Intelligence!](https://gp1.com/employers-beware-the-eeoc-is-monitoring-use-of-artificial-intelligence/) - Excerpted from a Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP blog by Daniel J. Butler and Kevin J. White Earlier this month, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) held a webinar on artificial intelligence (AI) in the workplace. Commissioner Keith Sonderling explained that the EEOC is monitoring employers’ use of such technology in the workplace to ensure compliance
- [Navigating remote working in the post-pandemic world: 6 tips for employers](https://gp1.com/navigating-remote-working-in-the-post-pandemic-world-6-tips-for-employers/) - Excerpted from a Seyfarth Shaw LLP blog by Marjorie R. Culver and Caitlin E. Lane As employers around the globe consider what their organization’s post-pandemic return to work will look like, one thing is certain: hybrid and remote work arrangements will be part of the new normal. Creating a sustainable flexible work environment requires consideration
- [FTC approves changes to FCRA rules; clarifies application to motor vehicle dealers](https://gp1.com/ftc-approves-changes-to-fcra-rules-clarifies-application-to-motor-vehicle-dealers/) - Excerpted from a JDSUPRA post. On September 8, the FTC approved final revisions that would bring several rules implementing parts of the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) in line with the Dodd-Frank Act, which transferred rulemaking authority related to parts of the FCRA to the CFPB, and thereby narrowed the FTC’s FCRA rulemaking authority for
- [Companies are so desperate to fill jobs they're getting rid of drug tests](https://gp1.com/companies-are-so-desperate-to-fill-jobs-theyre-getting-rid-of-drug-tests/) - Excerpted from a Money article by Julia Glum The global labor shortage has made work perks all but essential for companies scrambling to fill open roles. But in addition to promises of higher wages, flexible schedules and free college tuition for workers, one hurdle to getting a job is disappearing. In a survey out Tuesday
- [Workers fired for refusing a vaccine unlikely to qualify for unemployment](https://gp1.com/workers-fired-for-refusing-a-vaccine-unlikely-to-qualify-for-unemployment/) - Excerpted from a USA Today article by McKenzie Sadeghi The claim: Employees who are fired for refusing a vaccine are eligible for unemployment benefits The highly transmissible delta coronavirus variant has caused a nationwide spike in cases, hospitalizations and deaths. As a result, an increasing number of workplaces are requiring employees to provide proof of
- [Applicant drags feet on background check: Can offer be pulled?](https://gp1.com/applicant-drags-feet-on-background-check-can-offer-be-pulled/) - Excerpted from an HR Morning Blog by Tom D’Agostino The employer waited for fingerprints and a drug test. And waited. And waited some more. It eventually convinced the a federal appeals court that a newly hired teacher’s employment contract offer could be revoked. The teacher delayed required fingerprinting and did not undergo drug testing before
- [Texas Legislature revises sexual harassment laws to benefit employees](https://gp1.com/texas-legislature-revises-sexual-harassment-laws-to-benefit-employees/) - Excerpted from a Holland & Knight Blog by Barbara-Ellen Gaffney Beginning Sept. 1, 2021, all Texas employers — regardless of headcount — will need to act swiftly when sexual harassment is reported, and take effective remedial measures to ensure that such harassment is corrected. Two new workplace sexual harassment laws will take effect for Texas
- [By the way, have you been vaccinated?](https://gp1.com/by-the-way-have-you-been-vaccinated/) - We’re sure this has come up hundreds of times, but the question still needs to be asked. When interviewing potential employees, can you ask about their COVID-19 vaccination status? The answer is, “Yes,” generally speaking. Most hospitals in the U.S. are moving in the direction of vaccine mandates following a positive June 12 court ruling
- [New guidance for employers on “Long COVID” as a disability](https://gp1.com/new-guidance-for-employers-on-long-covid-as-a-disability/) - Excerpted from a Nelson Mullings Riley & Scarborough LLP Blog The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and U.S. Department of Justice issued new guidance on July 26 clarifying that “long COVID,” and its potentially debilitating effects, can be a disability under Titles II (applying to state and local government) and III (applying to
- [Colorado joins the bandwagon, enacts comprehensive privacy law](https://gp1.com/colorado-joins-the-bandwagon-enacts-comprehensive-privacy-law/) - Excerpted from a LewisRice blog by Billee Elliott McAuliffe, Alfred J. Ludwig and Melissa G. Powers The year 2023 is proving to be an important year in the privacy world. Colorado recently joined an expanding list of states to have enacted comprehensive privacy laws. Colorado’s law, known as the Colorado Privacy Act, or ColoPA for
- [Best Practices for hiring to avoid potential discrimination claims](https://gp1.com/best-practices-for-hiring-to-avoid-potential-discrimination-claims/) - Excerpted from a Troutman Pepper Blog by Shirley Akrasih Hiring new employees — whether high school and college students looking for part-time work or recent graduates entering the workforce — can be challenging. One possible risk is that a job applicant could claim unlawful discrimination based on your decision not to hire that applicant, even
- [GroupOne hosting booth at Gulf Coast Symposium, Aug. 3-4](https://gp1.com/groupone-hosting-booth-at-gulf-coast-symposium-aug-3-4/) - GroupOne will be hosting booth #222 during the Gulf Coast HR Symposium, Aug. 3-4 at the NRG Center in Houston, Texas. The event offers more than 130 diverse sessions and speakers covering a broad variety of HR industry topics over a busy two days. GroupOne’s Account Manager and HR Guru David Graves will be present
- [California Court of Appeal ruling could severely restrict employment background checks](https://gp1.com/california-court-of-appeal-ruling-could-severely-restrict-employment-background-checks/) - Excerpted from a JDSupra Blog California employers should review their employment background check procedures in light of recent developments. The California Court of Appeal recently ruled in All of Us or None of Us v. Hamrick that an individual’s date of birth and driver’s license number cannot be used as data identifying a criminal defendant
- [EEOC provides new guidance on sexual orientation and other gender issues](https://gp1.com/eeoc-provides-new-guidance-on-sexual-orientation-and-other-gender-issues/) - Excerpted from a Bradley blog by Cortlin Bond and Anne R. Yuengert You may recall last summer the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in Bostock v. Clayton County, Georgia that held discrimination based on sexual orientation is prohibited by Title VII. After that decision, we encouraged you to update your EEO and harassment policies, update your
- [Legal ruling provides good news for employers performing background checks](https://gp1.com/legal-ruling-provides-good-news-for-employers-performing-background-checks/) - Excerpted from a Clingen Callow & McLean LLC blog by Ross I. Molho and Iman Eikram The United States Supreme Court recently held there must be a “concrete” harm before one can sue under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) TransUnion LLC v. Ramirez. This is good news for employers because background checks are implicated
- [Pacific Northwest heat wave leads to emergency regulations for employee safety](https://gp1.com/pacific-northwest-heat-wave-leads-to-emergency-regulations-for-employee-safety/) - When the Pacific Northwest turns into Death Valley, it’s time to update employee safety guidelines. That’s exactly what happened last week after record-breaking 110-plus summer temperatures fried Oregon and Washington to a crisp leading state agencies to pass emergency regulations to protect workers from the extreme heat. Both the Oregon Occupational Health and Safety Administration
- [Did anyone really have time for a COVID-19 “passion project?”](https://gp1.com/did-anyone-really-have-time-for-a-covid-19-passion-project/) - While working from home may have sounded appealing in 2020, these days it’s as enjoyable as being trapped by snow in Barrow, Alaska. Our employees at GroupOne Background Screening have effectively been “snowed in” now for over a year. It’s a tribute to their dedication they have maintained deadlines and continue to meet the screening
- [Criminal background check litigation on the rise: What employers need to know](https://gp1.com/criminal-background-check-litigation-on-the-rise-what-employers-need-to-know/) - Excerpted from a Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP blog by Robert T. Quackenboss, Kevin J. White and Eileen Henderson Despite predictions to the contrary, class action litigation over criminal background checks in the hiring process has continued to climb. In 2020, plaintiffs filed over 5,000 claims related to the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), a 10-year
- [PBSA scores partial victory in Michigan as move to redact DOB from records is delayed](https://gp1.com/pbsa-scores-partial-victory-in-michigan-as-move-to-redact-dob-from-records-is-delayed/) - A proposed amendment from the Michigan Supreme Court to redact the Date of Birth (DOB) from court records has been delayed. In a statement released yesterday afternoon by the Professional Background Screening Association (PBSA), the non-profit trade organization claimed a “partial victory.” “PBSA is thrilled to advise the Michigan Supreme Court issued an order that
- [How is My Hair? A Brief Review of Hairstyle Discrimination in the Workplace](https://gp1.com/how-is-my-hair-a-brief-review-of-hairstyle-discrimination-in-the-workplace/) - Excerpted from a Bond Schoeneck & King PLLC Blog by Nihla F. Sikkander “How is my hair? Does it look OK?” With employees returning to onsite work, questions regarding employers’ grooming and dress code policies are bound to crop up. When responding, employers should be cognizant of the fact that their dress code and grooming
- [PBSA distributes letter related to controversial Michigan decision to redact DOB from public records](https://gp1.com/pbsa-distributes-letter-related-to-controversial-michigan-decision-to-redact-dob-from-public-records/) - Following the announcement of a proposed amendment from the Michigan Supreme Court to redact the Date of Birth (DOB) from court records, the Professional Background Screening Association (PBSA) asked all members to distribute the following letter to clients. GroupOne Background Screening has been a long-standing member of PBSA – a non-profit trade organization representing background
- [Why you screen candidates - woman embezzles for third time for take of $1.35m](https://gp1.com/why-you-screen-candidates-woman-embezzles-for-third-time-for-take-of-1-35m/) - If you can save your company $1 million, you’re going to take advantage of that opportunity, right? Here at GroupOne Background Screening, we can offer you one solution – vigorously screen your job candidates, especially those working with money. In a court case on Tuesday in Charlotte, North Carolina, one Lisa Hill pleaded guilty to
- [VLOG – GroupOne’s David Graves is having some “Summer Fun!”](https://gp1.com/vlog-groupones-david-graves-is-having-some-summer-fun/) - Still working from home due to COVID-19, GroupOne Background Screening sales associate and HR guru David Graves posted a continuation of his video series today to discuss “Summer Fun – Screening 101.” Some great ideas for screening during the upcoming warm months. The video is the 19th of a series David plans to post detailing
- [Move to redact DOB in Michigan court records inspires PBSA call to action](https://gp1.com/move-to-redact-dob-in-michigan-court-records-inspires-pbsa-call-to-action/) - In an alarming move for both background screeners and their clients across the U.S., a proposed amendment from the Michigan Supreme Court will redact the Date of Birth (DOB) in court records. Michigan is expected to implement the court rules and remove DOB from records on July 1, 2021. The Professional Background Screening Association (PBSA)
- [Texas court supports hospital’s decision to require COVID-19 vaccine for employees](https://gp1.com/texas-court-supports-hospitals-decision-to-require-covid-19-vaccine-for-employees/) - In Texas, the race to obtain the COVID-19 vaccine is perhaps akin to a motorized grocery cart rounding the aisle at barely two mph. To date, only 38% of its residents have received the shot. Compared to Vermont and Maine, states ranking No. 1 and 2 in the U.S. with 60% vaccinated, those are paltry
- [Can a job candidate refuse a background check?](https://gp1.com/can-a-job-candidate-refuse-a-background-check/) - We may be showing our age, but many moons ago we were standing in line at the local video store. A customer wanted to rent a video for the first time and the clerk politely provided an application to be filled out. The customer said he would only provide his name, but not his date
- [No better time to discuss Background Screening 101!](https://gp1.com/no-better-time-to-discuss-background-screening-101/) - It’s summer. It’s hot. From where we sit at GroupOne Background Screening, there’s no better time to discuss the basic tenets of our profession. So, pour yourself a cold glass of lemonade, turn on the porch fan and let’s talk “Background Screening 101.” When employers conduct background checks, to include credit, criminal and past employer
- [Can my boss force me NOT to wear a mask at work?](https://gp1.com/can-my-boss-force-me-not-to-wear-a-mask-at-work/) - Excerpted from a Wall Street Journal story by Lauren Weber As more Americans are vaccinated and state mask mandates are dropped, can my employer forbid me from wearing a mask while at work? The bottom line As long as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that individuals wear masks and social distance at
- [Social Security Administration pauses the issuance of “No-Match” letters](https://gp1.com/social-security-administration-pauses-the-issuance-of-no-match-letters/) - Excerpted from a Mayer Brown Blog by Timothy C. D’Arduini In April 2021, the Social Security Administration (SSA) notified the public of its intention to no longer issue Employer Correction Request Notices (no-match letters) to employers. SSA no-match letters advise employers that corrective action needs to be taken to resolve a discrepancy between SSA records
- [GP1 webinar “Building a Strong Background Screening Program” has been posted online](https://gp1.com/gp1-webinar-building-a-strong-background-screening-program-has-been-posted-online/) - Get out the toolbox! GroupOne Background Screening’s second webinar of the year “Building a Strong Background Screening Program” originally broadcast on June 3 has been posted online. The complimentary event brought together a team of GroupOne experts as they discussed the best ways to construct a sound, solid and dependable background screening plan. David Graves,
- [At last - EEOC issues guidance on COVID-19 vaccinations in the workplace!](https://gp1.com/at-last-eeoc-issues-guidance-on-covid-19-vaccinations-in-the-workplace/) - At last, on May 28, 2021, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) released new guidance addressing COVID-19 vaccine issues in the workplace. The guidance answers several important questions, including mandating vaccinations for employees and incentives that can potentially be offered. As noted in an earlier GroupOne Background Screening blog, for several months U.S., employers
- [Just two days until GroupOne webinar!](https://gp1.com/just-two-days-until-groupone-webinar/) - Get out the toolbox! It’s just two days until GroupOne Background Screening’s webinar “Building a Strong Background Screening Program” on Thursday, June 3 from 2:00-3:00 p.m., CDT. This complimentary event is a great opportunity as GroupOne will bring together a team of its most experienced experts to discuss the best ways to construct a sound,
- [GroupOne Blog: Trends and Developments in Background Screening](https://gp1.com/groupone-blog-trends-and-developments-in-background-screening/) - Blog by Danny Davila, Director of FCRA Regulatory Risk and Consumer Compliance Advisor at GroupOne Background Screening Danny Davila will be a guest expert next Thursday, June 3 during GroupOne’s webinar “Building a Strong Background Screening Program.” The Professional Screening Background Association (PBSA) held its Mid-Year Conference on April 19-20, 2021. This year’s conference was
- [Just one week until GroupOne webinar!](https://gp1.com/just-one-week-until-groupone-webinar/) - Get out the toolbox! It’s just one week until GroupOne Background Screening’s second webinar of the year “Building a Strong Background Screening Program” on Thursday, June 3 from 2:00-3:00 p.m., CDT. The complimentary event will bring together a team of GroupOne experts as they discuss the best ways to construct from the ground up a
- [Legal case: Good disability deed goes unpunished](https://gp1.com/legal-case-good-disability-deed-goes-unpunished/) - Excerpted from a JacksonLewis Blog by Jody Wilner Moran What is an employer’s risk in terminating an employee who has suffered an injury or becomes disabled and no longer can perform the essential functions of the position? How can that risk be lowered? The Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals recently addressed this issue in Conners
- [Just 12 days until GroupOne’s “Building a Strong Background Screening Program” webinar!](https://gp1.com/just-12-days-until-groupones-building-a-strong-background-screening-program-webinar/) - Get out the toolbox! It’s less than two weeks until GroupOne Background Screening’s second webinar of the year “Building a Strong Background Screening Program” on Thursday, June 3 from 2:00-3:00 p.m., CDT. The complimentary event will bring together a team of GroupOne experts as they discuss the best ways to construct from the ground up
- [Office etiquette in the post-pandemic world](https://gp1.com/office-etiquette-in-the-post-pandemic-world/) - Excerpted from GOBankingRates Blog by Gabrielle Olya We all know how you conduct yourself in an office should be different than when you’re at home or among friends and family, but the coronavirus pandemic has made things a bit more complicated. Gone are the days when chatting around the water cooler or high-fiving in the
- [Investigation claims background check could have saved city millions](https://gp1.com/investigation-claims-background-check-could-have-saved-city-millions/) - Excerpted from a WDRB Story by Stephan Johnson A year-long investigation in Louisville, Kentucky uncovered new details about TARC’s former executive director. The 210-page report, released last week, says Ferdinand Risco behaved like a "sexual predator." The report claims there was a "systemic failure of oversight and accountability from the initial hiring to the day
- [CDC lifts COVID-19 masking restrictions – now what?](https://gp1.com/cdc-lifts-covid-19-masking-restrictions-now-what/) - In a surprise announcement on May 13, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said U.S. residents who have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19 no longer need to wear a masks or practice social distancing. Combined with the CDC’s April 27 instructions that vaccinated individuals could forgo masks in outdoor settings, it appears the
- [GroupOne to host June 3 webinar “Building a Strong Background Screening Program”](https://gp1.com/groupone-to-host-june-3-webinar-building-a-strong-background-screening-program/) - Get out the toolbox! GroupOne Background Screening will host its second webinar of the year “Building a Strong Background Screening Program” on Thursday, June 3 from 2:00-3:00 p.m., CDT. The complimentary event will bring together a team of GroupOne experts as they discuss the best ways to construct a sound, solid and dependable background screening
- [“Energy,” “Stamina” and “Dynamic” are not code for age discrimination](https://gp1.com/energy-stamina-and-dynamic-are-not-code-for-age-discrimination/) - Excerpted from a Shawe Rosenthal, LLP Blog by Fiona W. Ong The U.S. Court of Appeals for the First Circuit rejected claims under the Age Discrimination in Employment Act and state law, finding that the employer’s statement that its ideal candidate would have “energy,” be “dynamic” and possess “stamina” was not evidence of age-based animus
- [U.S. adults support removing hiring barriers for those with criminal records](https://gp1.com/u-s-adults-support-removing-hiring-barriers-for-those-with-criminal-records/) - Excerpted from an HR Dive Blog by Ryan Golden Dive Brief: • Most U.S. adults in a survey by staffing firm Kelly Services said they support efforts to end what they identified as discriminatory hiring practices, including those that screen out applicants who have committed certain criminal offenses. • For instance, 64% of respondents said
- [Social Media Background Checks - there's much to consider!](https://gp1.com/social-media-background-checks-are-on-the-horizon/) - A Social Media Background Check may sound self-explanatory, but in today’s screening market, there’s much to consider. What is a Social Media Background Check? It’s the process of reviewing a job applicant's social media pages to learn about the candidate. The background check is performed using information available to the public through social media platforms.
- [What is Continuous Background Screening?](https://gp1.com/what-is-continuous-background-screening-its-a-new-service-coming-to-groupone/) - Is Continuous Background Screening the future? Very likely. This new tool provides safety and piece of mind for your company and employees. As GroupOne Background Screening has stated before, employment background verification is almost a necessity in today’s market, with over 70% of businesses in the U.S. conducting background checks. Over the years, background verification
- [Pre-employment Marijuana Screens to be outlawed in Philadelphia](https://gp1.com/pre-employment-marijuana-screens-to-be-outlawed-in-philadelphia/) - Excerpted from an SHRM article by Roy Maurer The Philadelphia City Council approved a measure on April 22 prohibiting most employers in the city from testing new hires for marijuana use. The bill makes it illegal for companies "to require a prospective employee to submit to testing for the presence of marijuana" before hiring them.
- [Minimum wage for some federal contractors increasing to $15 an hour](https://gp1.com/minimum-wage-for-some-federal-contractors-increasing-to-15-an-hour/) - Excerpted from a Constangy Brooks Smith & Prophete LLP Blog by Cara Yates Crotty Some employees will be getting a raise. President Biden issued an Executive Order this week increasing the minimum wage for certain federal contractors to $15 per hour. Similar to President Obama’s Executive Order 13658, which set a minimum wage for employees
- [We verify the past to protect your future – GP1’s background screening!](https://gp1.com/we-verify-the-past-to-protect-your-future-gp1s-background-screening/) - Yes, we know. For a company named GroupOne Background Screening, you think it would be obvious what we offer – background screening. In fact, we offer a comprehensive set of screening solutions to ensure you get the facts you need to make the right decision – and fast! Our background screening tools have been proven
- [Virtual onboarding: How to welcome new hires while fully remote](https://gp1.com/virtual-onboarding-how-to-welcome-new-hires-while-fully-remote/) - Excerpted from an Enterprisers Project Blog by Jo Deal This year, businesses across the globe went from talking about remote working plans to rapidly putting them into action. As a result of the pandemic, millions of people – including many who had never regularly worked from home – have been suddenly forced into their home
- [Iowa Supreme Court urged to strike down “Ban the Box”](https://gp1.com/iowa-supreme-court-urged-to-strike-down-ban-the-box/) - Excerpted from a Courthouse News Service story by Rox Laird An Iowa business association claims a Waterloo city ordinance protecting job applicants with criminal records conflicts with state law. An Iowa city’s ordinance that initially bars employers from checking job applicants’ criminal records should be struck down because it conflicts with state and federal law,
- [5 Business Communication Issues in the workplace](https://gp1.com/5-business-communication-issues-in-the-workplace/) - Excerpted from a GetVoiP Blog by Brynne Ramella The business landscape was one of the many elements of everyday life that was turned utterly upside down in 2020 by the COVID-19 pandemic. The coronavirus forced nearly every member of the workforce to go remote for the foreseeable future. This unknowingly created a number of business
- [Hallelujah! EEOC announces it will provide guidance on COVID-19 vaccine incentives](https://gp1.com/hallelujah-eeoc-announces-it-will-provide-guidance-on-covid-19-vaccine-incentives/) - Just how much can an employer insist that its employees obtain the COVID-19 vaccine? One would think this would be an easy choice, right? Well, not so fast. Large segments of the U.S. population, for multiple reasons, have not and will not obtain the COVID-19 vaccine. Some companies have been providing incentives such as cash
- [Top trends in HR management in 2021](https://gp1.com/top-trends-in-hr-management-in-2021/) - Excerpted from an HRD article by Daljeet Kaur Lal People as resources are invaluable assets of an organization. For a business to be successful, every company is obligated to enhance their workforce by aligning their human resource (HR) strategies with the latest trends. With the advancement in technology, HR departments have been transforming gradually over
- [Education Verification – an important tool for your company](https://gp1.com/education-verification-an-important-tool-for-your-company/) - Verifying a candidate’s education is always a good idea. It confirms the background of your potential employee, in addition to their training and knowledge. Although such verifications can sometimes take extra time to complete, there are jobs at your company where it’s essential that education, professional certification or licensure has been completed and remains up
- [Tinder’s plan for criminal record checks raises fears of ‘lifelong punishment’](https://gp1.com/tinders-plan-for-criminal-record-checks-raises-fears-of-lifelong-punishment/) - Excerpted from The Guardian feature story by Hope Corrigan When Jerrel Gantt was released from prison after three years, he was handed a pamphlet about healthcare and nothing else. He began searching for employment, a deep source of anxiety for him, and secured housing through a ministry in New York City. He later enrolled in
- [2,000 COVID-19 employment lawsuits in the U.S.: Analysis of the trends](https://gp1.com/2000-covid-19-employment-lawsuits-in-the-u-s-analysis-of-the-trends/) - Excerpted from a JacksonLewis blog by Nadine Abrahams and Stephanie Adler-Paindiris On April 6, 2021, the total number of COVID-19-related employment complaints filed in U.S. courts passed the 2,000 mark. Although it took eight months to reach the first 1,000 complaints (March–November 2020), it took less than five months to go from 1,000 to 2,000.
- [Creating a Trans-Inclusive workplace](https://gp1.com/creating-a-trans-inclusive-workplace/) - Excerpted from a Harvard Business Review article by Christian Thoroughgood, Katina Sawyer and Jennica Webster For most of us, work is stressful in and of itself. Imagine carrying the added emotional weight of having to deny and suppress one of the most fundamental aspects of who you are—your gender identity—because it doesn’t conform with society’s
- [Paid sick leave is expected to be a growing trend](https://gp1.com/paid-sick-leave-is-expected-to-be-a-growing-trend/) - Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic last year, showing up to work with a temperature or cough is no longer a sign of dedication. In fact, such behavior could kill your staff and customers. American work culture has long taken pride in the habit of muscling through the common cold. Today, a sneeze will
- [New York state of mind – What legalized weed means for employers](https://gp1.com/new-york-state-of-mind-what-legalized-weed-means-for-employers/) - Excerpted from a Forbes article by Alonzo Martinez After years of debating and advancing marijuana laws, beginning with legalizing the medical use of cannabis in 2014 to decriminalize minor marijuana-related offenses in 2019, lawmakers in New York have gone all-in legalizing the recreational use of marijuana by adults. On March 31, 2021, New York Governor
- [Court rules regular worksite attendance is essential for most jobs](https://gp1.com/court-rules-regular-worksite-attendance-is-essential-for-most-jobs/) - Excerpted from a Shawe Rosenthal, LLP blog by Fiona W. Ong Some disabilities may indeed prevent employees from showing up regularly for work. But according to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit, that could also mean the employee is not qualified for the position and, therefore, is not entitled to protection under
- [Internet dating and background screening – a good idea?](https://gp1.com/internet-dating-and-background-screening-a-good-idea/) - Internet dating has come a long way – in more ways than one. Tinder announced last week it was going to provide a way for users to obtain data on potential dates. On the surface, this is a good idea. Better safe than sorry, right? The data to be provided by Tinder – for a
- [COVID-19 and employee mental health: What employers can do](https://gp1.com/covid-19-and-employee-mental-health-what-employers-can-do/) - Excerpted from a Thompson Coburn LLP blog by Lori W. Jones The significant impact of COVID-19 on employees includes not only the many risks to physical health, but also the heavy toll on employee mental health. In October 2020, the Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF) reported that mental health illnesses could soon eclipse obesity as the
- [Why you say stupid things and how to stop!](https://gp1.com/why-you-say-stupid-things-and-how-to-stop/) - Excerpted from a SocialPro blog by Natalie Watkins Everyone says the wrong thing from time to time. If it’s an occasional slip-up, people will usually just move on. If you’re reading this article, you’re probably finding that it’s a bigger problem than that. So what could be the reason for saying stupid things? Common reasons
- [At a glance: employment termination in the U.S.](https://gp1.com/at-a-glance-employment-termination-in-the-u-s/) - Excerpted from a Morgan Lewis & Bockius LLP blog by David McManus, Michelle Silverman and Thomas Hurka Grounds for termination May an employer dismiss an employee for any reason or must there be ‘cause’? How is cause defined under the applicable statute or regulation? Unless the employer contractually agrees otherwise (either in an individual employment
- [The future of remote work - the new norm for businesses?](https://gp1.com/the-future-of-remote-work-the-new-norm-for-businesses/) - Excerpted from a Forbes article by Caroline Castrillon The world witnessed a historic shift in the 2020 job market due to the Covid-19 pandemic. While some companies used to offer the ability to work from home as a perk, it has now become the norm for most businesses. By 2025, an estimated 70% of the
- [5 tips for attracting talent during the pandemic](https://gp1.com/5-tips-for-attracting-talent-during-the-pandemic/) - Excerpted from an SHRM Blog by Roxi Bahar Hewertson Your budget may have taken a hit, you may have had to change course, but you can—and should—still hire top talent. The business world is still finding its footing as the pandemic continues to impact everyone’s lives. If you’re a leader who has had to cut
- [COVID-19 inspections under OSHA’s new National Emphasis Program to increase](https://gp1.com/covid-19-inspections-under-oshas-new-national-emphasis-program-to-increase/) - Excerpted from an Akerman, LLP blog On March 12, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) announced a new National Emphasis Program (NEP) designed to significantly reduce worker exposure to COVID-19 by targeting industries and worksites where employees may have a high frequency of close-contact exposures. The new NEP on COVID-19 has two main components:
- [Is Texas the wild, wild west when it comes to COVID-19 policies?](https://gp1.com/is-texas-the-wild-wild-west-when-it-comes-to-covid-19-policies/) - In a surprising development on March 2, 2021, Texas Governor Greg Abbott issued an Executive Order lifting the mask mandate and increasing capacity of all businesses and facilities to 100%. Granted, the number of hospital patients suffering from COVID-19 had fallen and nearly 6 million COVID-19 vaccination shots had been administered across the state. Mississippi,
- [EEOC issues revised Religious Discrimination Manual](https://gp1.com/eeoc-issues-revised-religious-discrimination-manual/) - Excerpted from Hall Benefits Law blog. On January 15, 2021, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) issued updated guidance to its Compliance Manual on Religious Discrimination, the first significant update since 2008. In the updated manual, the EEOC provides important clarifications concerning Title VII religious discrimination laws in the workplace. These clarifications include the definition
- [PBSA survey is now available to GroupOne clients!](https://gp1.com/pbsa-survey-is-now-available-to-groupone-clients/) - It’s survey time! GroupOne Background Screening is proud to be an active member of the Professional Background Screening Association (PBSA), whose mission is to “advance excellence in the screening profession to better serve you, our customers.” For the fifth year in a row, PBSA is conducting an industry survey of HR professionals regarding their use
- [GroupOne’s “Reference Revolution!” webinar has now been posted online](https://gp1.com/groupones-reference-revolution-webinar-has-now-been-posted-online/) - It’s extraordinary, it’s sensational! It’s a “Reference Revolution!” GroupOne Background Screening’s webinar originally broadcast on March 18 has now been posted online. The complimentary event detailed GroupOne’s new online reference tool so easy-to-use it’s amazing. Steve Fischer, GroupOne’s business operations guru, provided the expert commentary. David Graves, GroupOne’s HR kingpin, and Kaitlyn Ellis, our marketing
- [Lawmakers Introduce National ‘Ban-the-Box’ Bill](https://gp1.com/lawmakers-introduce-national-ban-the-box-bill/) - Excerpted from The SHRM Blog By Roy Maurer New legislation would encourage states to implement "ban-the-box" policies that prohibit employers from asking job applicants about their criminal history before an offer of employment is made. Reps. Maxine Waters, D-Calif., and David Trone, D-Md., introduced the Workforce Justice Act on March 3. It would give states
- [Just two days until GroupOne’s “Reference Revolution” webinar!](https://gp1.com/just-two-days-until-groupones-reference-revolution-webinar/) - It’s extraordinary, it’s sensational! It’s a “Reference Revolution!” It's just two days until the GroupOne Background Screening webinar on Thursday, March 18 from 1:00-2:00 p.m., CDT. The complimentary event will detail GroupOne’s new online reference tool so easy-to-use it’s amazing. Steve Fischer, GroupOne’s business operations guru will provide the expert commentary. David Graves, GroupOne’s HR
- [Are COVID-19 vaccine incentives the right fit for your company?](https://gp1.com/are-covid-19-vaccine-incentives-the-right-fit-for-your-company/) - In December of 2020, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) published guidance on employer mandatory COVID-19 vaccination policies. The guidance explained that with few exceptions, employers can require employees to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. Even though mandatory COVID-19 vaccines have been deemed permissible by the EEOC, employers remain hesitant. As the vaccine becomes more
- [Just one week until GroupOne’s “Reference Revolution” webinar!](https://gp1.com/just-one-week-until-groupones-reference-revolution-webinar/) - It’s extraordinary, it’s sensational! It’s a “Reference Revolution!” Don’t miss the first webinar of the year hosted by GroupOne Background Screening in just one week next Thursday, March 18 from 1:00-2:00 p.m., CDT. The complimentary event will detail GroupOne’s new online reference tool so easy-to-use it’s amazing. Steve Fischer, GroupOne’s business operations guru will provide
- [Employers giving workers bonuses and paid time off for COVID-19 vaccination](https://gp1.com/employers-giving-workers-bonuses-and-paid-time-off-for-covid-19-vaccination/) - With the U.S. racing towards having 75% of its residents receiving the COVID-19 vaccination by the summer, a national effort is underway to assist people to receive their immunizations. In a deadly contest against a virus that's killed more than 500,000 Americans, aided now by a looming variant that recently arrived by way of the
- [Texas confusion – Can employers still require employees to wear masks?](https://gp1.com/texas-confusion-can-employers-still-require-employees-to-wear-masks/) - As people were literally waiting in line to receive their COVID-19 vaccine on March 2, Texas Governor Greg Abbott announced an end to the mask mandate and COVID-19 operating limits in Texas. His new Executive Order will go into effect March 10. Governor Abbott still “strongly encouraged” individuals to wear face masks and said no
- [Tips to help employees transition back to the physical workplace](https://gp1.com/tips-to-help-employees-transition-back-to-the-physical-workplace/) - Excerpted from The SHRM Blog by By Indie B. Bollman, MBA, SHRM-SCP, SPHR At some point in the hopefully not too distant future, employees will start returning to work in the physical workplace instead of working remotely from their homes. Just as the transition from the workplace to home represented a significant shift, returning to
- [VLOG – GroupOne’s David Graves previews upcoming “Reference Revolution!” webinar](https://gp1.com/vlog-groupones-david-graves-previews-upcoming-reference-revolution-webinar/) - GroupOne Background Screening HR guru David Graves previews the March 18 webinar “Reference Revolution!” The complimentary event will kick off at 1:00 p.m., CDT and detail GroupOne’s new state-of-the-art, online reference tool so easy to use it’s amazing. Steve Fischer, GroupOne’s business operations guru, will provide the expert commentary. Graves and Kaitlyn Ellis, our marketing
- [Just two weeks until GroupOne’s “Reference Revolution” webinar!](https://gp1.com/just-two-weeks-until-groupones-reference-revolution-webinar/) - It’s extraordinary, it’s sensational! It’s a “Reference Revolution!” Don’t miss the first webinar of the year hosted by GroupOne Background Screening in just two weeks on Thursday, March 18 from 1:00-2:00 p.m., CDT. The complimentary event will detail GroupOne’s new online reference tool so easy-to-use it’s amazing. Steve Fischer, GroupOne’s business operations guru will provide
- [The surprising key to combatting vaccine refusal](https://gp1.com/the-surprising-key-to-combatting-vaccine-refusal/) - Excerpted from an article in The Atlantic by Derek Thompson Why wouldn’t someone want a COVID-19 vaccine? Staring at the raw numbers, it doesn’t seem like a hard choice. Thousands of people are dying of COVID-19 every day. Meanwhile, out of the 75,000 people who received a shot in the vaccine trials from Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna,
- [How to Create Virtual Leadership Routines](https://gp1.com/how-to-create-virtual-leadership-routines/) - Excerpted from The SHRM Blog By Geraldine Woloch-Addamine We are going through a blurry, timeless world where any processes, defined roles, and responsibilities can increase team cohesiveness and productivity. Equally, leaders can benefit more from leadership routines to improve performance. Virtual leadership routines are essential for three reasons: 1. They help connect better with team
- [More Consumers Complain About Errors on Their Credit Reports](https://gp1.com/more-consumers-complain-about-errors-on-their-credit-reports/) - Excerpted from The New York Times By Ann Carrns Add this to the financial fallout from the pandemic: More consumers are complaining about errors on their credit reports, and many are frustrated when trying to fix the mistakes, according to federal complaint data. In 2020, consumers filed more than 280,000 complaints about credit reporting issues
- [GroupOne will host a “Reference Revolution!” on March 18](https://gp1.com/groupone-will-host-a-reference-revolution-on-march-18/) - It’s extraordinary, it’s sensational! It’s a “Reference Revolution!” Don’t miss the first webinar of the year hosted by GroupOne Background Screening on Thursday, March 18 from 1:00-2:00 p.m., CDT. The complimentary event will detail GroupOne’s new online reference tool so easy-to-use it’s amazing. Steve Fischer, GroupOne’s business operations guru will provide the expert commentary. David
- [Post-COVID Career Advancement](https://gp1.com/post-covid-career-advancement/) - Excerpted from The SHRM Blog by David Kovacovich Vaccines are being administered and with Spring a month away there is (finally) reason to be optimistic that a return to normal is in sight. What Will The Future Look Like? Will we return to commutes, office clusters, airplanes and hotels? Will the benefits of the work-from-home
- [Does your workplace have a severe weather policy?](https://gp1.com/does-your-workplace-have-a-severe-weather-policy/) - If your office is in Texas or the southwest, you probably don’t need to enact a severe weather policy very often. But let it be known on Feb. 15, 2021, a temperature of -2 degrees was recorded at DFW Airport. Now that’s cold. With freezing temperatures like that, combined with 5-7 inches of snow, getting
- [Employer prevails in unique age discrimination suit](https://gp1.com/employer-prevails-in-unique-age-discrimination-suit/) - As the 19th century saying goes, “Silence is wisdom when speaking is folly.” Here at GroupOne Background Screening, we suggest employers take this advice to heart. It appears in a unique case in Ohio, some supervisors did not. While the employer prevailed, the case never-the-less cost money to defend. In January, a court in Ohio
- [Ask a Manager: 7 Things Employees Want To Ask Their Manager (But Don't)](https://gp1.com/ask-a-manager-7-things-employees-want-to-ask-their-manager-but-dont/) - Excerpted from The SHRM Blog by Brett Farmiloe All too often employees have questions that never get answered. To help managers be more proactive in seeking out employee questions, we asked employees and human resources professionals about the one question they want to ask their manager - but don't. Here are seven things employees want
- [Following suit, Nike updates policy to include transparent COVID-19 masks](https://gp1.com/following-suit-nike-updates-policy-to-include-transparent-covid-19-masks/) - We ran across this case and thought it might be of interest to our clients at GroupOne Background Screening. Last summer, Nike retail stores, like almost all businesses in the U.S., began requiring its employees to wear masks to combat the spread of COVID-19. A few weeks later, Cali Bunn entered one of its San
- [Introverts Can Thrive in HR](https://gp1.com/introverts-can-thrive-in-hr/) - Excerpted from The SHRM Blog by Ben Eubanks Occasionally I get a question from a reader, such as below. Today’s question is about how introverts can thrive in the world of HR. What is a good HR job for introverts? I am somewhat shy and am looking for a way to follow my passion for
- [OSHA updates “Workers Guidance” on preventing the spread of COVID-19](https://gp1.com/osha-updates-workers-guidance-on-preventing-the-spread-of-covid-19/) - During his first few days in office, President Joe Biden asked the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to release updated guidance for employers to keep workers safe from COVID-19 exposure. OSHA followed the request by issuing the press release “Protecting Workers: Guidance on Mitigating and Preventing the Spread of COVID-19 in the Workplace.” According
- [Oregon takes a sharp turn away from war on drugs as Measure 110 kicks in](https://gp1.com/oregon-takes-a-sharp-turn-away-from-war-on-drugs-as-measure-110-kicks-in/) - Excerpted from OPB by Kristian Foden-Vencil Big changes in Oregon’s drug laws take effect today. After decades of waging a war on drugs, voters decided in November to decriminalize the possession of small amounts of everything from methamphetamines to heroin. Under ballot Measure 110, police won’t pursue criminal charges if they find small amounts of
- [When I Grow Up - Empathy in Leadership](https://gp1.com/when-i-grow-up-empathy-in-leadership/) - Excerpted from The SHRM Blog By Ross Smith, FRSA My name is Sophia, and I am so glad to be a newborn in 2021. These are some challenging times for all of us. Thoreau said, “Could a greater miracle take place than for us to look through each other's eyes for an instant?” And before
- [French workers could be forced to wear social distancing collars](https://gp1.com/french-workers-could-be-forced-to-wear-social-distancing-collars/) - An article that ran last week in The Daily Mail detailed a rather unique plan for factory workers in France to wear social distancing “dog collars” that emit an alarm if people stand too close to each other. Needless-to-say, this quirky innovation has caused an outcry from both employees and unions alike. The device can
- [Political conversations at work are a recipe for disaster](https://gp1.com/political-conversations-at-work-are-a-recipe-for-disaster/) - Political violence, political protests, disputed voting results – there has rarely been a more controversial political climate in the U.S. than what has taken place over the past several months. So, the possibility for political conversations in the workplace have never been more palpable. There is no upside to employees discussing politics at work. Everyone
- [HR Survey participation to begin in February](https://gp1.com/hr-survey-participation-to-begin-in-february/) - It’s survey time at GroupOne Background Screening with three annual HR surveys conducted from February 1-29. The annual Pay Practices Survey and Benefit Practices Survey provide valuable benchmarking data in Texas. Participation is free and reports are available for $225 a survey. If you choose not to participate, you may still purchase the surveys for
- [Employee awarded $119,000 after suffering injuries from trying to answer the phone](https://gp1.com/employee-awarded-119000-after-suffering-injuries-from-trying-to-answer-the-phone/) - Excerpted from Lexology by Barry.Nilsson. Lawyers An employee rolled her ankle and injured herself after rushing to answer a phone call during work. It was found the risk of injury was not insignificant, and the employer should have taken precautions to prevent the risk of harm, by purchasing a headset. The employee was awarded $119,098,
- [Can Employers Terminate for Off-Duty Conduct (Say, Like Storming the Capitol)?](https://gp1.com/can-employers-terminate-for-off-duty-conduct-say-like-storming-the-capitol/) - Excerpted from Lexology by Shawe Rosenthal LLP Following the shocking events of January 6, 2020, there have been many reports of individuals who have been terminated, suspended or resigned from employment as a consequence due to their involvement in the deadly storming of the Capitol building or their active support of President Trump’s “stolen election”
- [Take a first step toward building better workplaces – but don’t stop there](https://gp1.com/take-a-first-step-toward-building-better-workplaces-but-dont-stop-there/) - Excerpted from The SHRM Blog by Sharlyn Lauby “If you can’t fly then run, if you can’t run then walk, if you can’t walk then crawl, but whatever you do you have to keep moving forward.” – Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. I’m sure that I’m not alone in saying that a few weeks ago,
- [VLOG - GroupOne's David Graves discusses "New Year's Resolutions!"](https://gp1.com/vlog-groupones-david-graves-discusses-new-years-resolutions/) - Still working from home due to COVID-19, GroupOne Background Screening sales associate and HR guru David Graves posted a continuation of his video series today to discuss New Year’s Resolutions. The video is the 17th of a series David and his team plan to post this year detailing the advantages of GroupOne’s services when providing
- [Ban-the-Box laws set to change or enact in 2021](https://gp1.com/ban-the-box-laws-set-to-change-or-enact-in-2021/) - Excerpted from PR Web by Dan Adams On January 1, 2021 a number of laws related to pre-employment background screening will change or be enacted, including a number related to Ban-the-Box, laws which govern the use of Criminal Background History as part of the vetting process. Adam Almeida, President and CEO of CriminalBackgroundRecords.com suggests: “With
- [Pandemic or not, employers must still comply with notice-posting requirements under federal law](https://gp1.com/pandemic-or-not-employers-must-still-comply-with-notice-posting-requirements-under-federal-law/) - Excerpted from Lexology by Reed Smith LLP Federal law, as well as many state and local laws, require employers to display notices and posters in the workplace advising employees of their rights. With many employers operating remotely due to COVID-19, however, questions regarding these statutory posting requirements have arisen. In response, on December 29, 2020,
- [During coronavirus, animal shelters are running out of dogs](https://gp1.com/during-coronavirus-animal-shelters-are-running-out-of-dogs/) - Excerpted from Washington Post By Dana Hedgpeth Animal shelters in the Washington region are experiencing a unique problem: As the coronavirus pandemic has kept more residents at home, it has created such a high demand for adopting dogs that the supply is increasingly limited. >br> Some shelters and humane rescue groups are seeing double the
- [COVID-19 concerns amid the new year](https://gp1.com/covid-19-concerns-amid-the-new-year/) - Excerpted from abc57 news by Summer Horan Holiday celebrations could mean a spike in cases. Local health officials are now waiting to see where the numbers will be after Christmas and New Year's. “The data suggests that if people are going to develop symptoms it tends to be at 5-6 days following an exposure," says
- [Virtual ball drop: New Year's Eve events cancelled across US as Covid cases surge](https://gp1.com/virtual-ball-drop-new-years-eve-events-cancelled-across-us-as-covid-cases-surge/) - Excerpted from The Guardian by Victoria Bekiempis While the crystal-encrusted New Year’s Eve ball will drop in Times Square at midnight on 31 December, its descent will diverge from tradition: this sparkling, 12-foot sphere will be greeted by empty streets due to Covid-19, and not hundreds of thousands of revelers. New York City authorities have
- [VLOG – GroupOne’s David Graves wishes everyone a happy holiday!](https://gp1.com/vlog-groupones-david-graves-wishes-everyone-a-happy-holiday/) - Still working from home due to COVID-19, GroupOne Background Screening sales associate and HR guru David Graves posted a continuation of his video series today to wish everyone a happy holiday and a happy new year! The video is the 16th of a series David and his team have posted this year detailing the advantages
- [How To Track Performance Without Micromanaging Virtual Teams](https://gp1.com/how-to-track-performance-without-micromanaging-virtual-teams/) - Excerpted from The SHRM Blog By Geraldine Woloch-Addamine We see that it’s quite hard to shift in a fully virtual environment because it requires a new skill-set for managers. But let’s not forget the purpose, as we are all working on building the best virtual workplace. Now, let’s dig into the most complicated challenge at
- [How Technology is Changing Background Screenings](https://gp1.com/how-technology-is-changing-background-screenings/) - Excerpted from TechTimes By Ernest Hamilton Once upon a time, background screenings were an arduous paper-based process. These days, however, technology has transformed the ways in which screenings are done. Most significant is the ways in which technology has improved the speed and accessibility of screenings. Background investigations used to take days, weeks, or even
- [EEOC Proposes Update To Its Compliance Manual On Religious Discrimination And Accommodation](https://gp1.com/eeoc-proposes-update-to-its-compliance-manual-on-religious-discrimination-and-accommodation/) - Excerpted from JD Supra by SmithAmundsen LLC On November 17, 2020, the Equal Opportunity Commission (EEOC) proposed an update to its Compliance Manual’s section on Religious Discrimination. The proposed Manual is open for public comment until December 17, 2020, after which the EEOC will take those comments into consideration before publishing the finalized updated Compliance
- [A guide to how youth sports programs should conduct background checks](https://gp1.com/a-guide-to-how-youth-sports-programs-should-conduct-background-checks/) - In today’s communities, coaches and instructors play crucial roles in the success of youth sports leagues. The good coaches, and there are so many out there, devote countless hours and have a beneficial impact on the young athletes they serve. Sadly, here at GroupOne Background Screening we come across headlines about trusted adults who have
- [Setting a Strong Foundation – 4 Key Focus Areas for the Emerging HR Professional](https://gp1.com/setting-a-strong-foundation-4-key-focus-areas-for-the-emerging-hr-professional/) - Excerpted from The SHRM Blog By Anna Turner, SHRM-CP, PHR, GBA It’s a pivotal time for people and work. There are many issues and changes affecting society, the way we work, and where we work. HR is at the center of helping companies achieve their long-term business goals amidst challenging times, while also taking care
- [Employer challenges ruling which says positive cocaine test insufficient to terminate – Say what?](https://gp1.com/employer-challenges-ruling-which-says-positive-drug-test-insufficient-to-terminate-say-what/) - Imagine you have an employee who failed a drug test and tested positive for cocaine. Imagine this employee drove a truck for your company. You would fire said employee, right? Well, put on the brakes! A driver represented by The International Brotherhood of Teamsters Local 59A was recently terminated by the Colonial Wholesale Beverage Company
- [How can you support small businesses during the holidays?](https://gp1.com/how-can-you-support-small-businesses-during-the-holidays/) - Sure, Target, Walmart and Amazon are a huge part of the American economy. But don’t be fooled, small businesses make up over 90% of all businesses in the U.S. It’s not an easy road for the independent entrepreneur. According to the Small Business Administration, small businesses have around a 50% survival rate. And the road
- [Is the current minimum wage a relic of the past?](https://gp1.com/is-the-current-minimum-wage-a-relic-of-the-past/) - Are the current minimum wages of $7.25 and $8.56 an hour relics of the past? It appears possible. On November 3, low-wage workers were given a boost when Florida passed a resolution to increase its minimum wage to $15 an hour. It has been eight years since fast-food workers walked off their jobs in New
- [Ethical dilemma: Can employers insist on Covid-19 vaccinations?](https://gp1.com/ethical-dilemma-can-employers-insist-on-covid-19-vaccinations/) - Excerpted from Personnel Today By Ashleigh Webber As the Pfizer/BioNTech Covid-19 vaccine receives approval from the UK medicines regulator, to what degree can employers insist that staff are vaccinated before returning to the workplace? Ashleigh Webber examines the ethical arguments. The news that three effective Covid-19 vaccinations have been developed – and one approved in
- [Holiday shopping and COVID-19: Is shopping in stores safe during the pandemic?](https://gp1.com/holiday-shopping-and-covid-19-is-shopping-in-stores-safe-during-the-pandemic/) - Excerpted from USA Today by The Associated Press Is shopping in stores safe during the pandemic? There are ways to reduce risk, but health experts advise avoiding it when possible. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says holiday shopping in crowded stores is a “higher risk” activity and that people should limit any
- [Want Greater Success? Do Less of This](https://gp1.com/want-greater-success-do-less-of-this/) - Excerpted from The SHRM Blog by Dan Rockwell You’re not as interesting as you think. If you’re long-winded, the people around you wish you were short-winded. Talk less. Succeed more. 5 Reasons people talk too much: 1. Thinking. Extroverts think while they talk. (If you want your team to think, make space for them to
- [Employee fraud during the pandemic: how HR can spot it and what can be done to prevent it](https://gp1.com/employee-fraud-during-the-pandemic-how-hr-can-spot-it-and-what-can-be-done-to-prevent-it/) - Excerpted from Lexology by Fox Williams LLP Fraud is endemic and it costs businesses a fortune. In its 2020 Report, the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners estimated that 5% of all revenue generated by organisations – some three and half trillion pounds globally – is lost every year through fraud committed by employees. Some of
- [Public Officials Campaign To Keep People Home For Thanksgiving](https://gp1.com/public-officials-campaign-to-keep-people-home-for-thanksgiving/) - Excerpted from NPR by Kat Lonsdorf Across the country, public officials are urging people to stay home and stay safe during the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday amid a dramatic rise in new cases of COVID-19 in nearly every state. Experts warn that the holiday week will be a crucial time for fighting the virus, and that
- [CDC warns against Thanksgiving travel as Covid-19 cases spike](https://gp1.com/cdc-warns-against-thanksgiving-travel-as-covid-19-cases-spike/) - Excerpted from Fox35 Orlando by Lara Greenberg Thanksgiving is less than a week away, and there's been a lot of talk about what you should and shouldn't do as it relates to keeping yourself and loved ones safe during the pandemic. But are people really listening? While some are keeping their plans as they always
- [Upskilling and Reskilling for the Digital Workplace](https://gp1.com/upskilling-and-reskilling-for-the-digital-workplace/) - Excerpted from The SHRM Blog by Jessica Miller-Merrell Even before 2020 forced us all into working from our kitchens, home offices, or bedrooms, the world was very much on its way towards removing the necessity for conventional workspaces. Today, younger generations have grown up with lectures and lessons online, while YouTube has also risen to
- [VLOG – David Graves offers thanks to clients in advance of the holidays!](https://gp1.com/vlog-david-graves-offers-thanks-to-clients-in-advance-of-the-holidays/) - Still working from home due to COVID-19, GroupOne Background Screening sales associate and HR guru David Graves posted a continuation of his video series today to offer thanks to both clients and co-workers alike prior to the upcoming holidays. The video is the 15th of a series David and his team will post this year
- [How do you minimize employee fatigue during COVID-19?](https://gp1.com/how-do-you-minimize-employee-fatigue-during-covid-19/) - In countless ways, the COVID-19 pandemic has touched all of us. We have tragically lost friends and relatives. We have endured never-ending lockdowns, quarantines and safety measures. What is now called the “new normal” could just as easily be called a “beatdown.” Millions of people across the globe have been forced to adapt to a
- [COVID-19 workplace exposure claims dismissed](https://gp1.com/covid-19-workplace-exposure-claims-dismissed/) - Excerpted from a Vinson & Elkins LLP blog by Christopher V. Bacon One question that employers have been asking since the onset of the pandemic is whether they could be sued by employees who get sick as a result of being exposed to an infected coworker. Plaintiffs’ and defendants’ lawyers have generally agreed that such
- [Potential Ban of Criminal Records in Tenant Screening Should Alert Landlords Everywhere](https://gp1.com/potential-ban-of-criminal-records-in-tenant-screening-should-alert-landlords-everywhere/) - Excerpted from PR Web by Dan Adams Recently, the New York City Council introduced a bill banning landlords utilizing criminal history reports as part of tenant applicant vetting. Adam Almeida, President and CEO of TenantScreeningUSA.com, states: “Any time significant legislation is introduced in a city such as New York landlords and property managers across the
- [Five things your lawyer likes to see in an HR person](https://gp1.com/five-things-your-lawyer-likes-to-see-in-an-hr-person/) - Excerpted from a Constangy Brooks Smith & Prophete LLP blog by Robin Shea HR Virtue No. 1: They have "spider sense." By the time the lawyers get called in, the harm is often done already and all we can do is grab a mop. An HR person doesn't have to be a legal expert (although
- [Hire Right. Fire Right -- 5 Reasons to Fire and the 5 “BE” Principles for Involuntary Terminations](https://gp1.com/hire-right-fire-right-5-reasons-to-fire-and-the-5-be-principles-for-involuntary-terminations/) - Excerpted from The SHRM Blog By Roxi Bahar Hewertson When you are a human resource professional or hiring leader, firing right is just as important a part of your job as is hiring right. No one wakes up in the morning looking forward to terminating a staff member’s employment. In fact, people hate it so
- [4 Things You Can Do to Get Candidates to Open Your Emails!](https://gp1.com/4-things-you-can-do-to-get-candidates-to-open-your-emails/) - Excerpted from The SHRM Blog by Tim Sackett I found some cool data that probably got overlooked a while back from CB Insights [1]. Now, this data is from 2016, but it’s super relevant! CB Insights did some testing with their own email newsletter that went out to 175K+. A very big sample and the
- [EEOC Sues Trimark Foodcraft for Disability Discrimination](https://gp1.com/eeoc-sues-trimark-foodcraft-for-disability-discrimination/) - Excerpted from JD Supra by U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) Strategic Equipment, LLC, doing business as TriMark Foodcraft, LLC, a Massachusetts-based company that specializes in the distribution of commercial kitchen equipment and supplies, violated federal law when it denied a reasonable accommodation to an accounts payable clerk and then fired her because of her
- [US election 2020: Tips on how to vote safely](https://gp1.com/us-election-2020-tips-on-how-to-vote-safely/) - Excerpted from Medical News Today by Maria Cohut, Ph.D. With the United States presidential election fast approaching and the world still in the midst of a pandemic, it is important to consider how to exercise the democratic right of voting while staying safe. In this feature, we offer some tips and advice. Voting is a
- [Trick Or Treat: COVID-19 Changes Halloween Hours, Adds Restrictions](https://gp1.com/trick-or-treat-covid-19-changes-halloween-hours-adds-restrictions/) - Excerpted The Post-Journal Jamestown officials are encouraging parents not to trick-or-treat this year and chose not to set hours or hold any city-sanctioned events on Saturday. Those who want to trick-or-treat in Jamestown can still do so. Jamestown Police Department officials said, in a news release, that those who want to participate in giving out
- [How hiring managers can attract and retain healthcare staff](https://gp1.com/how-hiring-managers-can-attract-and-retain-healthcare-staff/) - Excerpted from The SHRM Blog By Amy Solovay Globally, talent shortages top the list of the most compelling risks that all business organizations are facing. This is particularly true in the healthcare industry, where shortages of doctors, nurses and other healthcare professionals are affecting a sizable percentage of the world’s population. There are multiple reasons
- [HR case: The older man and the younger woman](https://gp1.com/hr-case-the-older-man-and-the-younger-woman/) - We read about this case online and since it is going to trial, we thought it might be of interest to our HR readers. A certain account manager, we’ll call him Mr. Schrute, was not the ideal employee. Soon after his employment began, he reportedly "spoke incoherently" at a client lunch and later had to
- [Halloween amid COVID-19: You can lower the risks of trick-or-treating, if you’re creative](https://gp1.com/halloween-amid-covid-19-you-can-lower-the-risks-of-trick-or-treating-if-youre-creative/) - Excerpted from USA Today by Dr. Gavin Yamey and Melissa Kay As public health researchers with children who are very excited about Halloween — one with a son who turns 5 on Oct. 31, and the other with a daughter desperate to dress as Katy Perry (again) — we’ve been pondering whether there’s still a
- [How to Connect While Wearing a Mask](https://gp1.com/how-to-connect-while-wearing-a-mask/) - Excerpted from The SHRM Blog by Eva Del Rio, SPHR You may have noticed it. You are pushing your shopping cart wearing your mask at the grocery store and you see another person doing the same, but you hardly bother to look in their direction or attempt to make eye contact. Before COVID, I was
- [CDC’s Expansion of “Close Contact” Definition Spells Trouble for Employers](https://gp1.com/cdcs-expansion-of-close-contact-definition-spells-trouble-for-employers/) - Excerpted from Lexology by Jackson Lewis PC On Wednesday, October 21, 2020, the CDC issued new guidance expanding the definition of a “close contact” from someone who has been within 6 feet of a COVID-19 positive person for 15 minutes or more to: “Someone who was within 6 feet of an infected person for a
- [Five more states voting this fall on legalizing marijuana](https://gp1.com/five-more-states-voting-this-fall-on-legalizing-marijuana/) - Excerpted from Roll Call by Emily Kopp Marijuana legalization advocates, afraid that efforts to win ballot initiatives would go up in smoke given the challenges of a pandemic, are fired up about chances in five states this fall. The difficulty of safely getting signatures in person helped doom marijuana legalization efforts in some states, like
- [Why you’ll still need to wear a mask even after Covid-19 vaccines arrive](https://gp1.com/why-youll-still-need-to-wear-a-mask-even-after-covid-19-vaccines-arrive/) - Excerpted from Forbes by Mark Kortepeter There have already been several research reports supporting the benefits of wearing masks in the healthcare setting and the community to reduce transmission of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. But a question on everyone’s minds is: When can we stop wearing masks? Can we stop wearing them after vaccines are available?
- [Will wearing masks reduce flu cases amid COVID-19 pandemic?](https://gp1.com/will-wearing-masks-reduce-flu-cases-amid-covid-19-pandemic/) - Excerpted from kxan by Nabil Remadna Healthcare experts are on high alert as flu season arrives amid the COVID-19 pandemic. “We are all concerned about a ‘twin-demic’,” said Dr. William Schaffner, an Infectious Disease Specialist at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville. Austinite Louise Brazitis isn’t taking any chances. She got her flu shot last
- [Medical marijuana for sale for the first time in Missouri state history](https://gp1.com/medical-marijuana-for-sale-for-the-first-time-in-missouri-state-history/) - Excerpted from Fox 2 Now by Kelley Hoskins Medical marijuana became available for purchase for the first time in state history this weekend. The first dispensaries opened in St. Louis County. The N’Bliss stores are located in Ellisville and Manchester and so far Missouri has approved 65,000 patients and another 12,000 awaiting approval. This comes
- [Do you have a “Return to Work” plan?](https://gp1.com/do-you-have-a-return-to-work-plan/) - Employees returning to work sounds simple, right? Have them wear masks, place bottles of hand sanitizer at the reception desk and practice safe social distancing. How could you go wrong? Well, in quite a few ways, actually. For most companies, it’s still too early to know when your workforce will return to the office. Here
- [Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission Reviews Lyft Background Check Process](https://gp1.com/pennsylvania-public-utility-commission-reviews-lyft-background-check-process/) - Excerpted from Wpxi News by WPXI.com News Staff How safe do you feel in a ride-share? A new state report wants Lyft to strengthen it’s background check process on drivers and improve criminal monitoring functions. “My experiences with Lyft, they’ve been pretty decent. I can say that I haven’t had a negative one,” said Kenneth
- [Employers grapple with workers’ off-duty behavior](https://gp1.com/employers-grapple-with-workers-off-duty-behavior/) - Excerpted from a McDermott Will & Emery blog by Ron Holland and Daniel R. Foster Employees gathering with friends, expressing their political views and posting about these things on social media have created for employers an increasingly urgent question: When the people engaging in unsafe or politically charged behavior are your employees, and the conduct
- [Employees are responsible for logging remote work hours](https://gp1.com/employees-are-responsible-for-logging-remote-work-hours/) - Excerpted from Lexology by Akerman LLP Employers have struggled with identifying remote working hours for non-exempt employees juggling telework, child care and/or virtual learning during the pandemic. Employees will now bear the burden of properly recording those hours, under new enforcement guidance issued by the Department of Labor (DOL) in late August. Under the federal
- [The Week in Weed](https://gp1.com/the-week-in-weed/) - Excerpted from Lexology by Seyfarth Shaw LLP Vermont’s governor allowed marijuana sales. Illinois faces another lawsuit over its licensing program. Colorado’s governor expunged criminal records. The Supreme Court denied cert in a cannabis pay case. The 9th Circuit may hear a challenge to the DEA’s marijuana scheduling. And finally, Silent Bob has his say on
- [“Equity: More Than a Refrain”](https://gp1.com/equity-more-than-a-refrain/) - Excerpted from Lexology by Quarles & Brady LLP The word “Equity” is often seen and heard in news articles, classroom settings, and certainly all over social media. But is it being heard and seen in your workplace, and is it being promoted and included in the framework of your firm’s Diversity and Inclusion initiatives? For
- [Traps for the Unwary: Responding When An Employee Quits](https://gp1.com/traps-for-the-unwary-responding-when-an-employee-quits/) - Excerpted from Lexology by Akerman LLP You may have been there: a valuable employee angered by some new development, announces “I quit!” and storms out, then shows up for work the next day as though nothing happened. Or a rapidly failing underperformer submits a written resignation, but it’s not effective until 60 days later. What’s
- [State laws on voting rights and time off to vote - plan early!](https://gp1.com/state-laws-on-voting-rights-and-time-off-to-vote-plan-early/) - Unless you’ve been living as a hermit or perhaps even on Mars, you’re probably aware there’s an election coming up on November 3. Since Election Day falls on a Tuesday, quite a few people will be expected to work – remote or in person. State laws on voting rights usually become a hot topic during
- [Confused about ‘mandatory’ hair testing regs for driver drug tests? Here’s what to know…](https://gp1.com/confused-about-mandatory-hair-testing-regs-for-driver-drug-tests-heres-what-to-know/) - Excerpted from CCJ Commercial Carrier Journal by James Jaillet The word “mandatory” has been batted around in headlines and social media posts the last few weeks describing long-in-the-works reforms to driver drug testing protocol. But what, exactly, will be mandatory for fleets? And when? In short, nothing will be mandatory for carriers, really. And as
- [What is the Most Important Component of a Diversity Plan?](https://gp1.com/what-is-the-most-important-component-of-a-dei-diversity-equity-and-inclusion-plan-access-idea/) - Excerpted from The SHRM Blog by Di Ann Sanchez, Ph.D., SPHR, SHRM – SCP For years Diversity and Inclusion Departments have been trying to be included in driving business solutions and, in my opinion, to no avail. Diversity and Inclusion strategic plans are futile because they are not built on a foundation of equity and
- [On the virtual road – GroupOne to participate in HR Southwest Conference next week](https://gp1.com/on-the-virtual-road-groupone-to-participate-in-hr-southwest-conference-next-week/) - GroupOne Background Screening’s David Graves posted an introduction video yesterday in preparation of the virtual HR Southwest Conference, October 5-7. This year’s conference will include virtual exhibit booths, business collateral for download and educational sessions on current “hot” topics. Don't fret, David will be virtually present the entire time to explain the many advantages of
- [Understanding the Tenant Background Check: A Guide for Landlords](https://gp1.com/understanding-the-tenant-background-check-a-guide-for-landlords/) - Excerpted from Millionacres by Tara Mastroeni As a landlord, it's absolutely crucial to conduct a tenant background check before you sign any leases or allow anyone to live in your rental property. If you're newer to real estate investing and aren't sure what a tenant background check entails, this guide will cover everything you need
- [Are You Covered? Warnings From Recent Face Mask Litigation](https://gp1.com/are-you-covered-warnings-from-recent-face-mask-litigation/) - Excerpted from Lexology by Morrison & Foerster LLP While the use of masks to combat the spread of COVID-19 has become a politicized issue in the United States, the scientific community largely agrees that wearing face coverings is one of the most effective ways to slow infections.[1] State and local governments have issued orders requiring
- [DC-Area Brokers and Owners Adopt New Leasing Strategies Amid COVID](https://gp1.com/dc-area-brokers-and-owners-adopt-new-leasing-strategies-amid-covid/) - Excerpted from Commercial Observer by Keith Loria Office leasing in Washington, Baltimore and pretty much nationwide has been on the decline since the start of the pandemic, and owners have had to adjust their leasing strategies in both marketing their properties and showing them to potential lessees. Because of the uncertainty surrounding COVID-19 and no
- [Ban on diversity training sends tech companies scrambling](https://gp1.com/ban-on-diversity-training-sends-tech-companies-scrambling/) - Excerpted from a Protocol story by Emily Birnbaum The country's top tech companies are mobilizing against President Trump's executive order barring federal contractors from offering diversity and inclusion training to their employees. The executive order could force tech companies with large federal government contracts — including Google, Amazon and Microsoft — to decide between continuing
- [Lawsuit filed against Target over illegal background checks](https://gp1.com/lawsuit-filed-against-target-over-illegal-background-checks/) - Excerpted from The Journal Times story by Adam Rogan “Why didn’t you tell us about the felony on your record?” the manager of a Target angrily asked Bryan Strong over the phone. “I don’t have a felony on my record,” Strong replied. That is the conversation that led to Strong being part of a class
- [Background Checks and the Fair Credit Reporting Act: Keep It Simple!](https://gp1.com/background-checks-and-the-fair-credit-reporting-act-keep-it-simple/) - Excerpted from JD Surpa by Akerman LLP - HR Defense Employers who conduct background checks, beware! It might be time to revisit your standard documents and screening processes to ensure they comply with the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). The number of lawsuits brought under the FCRA has more than doubled since 2009. FRCA litigation
- [Removing Barriers of Entry - Inclusive Job Postings will Attract Diverse Talent](https://gp1.com/removing-barriers-of-entry-inclusive-job-postings-will-attract-diverse-talent/) - Excerpted from The SHRM Blog by Jessica Miller-Merrell Too often, I’ve heard job seekers talk about obstacles that prevent them from applying for jobs with a company they’re genuinely interested in because they don’t feel like that company’s job postings speak to them. As HR professionals we struggle with candidate connection, but less-than-inclusive job postings
- [How to motivate remote employees: 5 keys to success](https://gp1.com/how-to-motivate-remote-employees-5-keys-to-success/) - Excerpted from Search HR Software by Mark Feffer For a lot of managers, a pre-pandemic employee motivation toolkit included a quick chat in the hall, the in-person warmth of a smile following critique, an impromptu meeting by the coffee machine to boost flagging spirits. But the widespread move to remote work calls for rethinking old
- [How to be an effective leader during Covid-19](https://gp1.com/how-to-be-an-effective-leader-during-covid-19/) - Excerpted from Albany Business Review By Melissa Fiorenza While you may already be an excellent employee and leader during times of crisis, chances are, a crisis of epic proportions—a global pandemic—was never on the syllabus back in school. That changes now. “The economic impact of shutting down for months, employees having to adjust to such
- [Reskilling and Upskilling Your Workforce for the Post-Covid-19 Era](https://gp1.com/reskilling-and-upskilling-your-workforce-for-the-post-covid-19-era/) - Excerpted from The SHRM Blog By Fernando Ortiz-Barbachano As employees return to the new normal, employers face tough choices regarding shortcomings in skills and knowledge that were laid bare by the forced telecommuting following the pandemic shutdown. A 2018 Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development study found that 50 percent of jobs ran the risk
- [Question of the Day: Will COVID-19 vaccinations be mandatory?](https://gp1.com/question-of-the-day-will-covid-19-vaccinations-be-mandatory/) - Excerpted from a Fredrikson & Byron PA blog by Robert C. Boisvert and Erin M. Edgerton Once there is a COVID-19 vaccine, can an employer mandate that its employees be vaccinated? Answer: In most cases, yes, if the employer allows for religious and disability exemptions, but even then, it should proceed cautiously. As the world
- [What’s Your Relationship With Masks?](https://gp1.com/whats-your-relationship-with-masks/) - Excerpted from The New York Times by Shannon Doyne Masks can be uncomfortable and hot, and they can even steam up your glasses. They hide facial expressions and can get lost or dirty. Still, health experts agree that wearing a mask in public is an important way to slow the spread of the coronavirus. In
- [Everything you ever wanted to know about Salary History Bans!](https://gp1.com/everything-you-ever-wanted-to-know-about-salary-history-bans/) - Among the many current trends in human resources, salary history bans are growing in popularity across the U.S. There was a time when employers could ask applicants about their salaries at previous jobs. Today, with a national focus on gender inequality in pay, many governments are enacting laws that prohibit employers from requesting such information.
- [14 Common Virtual Networking Mistakes To Avoid](https://gp1.com/want-to-make-valuable-connections-14-common-virtual-networking-mistakes-to-avoid/) - Excerpted from Forbes by Forbes Councils Member Networking today looks a lot different than it did a year ago. In the Covid-19 era, large conferences and indoor gatherings are off-limits for the foreseeable future, and there aren’t as many opportunities to meet new contacts in person. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t still network. There
- [Macy’s settles lawsuit over criminal background checks](https://gp1.com/macys-settles-lawsuit-over-criminal-background-checks/) - Excerpted from FN story by Sheena Butler-Young Macy’s Inc. and The Fortune Society Inc. have agreed to settle a lawsuit that accused the department store of using an unnecessarily punitive criminal history screening policy that inadvertently discriminated against minority candidates. The suit, filed by Fortune Society in June 2019 in the Southern District of New
- [GroupOne Webinar “10 Unique Features in GP1’s Screening System” posted online!](https://gp1.com/groupone-webinar-10-unique-features-in-gp1s-screening-system-posted-online/) - The GroupOne Background Screening and webinar “10 Unique Features in GroupOne’s Screening System” originally broadcast on September 3 has been posted online. The webinar detailed the many timesavers when using GroupOne’s online system. Our keynote speaker was Steve Fischer, GroupOne’s business operations wizard with years of experience utilizing our screening systems. You can view the
- [Labor Day will set course for COVID-19: 'We may have hard days ahead'](https://gp1.com/labor-day-weekend-will-set-the-course-for-the-coronavirus-this-fall-we-may-have-some-hard-days-ahead/) - Excerpted from CNBC by Will Feuer The United States is headed for a new phase of the coronavirus pandemic as the country nears the fall, temperatures drop, flu season approaches and new cases of Covid-19 appear to plateau at a dangerously high level. Labor Day this weekend is among one of the first challenges of
- [The Perils of “Zoom Justice”](https://gp1.com/the-perils-of-zoom-justice/) - Excerpted from The Crime Report story by Sarah Esther Lageson As COVID caused massive shutdowns of traditional in-person institutions, courts were faced with a dilemma. Facing severe backlogs if the courthouse doors were closed, courts quickly shifted to Zoom-based proceedings. Today, you can watch hundreds of livestream court events — many on YouTube—ranging from felony
- [Cybercrime 2020 - The Rise of “Vishing”](https://gp1.com/cybercrime-2020-the-rise-of-vishing/) - Excerpted from Lexology by Sheppard Mullin Richter & Hampton LLP As if 2020 hasn’t caused enough hardship and headaches for employers already, the FBI and U.S. Cybersecurity Infrastructure Security Agency (“CISA”) recently issued a joint Cybersecurity Advisory Alert warning employers about the rise in voice phishing, or “vishing,” scams targeting remote workers. With the mass
- [Just two days until “10 Unique Features in GP1’s Screening System” webinar!](https://gp1.com/just-two-days-until-10-unique-features-in-gp1s-screening-system-webinar/) - It’s just two days until GroupOne’s webinar “10 Unique Features in GroupOne’s Screening System” on Thursday, September 3 from 2:00-3:00 p.m., CDT. The webinar will detail the many timesavers when using GroupOne’s online system. Our keynote speaker will be Steve Fischer, GroupOne’s business operations specialist with years of experience utilizing our screening systems. Steve will
- [Coronavirus symptoms vs. allergies: How to know the difference as school year begins](https://gp1.com/coronavirus-symptoms-vs-allergies-how-to-know-the-difference-as-school-year-begins/) - Excerpted from Fox News by Amy McGorry The coronavirus and seasonal allergies have some common symptoms that can raise concerns for school kids’ parents as they head back to the classroom. To help distinguish between the two, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has provided some guidance as the school year begins. “It
- [Social justice movements and employee masks – there’s no easy answer here!](https://gp1.com/social-justice-movements-and-employee-masks-theres-no-easy-answer-here/) - As companies across the U.S. declare support for the Black Lives Matter movement, some are not allowing employees to wear masks or other attire that express solidarity with the cause. Near the GroupOne Background Screening offices in Fort Worth, an employee at a Whataburger restaurant was asked to remove her mask displaying the Black Lives
- [Webinar “10 Unique Features in GP1’s Screening System” is one week away!](https://gp1.com/webinar-10-unique-features-in-gp1s-screening-system-is-one-week-away/) - It’s just one week until GroupOne’s webinar “10 Unique Features in GroupOne’s Screening System” on Thursday, September 3 from 2:00-3:00 p.m., CDT. The webinar will detail the many timesavers when using GroupOne’s state-of-the-art online system. Our keynote speaker will be Steve Fischer, GroupOne’s business operations specialist with years of experience utilizing our screening systems. Steve
- [VLOG – David Graves talks about GroupOne’s upcoming webinar on Sept. 3!](https://gp1.com/vlog-david-graves-talks-about-groupones-upcoming-webinar-on-sept-3/) - The countdown has begun as GroupOne Background Screening’s webinar “10 Unique Features in GroupOne’s Screening System” on Thursday, September 3 from 2:00-3:00 p.m., CDT, is just eight days away! Our own HR guru and sales associate David Graves dropped a video today to discuss the complimentary event. The webinar will detail some of the many
- [VLOG – David Graves discusses Employment Credit Reports!](https://gp1.com/vlog-david-graves-discusses-employment-credit-reports/) - Still working from home due to COVID-19, GroupOne Background Screening sales associate and HR guru David Graves posted a continuation of his video series today to discuss “Employment Credit Reports.” He provides some great detail on GroupOne’s many Employment Credit Search packages! The video is the 14th of a series David and his team will
- [EEOC's opioid guidance works for all legal drugs!](https://gp1.com/eeocs-opioid-guidance-works-for-all-legal-drugs/) - Excerpted from a blog by Constangy Brooks Smith & Prophete LLP An easy-to-read guide that works for all employees using legal meds. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission recently issued new guidance documents on the rights of employees who are legally using opioids, and for their health care providers. Although aimed at employees and health care
- [With COVID-19 Resurgent, Employers Confront Privacy Issues When Testing Employees](https://gp1.com/with-covid-19-resurgent-employers-confront-privacy-issues-when-testing-employees/) - Excerpted from Lexology by Littler Mendelson PC With the resurgence of COVID-19 infections across the United States, employers are facing growing pressure to ascertain whether their employees have contracted the virus. Temperature checks and symptoms screening, while helpful, will not identify employees who are asymptomatic and potentially contagious. This gap is critical because studies show
- [Can businesses ask customers without a mask to leave the premises?](https://gp1.com/can-businesses-ask-customers-without-a-mask-to-leave-the-premises/) - During the COVID-19 pandemic, now five months and counting, many employers are struggling with unprecedented issues. At the moment, GroupOne Background Screening employees are continuing to work from home and have been doing so successfully throughout this long duration. There are tentative plans for our employees to return to their desks in September, though strict
- [VLOG – David Graves talks about Adding New Services!](https://gp1.com/vlog-david-graves-talks-about-adding-new-services/) - Still working from home due to COVID-19, GroupOne Background Screening sales associate and HR guru David Graves posted a continuation of his video series today to discuss the details about “Adding New Services.” Some great information on the variety of packages offered by GroupOne! The video is the 13th of a series David and his
- [EEOC Issues Guidance on Opioid Use by Employees](https://gp1.com/eeoc-issues-guidance-on-opioid-use-by-employees/) - Excerpted from Lexology by Barnes & Thornburg LLP The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) issued two technical assistance documents this week concerning opioid use by employees and accommodation issues under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The two documents are not binding and do not make any changes to existing law. Rather, they are meant
- [GP1 webinar “10 Unique Features in GroupOne’s Screening System” set for Sept. 3!](https://gp1.com/gp1-webinar-10-unique-features-in-groupones-screening-system-set-for-sept-3/) - GroupOne Background Screening will host a continuation of its 2020 webinar series with “10 Unique Features in GroupOne’s Screening System” on Thursday, September 3 from 2:00-3:00 p.m., CDT. The complimentary event will detail some of the many advantages and timesavers when using GroupOne’s state-of-the-art online system. The keynote speaker will be GroupOne’s own Steve Fischer,
- [Court states plaintiff can pursue FCRA claim based on background check used for termination](https://gp1.com/court-determines-plaintiff-can-pursue-fcra-claims-based-on-background-check-used-to-justify-termination/) - Excerpted from Lexology by Squire Patton Boggs The latest entry in a nearly decade-long dispute between a plaintiff and his former employer and manager, Mattiaccio v. DHA Grp., Inc., 2020 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 129464 (D.D.C. July 21, 2020) is an in-depth analysis of standing under the FCRA in the face of unclear pleading by a
- [Who Can Sue in a Car Accident Case? (More parties than you thought)](https://gp1.com/who-can-sue-in-a-car-accident-case-more-parties-than-you-thought/) - Excerpted from Lexology by Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers LLC If you have been injured in a car accident, you are likely focused on filing a lawsuit against the driver of the other vehicle. While that is always a possibility, there are others against whom you can file a personal injury claim. This can allow you to
- [Question of the Day: Remote Work Disability Accommodations](https://gp1.com/question-of-the-day-remote-work-disability-accommodations/) - Excerpted from Lexology by Fredrikson & Byron PA Question Given the prevalence of remote work during the pandemic, is working from home now presumed to be reasonable disability accommodation? Answer Although any inquiry into the reasonableness of a disability accommodation is fact-specific, we do not expect remote work to become the new standard. Analysis The
- [#NTXDoesItRight - let's stop the spread together!](https://gp1.com/ntxdoesitright-lets-stop-the-spread-together/) - GroupOne Background Screening is excited to participate in the Dallas County Health and Human Services' new campaign to promote its COVID-19 community health guidelines. In collaboration with the Dallas Mavericks, Dallas Stars and the Dallas Zoo, they have created the #NTXDoesItRight campaign to encourage North Texans to wear a mask and adhere to the latest
- [VLOG – David Graves talks Student Screenings!](https://gp1.com/vlog-david-graves-talks-student-screenings/) - Still working from home due to COVID-19, GroupOne Background Screening sales associate and HR guru David Graves posted a continuation of his video series today to discuss “Student Screenings.” Some great tips on the proper steps when screening healthcare and professional students, with detail on GroupOne’s great online services for your company! The video is
- [#NTXDoesItRight - spread the word!](https://gp1.com/ntxdoesitright-spread-the-word/) - We hope everyone is having a great Friday! We are excited to let you know that Dallas County Health and Human Services has launched a new campaign to promote its COVID-19 community health guidelines. In collaboration with the Dallas Mavericks, Dallas Stars and the Dallas Zoo, they have created the #NTXDoesItRight campaign to encourage North
- [GP1 Blog - Background screening changes during the pandemic](https://gp1.com/gp1-blog-background-screening-changes-during-the-pandemic/) - By Danny Davila, Director of FCRA Regulatory Risk and Consumer Compliance Advisor, GroupOne Background Screening Undoubtedly, the last four months have presented difficulties for talent acquisition leaders. Tasks, at one time viewed as routine, have become increasingly complex due to the closure of source providers. The instability of county court records across the U.S. has
- [COVID-19: School Reopening Jujitsu For Employers](https://gp1.com/covid-19-school-reopening-jujitsu-for-employers/) - Excerpted from Lexology by Kilpatrick Townsend & Stockton LLP A significant challenge for reopening the economy and returning to “normalcy” during the COVID-19 pandemic is addressing whether, when, and how schools and colleges will open this fall. As with the initial shelter-in-place orders and mask requirements, these issues are being addressed differently in each state.
- [Has child abuse surged under COVID-19? Despite alarming stories from ERs, there's no answer](https://gp1.com/has-child-abuse-surged-under-covid-19-despite-alarming-stories-from-ers-theres-no-answer/) - Excerpted from NBC News by Julia Ingram Preliminary data shows that reports of child abuse around the nation have plunged during the coronavirus pandemic and lockdown, according to an NBC News analysis, while experts are concerned there could be an unseen surge in abuse behind closed doors due to COVID-19 related unemployment and financial strain.
- [Are children going back to school, and how does the FFCRA apply?](https://gp1.com/are-children-going-back-to-school-and-how-does-the-ffcra-apply/) - The school districts in North Texas recently released a survey asking parents their opinion about how their children should return to school in August. We are awaiting the results, though with COVID-19 cases still at a peak in Texas, we would be surprised if the doors open over the next few weeks. There could potentially
- [Hiring practices you should never skip!](https://gp1.com/hiring-practices-you-should-never-skip/) - Here at GroupOne Background Screening, we understand that hiring the right people is important to your company’s growth and success. We’ll be the first to admit, it isn’t always easy to tell which candidates would be a good fit and which ones would clash with the rest of your team. Creating the right hiring process
- [VLOG – David Graves talks Volunteer Screenings!](https://gp1.com/vlog-david-graves-talks-volunteer-screenings/) - Still working from home for three-plus months due to COVID-19, GroupOne Background Screening sales associate and HR guru David Graves posted a continuation of his video series today to discuss “Volunteer Screenings.” Some great tips on the proper steps when screening a volunteer and the easy-to-use services GroupOne can provide to your company! The video
- [HR’s Best Friend – but only when you’re paying attention!](https://gp1.com/hrs-best-friend-but-only-when-youre-paying-attention/) - Blog by David Graves, Business Sales Representative, GroupOne Background Screening Today, my dog made a mess while I was working on my laptop. I was not paying attention and, of course, he decided to dismantle his dog toy. He not only destroyed his new toy, but he left the stuffing all over the floor in
- [Organizational Culture: It Needs to Help Employees Through Hard Times](https://gp1.com/organizational-culture-it-needs-to-help-employees-through-the-hard-times/) - Excerpted from The SHRM Blog By Sharlyn Lauby As human resources professionals, we know the importance of creating a positive candidate experience so people will come to work for our companies. And we understand that creating a positive employee experience will result in increased employee engagement, higher productivity, and reduced turnover. We also understand that
- [Job openings falling as resurgence of COVID-19 threatens recovery](https://gp1.com/job-openings-falling-again-as-resurgence-of-coronavirus-lockdowns-threaten-economic-recovery/) - Excerpted from Fox Business by Megan Henney The number of job openings in the U.S. is starting to shrink again as a resurgence of the novel coronavirus — and business shutdowns — threatens to derail the nation's gradual economic recovery from the pandemic. Over the past two weeks, job openings have fallen by 5.5 percent,
- [CDC says U.S. could get COVID-19 under control if everyone wears mask](https://gp1.com/cdc-says-u-s-could-get-coronavirus-under-control-in-one-to-two-months-if-everyone-wears-a-mask/) - Excerpted from CNBC by Berkeley Lovelace Jr.and Will Feuer The United States could get the coronavirus pandemic under control in one to two months if every American wore a mask, a top Centers for Disease Control and Prevention official said Tuesday. “The time is now,” Dr. Robert Redfield, director of the CDC, said during an
- [With COVID-19, advocate urges a new look at transitional jobs programs](https://gp1.com/with-covid-19-advocate-urges-a-new-look-at-transitional-jobs-programs/) - Excerpted from Wisconsin Examiner By Erik Gunn Even in better times, there have almost always been more people seeking work than employers had openings Just a few months ago, employers across Wisconsin and the nation were complaining about widespread shortages of people to do the jobs they were offering. Today, that’s been turned on its
- [Bipartisan bill removes barriers for people with criminal convictions to find employment](https://gp1.com/bipartisan-bill-removes-barriers-for-people-with-criminal-convictions-to-find-employment/) - Excerpted from North Central PA by NCPA Staff Building on criminal justice reforms and fulfilling a recommendation to modernize job licensing, Governor Tom Wolf signed Senate Bill 637, which removes outdated licensing barriers so skilled workers with criminal records can get a second chance and start good careers. The governor has advocated for sweeping changes
- [School openings across globe suggest ways to keep coronavirus at bay, despite outbreaks](https://gp1.com/school-openings-across-globe-suggest-ways-to-keep-coronavirus-at-bay-despite-outbreaks/) - Excerpted from Science by Jennifer Couzin-Frankel, Gretchen Vogel, Meagan Weiland Early this spring, school gates around the world slammed shut. By early April, an astonishing 1.5 billion young people were staying home as part of broader shutdowns to protect people from the novel coronavirus. The drastic measures worked in many places, dramatically slowing the spread
- [GroupOne VLOG – David Graves discusses Drug Screenings!](https://gp1.com/groupone-vlog-david-graves-discusses-drug-screenings/) - Still working from home for two-plus months due to COVID-19, GroupOne Background Screening sales associate and HR guru David Graves posted a continuation of his video series today to discuss “Drug Screenings.” Some great tips on the easy-to-use drug screening services GroupOne can provide to your company! The video is the tenth of a series
- [New video promotes wearing a mask over holiday weekend](https://gp1.com/new-video-promotes-wearing-a-mask-over-holiday-weekend/) - In a video released in advance of the Fourth of July holiday weekend by the Texas organization “Stand Tall for Small,” the message of wearing a mask to help the economy is emphasized. As stated on the public service announcement page, “Small businesses are the heartbeat of the Texas economy and have borne the brunt
- [Coronavirus: Worst could be yet to come, WHO warns](https://gp1.com/coronavirus-worst-could-be-yet-to-come-who-warns/) - Excerpted from the BBC News The worst could be still to come in the Covid-19 pandemic, the World Health Organization (WHO) has warned, six months on from when the outbreak began. WHO head Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said the virus would infect many more people if governments did not start to implement the right policies. His
- [Protests don’t appear to be driving coronavirus surge in Seattle area or elsewhere, researchers say](https://gp1.com/protests-dont-appear-to-be-driving-coronavirus-surge-in-seattle-area-or-elsewhere-researchers-say/) - Excerpted from The Seattle Times by Hal Bernton Spring brought a wave of cancellations that shut down professional baseball, basketball, concerts, movie theaters, youth sports, school plays, camping in state parks and all sorts of other events to slow the spread of the novel coronavirus. Then, on May 25, came the brutal death of George
- [Still confused about masks? Here’s the science behind how face masks prevent coronavirus](https://gp1.com/still-confused-about-masks-heres-the-science-behind-how-face-masks-prevent-coronavirus/) - Excerpted from University of California San Francisco by Nina Bai As states reopen from stay-at-home orders, many, including California, are now requiring people to wear face coverings in most public spaces to reduce the spread of COVID-19. Both the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization now recommend cloth masks
- [House bill would undermine usefulness of credit reports](https://gp1.com/house-bill-would-undermine-usefulness-of-credit-reports/) - Excerpted from ABA Banking Journal In a letter to House leadership today, the American Bankers Association expressed its opposition for H.R. 5332. Introduced by Rep. Josh Gottheimer (D-N.J.), the Protecting Your Credit Score Act of 2020 is scheduled to be considered this week. While well-intentioned, ABA noted, the current text of the bill would “make
- [Texas hits all-time high in COVID-19 cases, Gov. Abbott tightens outdoor rules](https://gp1.com/as-texas-hits-all-time-high-in-new-covid-19-cases-gov-greg-abbott-tightens-outdoor-gathering-rules/) - Excerpted from The Dallas Morning News by Robert T. Garrett Gov. Greg Abbott sternly warned Texans of “rampant” spread of coronavirus that took the state to a new high Tuesday of more than 5,000 new cases in a single day. Saying Texans should stay home unless they have a good reason to venture out, Abbott
- [New Mask Requirements in Texas](https://gp1.com/new-mask-requirements-in-texas/) - Excerpted from Lexology by Littler Mendelson PC Between June 17 and June 19, 2020, four counties in Texas issued orders mandating that businesses develop and implement a “Health and Safety Policy” that requires all employees or visitors to wear face coverings in areas or while performing activities where six feet of separation between co-workers or
- [How should we reopen hospitals that closed because of the Coronavirus?](https://gp1.com/how-should-we-reopen-hospitals-that-closed-because-of-the-coronavirus/) - Excerpted from The New York Times by Sandeep Jauhar As stay-at-home orders ease and cities reopen for business, many doctors and hospital administrators are calling for a quick return of health care to pre-pandemic levels. For months now, routine care has been postponed. Elective procedures — big moneymakers — were halted so that hospitals could
- [GroupOne VLOG – David Graves talks “International Screening”](https://gp1.com/groupone-vlog-david-graves-talks-international-screening/) - Still working from home due to COVID-19, GroupOne Background Screening sales associate and HR guru David Graves posted a continuation of his video series today to discuss “International Screening.” Some great advice on the global screening services GroupOne has been providing for over 30 years! The video is the ninth of a series David and
- [An action plan for work culture as we emerge from COVID-19](https://gp1.com/an-action-plan-for-work-culture-as-we-emerge-from-covid-19/) - Excerpted from The SHRM Blog by Dr. David Parker The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted every aspect of our lives. An unforeseen consequence that the pandemic has revealed is disparities regarding inclusion and belonging. As businesses explore options with regard to reopening, leaders are challenged with creating a workplace environment, be that virtual or face-to-face, that
- [To return or not to return to work – that is the question!](https://gp1.com/to-return-or-not-to-return-to-work-that-is-the-question/) - As Texas and the U.S. emerges from its COVID-19 lockdown, many people who have been working from their coffee tables are being called back to the office. As of June, offices in Texas are allowed to reopen as long as they implement minimum standard health protocols outlined by Texas Department of State Health Services. Make
- [Corporate Responsibility: Board’s role in COVID-19 risk management](https://gp1.com/corporate-responsibility-boards-role-in-covid-19-risk-management/) - Excerpted from Lexology by Akerman LLP As states start to lift restrictions and allow people to “return to work,” companies are left to grapple with the specifics – the when, where, and how. The decisions to be made are not merely operational; they go to the core of the businesses balancing stakeholder healthcare concerns against
- [Still trapped at home – GP1’s David Graves talks “Sanctions and Compliance”](https://gp1.com/still-trapped-at-home-gp1s-david-graves-talks-sanctions-and-compliance/) - Still working from home due to COVID-19, GroupOne Background Screening sales associate, HR guru and pantry organizer David Graves posted a continuation of his video series today to discuss “Sanctions and Compliance.” Some great tips on post-employment screening and ReChecks! The video is the eighth of a series David and his team plan to post
- [GP1 webinar “10 Things to Know About Drug Screening” posted online](https://gp1.com/gp1-webinar-10-things-to-know-about-drug-screening-posted-online/) - The GroupOne Background Screening and i3screen webinar “10 Things to Know About Drug Screening” originally broadcast on June 10 has been posted online. The complimentary event detailed best practices for drug testing including recommendations during the COVID-19 pandemic. Keynote speakers include Dr. Janelle Jaworski, medical review officer at i3screen, and John Gumina, vice president of
- [Virginia enacts “Ban the Box” for simple marijuana possession](https://gp1.com/virginia-enacts-ban-the-box-for-simple-marijuana-possession/) - Excerpted from JD Supra by McGuireWoods LLP Virginia temporarily grabbed the media’s attention away from the coronavirus on May 21, 2020 when Gov. Ralph Northam signed a bill decriminalizing simple possession of marijuana under state law. While it remains unlawful in Virginia to possess marijuana even for personal use, such possession now will result in
- [GP1 webinar “10 Things to Know About Drug Testing” is just two days away!](https://gp1.com/gp1-webinar-10-things-to-know-about-drug-testing-is-just-two-days-away/) - The GroupOne Background Screening and i3screen webinar “10 Things to Know About Drug Testing” is just two days away on Wednesday, June 10 from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m., CDT. The complimentary event will detail best practices for drug testing including recommendations during the COVID-19 pandemic. Keynote speakers include Dr. Janelle Jaworski, medical review officer at
- [GP1 webinar "10 Things to Know About Drug Screening" is next Wednesday!](https://gp1.com/gp1-webinar-10-things-to-know-about-drug-screening-is-next-wednesday/) - The GroupOne Background Screening and i3screen webinar “10 Things to Know About Drug Testing” is set for this Wednesday, June 10 from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m., CDT. The complimentary event will detail best practices for drug testing including recommendations during the COVID-19 pandemic. Keynote speakers include Dr. Janelle Jaworski, medical review officer at i3screen, and
- [6 steps for return-to work rules for Covid-19-vulnerable employees](https://gp1.com/6-steps-to-develop-return-to-work-protocols-for-employers-with-covid-19-vulnerable-employees/) - Excerpted from The Business Journals by Jayde M. Ashford As employers across the nation contemplate return-to-work protocols, many have concerns that employees with preexisting conditions may be in danger if they return to work and are exposed to Covid-19. In its latest guidance entitled "What You Should Know About COVID-19 and the ADA, the Rehabilitation
- [Just one week until GP1 webinar “10 Things to Know About Drug Testing”](https://gp1.com/just-one-week-until-gp1-webinar-10-things-to-know-about-drug-testing/) - Just one week until the GroupOne Background Screening and i3screen webinar “10 Things to Know About Drug Testing” on Wednesday, June 10 from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m., CDT. The complimentary event will detail best practices for drug testing including recommendations during the COVID-19 pandemic. Keynote speakers include Dr. Janelle Jaworski, medical review officer at i3screen,
- [Face mask policy leads to COVID-19 lawsuit against Texas restaurant](https://gp1.com/face-mask-policy-leads-to-covid-19-lawsuit-against-texas-restaurant/) - Excerpted from JD Supra by Fisher Phillips Claiming that her employer prohibited her from wearing a face covering at work despite federal recommendations and local orders that such coverings should be worn by employees, a Texas cook just sued the restaurant that she says took her off the schedule after she objected to the company
- [Still trapped at home – GP1’s David Graves talks plants and “ATS Integration”](https://gp1.com/still-trapped-at-home-gp1s-david-graves-talks-plants-and-ats-integration/) - Still working from home due to COVID-19, GroupOne Background Screening sales associate, HR guru and gardening expert David Graves posted a continuation of his video series today to discuss ATS Integration. Have you outgrown the old system and need an update? Give GroupOne a call! The video is the seventh of many David and his
- [GroupOne to host “Drug Screening” webinar on June 10](https://gp1.com/groupone-to-host-drug-screening-webinar-on-june-10/) - GroupOne Background Screening and i3screen will co-host the webinar “10 Things to Know About Drug Testing” on Wednesday, June 10 from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m., CDT. The complimentary event will detail best practices for drug testing including recommendations during the COVID-19 pandemic. Serving as keynote speakers are Dr. Janelle Jaworski, medical review officer at i3screen,
- [Beyond unemployment: How COVID-19 is affecting programs in Minnesota](https://gp1.com/beyond-unemployment-how-covid-19-is-affecting-assistance-programs-throughout-minnesota/) - Excerpted from MinnPost by Walker Orenstein Gov. Tim Walz’s restrictions on businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic have had a profound economic impact in Minnesota, causing more than 710,000 people to apply for unemployment benefits since March 16. The Twin Cities metro area alone was down more than 270,000 jobs in April compared to April of
- [WHO warns of ‘second peak’; some U.S. states see uptick in hospitalizations](https://gp1.com/who-warns-of-second-peak-some-u-s-states-see-uptick-in-hospitalizations/) - Excerpted from The Washington Post by Antonia Noori Farzan, Katie Shepherd, Rick Noack, Jennifer Hassan, Lateshia Beachum, Marisa Iati, Miriam Berger, Siobhán O'Grady, John Wagner, Kim Bellware and Felicia Sonmez The World Health Organization warned that countries could face a second peak of coronavirus case, even before a presumed second wave of infections months from
- [Still trapped at home – GP1’s Kaitlyn Ellis talks “Reference Checks”](https://gp1.com/still-trapped-at-home-gp1s-kaitlyn-ellis-talks-reference-checks/) - Working from home due to COVID-19, GroupOne Background Screening marketing coordinator Kaitlyn Ellis posted a video today to discuss “Reference Checks.” Did you know GroupOne can obtain 85% of all reference checks within two working days? The video is the sixth of many Kaitlyn and her team expect to post this year detailing the advantages
- [EEOC releases guidance on returning employees to work and ADA compliance](https://gp1.com/eeoc-releases-new-guidance-to-employers-on-returning-employees-to-work-and-ada-compliance/) - Excerpted from The National Law Review by Gary Enis and Alan J. Marcuis Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, the EEOC has periodically released updates to its Technical Assistance Questions and Answers, “What You Should Know About COVID-19 and the ADA, the Rehabilitation Act, and Other EEO Laws,” which Hunton previously posted about here and here. These
- [A Clean Slate in the Age of Coronavirus](https://gp1.com/a-clean-slate-in-the-age-of-coronavirus/) - Excerpted from Inside Sources by Rebecca Vallas and Sharon Dietrich With jobless claims topping an unprecedented 30 million and counting, nearly half of American workers may be unemployed by mid-May. We are already in a recession; the only uncertainty is how bad it will get — and how long it will last. Meanwhile, one group
- [Filling the time during furlough #COVID19](https://gp1.com/filling-the-time-during-furlough-covid19/) - Excerpted from The SHRM Blog by Kiran.Ali Is your job affected by the COVID-19 crisis? Are you on furlough for the next couple of months? If so, use this time to engage in activities that encourage growth, and mental and physical wellness. Here are some recommendations for how to use this time to set yourself
- [GP1 Blog - Background Checks during the COVID-19 pandemic](https://gp1.com/background-checks-during-the-covid-19-pandemic/) - The process of hiring new employees may have slowed down during the unprecedented conditions of the COVID-19 pandemic, but it has most certainly not stopped. Background checks are an important part of a company's hiring strategy during both normal and abnormal times. Diligently working from home during this crisis, the team at GroupOne Background Screening
- [GP1 Blog - Background screening impacted by COVID-19](https://gp1.com/gp1-blog-background-screening-impacted-by-covid-19/) - By Danny Davila, Director of FCRA Regulatory Risk and Consumer Compliance Advisor, GroupOne Background Screening After working for two major healthcare systems, the importance of emergency response planning was drilled into the workforce regularly. At GroupOne Background Screening, we understood once the COVID-19 pandemic was declared, it was important for us to execute our business
- [Still trapped at home – GP1’s David Graves talks “WebVerify”](https://gp1.com/still-trapped-at-home-gp1s-david-graves-talks-webverify/) - Still working from home due to the COVID-19 crisis, GroupOne Background Screening sales associate and HR guru David Graves posted a continuation of his video series today to discuss WebVerify. Learn more about this innovative new service provided by GroupOne! The video is the fifth of many David and his team expect to post this
- [Getting a job with a criminal record post COVID-19](https://gp1.com/getting-a-job-with-a-criminal-record-post-covid-19/) - Excerpted from Lexology by Amal Law Group With unemployment skyrocketing at an unprecedented rate because of COVID-19, there is no doubt that many individuals with a criminal record will find their past resurfacing, if not haunting them, as they apply for new work. The good news is that legal tools are available to getting a
- [Going beyond protocol: Strategies for workplace re-entry](https://gp1.com/going-beyond-protocol-strategies-for-workplace-re-entry/) - Excerpted from Lexology by Taft Stettinius & Hollister LLP COVID-19 is an unusual crisis and complicated for employers and leaders to navigate. It is distinct from other devastating situations like shootings, terrorist attacks, tornados, hurricanes or fire in that this particular “disaster” is fluid and present for a prolonged period. It isn’t a singular event
- [GroupOne’s WebVerify (VOE and VOI Services) – Fast, Free and Secure](https://gp1.com/groupones-webverify-voe-and-voi-services-fast-free-and-secure/) - We care. Here at GroupOne Background Screening, we want our clients to know we are here for you. We know that in today’s uncertain times, providing Verification of Employment (VOE) may be difficult. Many offices are closed. Employees are working remotely. Turnaround times are mired in confusion. Please know GroupOne is dedicated to making your
- [Compliance in a Time of Crisis](https://gp1.com/compliance-in-a-time-of-crisis/) - Excerpted from Lexology by Skadden Arps Slate Meagher & Flom LLP Addressing the Evolving Risks Warren Buffett said that “only when the tide goes out do you discover who’s been swimming naked.” Buffett was not talking about compliance programs in a time of crisis, but his wisdom applies there, too. The COVID-19 pandemic has companies
- [Where We Go From Here: Using the OZ Act to Move Beyond Covid-19](https://gp1.com/where-we-go-from-here-using-the-oz-act-to-move-beyond-covid-19/) - Excerpted from Lexology by Sullivan & Worcester LLP How will the United States recover from the COVID-19 pandemic? At least part of the answer may be by making a few critically important tweaks to the Opportunity Zone tax incentives contained in Code Section 1400Z-2 (the “OZ Act”). The OZ Act was specially designed to promote
- [COVID-19: Read this before you take the temperatures of your customers, visitors or employees](https://gp1.com/covid-19-read-this-before-you-take-the-temperatures-of-your-customers-visitors-or-employees/) - Excerpted from Lexology by Kilpatrick Townsend & Stockton LLP You want to reopen your place of business, and certainly do not want to harm your customers or employees in doing so. Safety from COVID-19 in your establishment is simply not something you can offer, however. No organization will have enough COVID-19 (diagnostic and antibody) tests
- [Our Time is Now!!](https://gp1.com/our-time-is-now/) - Excerpted from The SHRM Blog by Steve Browne Can you feel and see the rumblings of the next phase of the COVID-19 crisis on the horizon? We’ve been in a mix of constant change, uncertainty and regulatory direction. People are getting antsy. People are getting even more expressive and emotional. The feeling isn’t all good
- [Still trapped at home, GP1’s official Salsa King David Graves discusses criminal background screening](https://gp1.com/still-trapped-at-home-gp1s-official-salsa-king-david-graves-discusses-criminal-background-screening/) - Still working from home due to the COVID-19 crisis, GroupOne Background Screening sales associate, HR guru and salsa king David Graves posted a continuation of his video series this afternoon to discuss criminal background screenings. Plus, there’s an impromptu cameo from his pet cat. The video is the fourth of many David and his team
- [COVID-19: What should employers consider as they adapt their background screening program?](https://gp1.com/covid-19-what-should-employers-consider-as-they-adapt-their-background-screening-program/) - Excerpted from Forbes by Alonzo Martinez Businesses continue to operate despite the global reach of COVID-19. And while some industries are seeing a momentary downturn in hiring, others are experiencing a seemingly insatiable need for talent. From workers supporting the supply chain to healthcare professionals on the frontlines of the battle against COVID-19, the need
- [From Lockdown to a Showdown: What questions should companies consider to “reopen” the economy?](https://gp1.com/from-lockdown-to-a-showdown-what-questions-should-companies-consider-to-reopen-the-economy/) - Excerpted from Lexology by Paul Hastings LLP As the discussion about “reopening” the economy intensifies, an important legal question has arisen: What authority, if any, does the federal government have to allow employees to return to work in the face of state and county stay-at-home orders? To date, President Trump has declared his intent of
- [Trapped at home – GP1’s Kaitlyn Ellis discusses employment verifications](https://gp1.com/trapped-at-home-gp1s-kaitlyn-ellis-discusses-employment-verifications/) - Trapped at home due to the COVID-19 pandemic, GroupOne Background Screening Marketing Coordinator Kaitlyn Ellis posted a video this afternoon to provide some interesting tips on employment verifications. So, learn the scoop from our resident expert! The video is the third in a series GroupOne plans to post throughout the year detailing the advantages of
- [Why workplace disability inclusion matters now more than ever](https://gp1.com/why-workplace-disability-inclusion-matters-now-more-than-ever/) - Excerpted from The SHRM Blog by Nora Genster The COVID-19 pandemic has created a profound shift in workplaces across the United States and the world. “Because we’ve always done it that way” is suddenly out the window. Instead, much of the American workforce has had to get creative and find new ways of working. In
- [How to stay mentally healthy during the COVID-19 pandemic](https://gp1.com/how-to-stay-mentally-healthy-during-the-covid-19-pandemic/) - Excerpted from The SHRM Blog by Osasumwen Arigbe, PHR Since the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak became a global concern, the world has experienced a whirlwind of unexpected events and emotions. In every direction I turn to, I get a heartbreaking report about the spread of the virus. I hear about new cases of infected patients,
- [Are essential employees required to wear masks in the workplace?](https://gp1.com/are-essential-employees-required-to-wear-masks-in-the-workplace/) - Excerpted from Lexology by Crowell & Moring LLP On Friday, April 3, 2020, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued guidance recommending that individuals wear cloth face coverings, or masks, to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. The guidance “recommends wearing cloth face coverings in public settings where other social distancing measures are
- [Checklist for Managing Work-From-Home Employees During the Pandemic](https://gp1.com/checklist-for-managing-work-from-home-employees-during-the-pandemic/) - Excerpted from Lexology by Baker McKenzie The COVID-19 pandemic has forced employers to require many employees to work from home. To assist employers in updating and implementing these measures, we recommend the following best practices. •Establish and Maintain the Right to Impose Work-From-Home (“WFH”) When Necessary. To-date, most WFH policies and procedures (“WFH policies”) establish
- [Covid-19 numbers show promise, but health experts warn each state is a different battleground](https://gp1.com/covid-19-numbers-show-promise-but-health-experts-warn-each-state-is-a-different-battleground/) - Excerpted from CNN by Amir Vera and Eliott C. McLaughlin The sun could be piercing the clouds in the United States' coronavirus fight, as the number of new cases declined over two consecutive days, but experts warn different states will see different peaks. More than 22,000 people have died from Covid-19 since the virus arrived
- [Good Cyber Hygiene and Enhanced Vigilance are crucial when your workforce goes remote](https://gp1.com/good-cyber-hygiene-and-enhanced-vigilance-are-crucial-when-your-workforce-goes-remote/) - Excerpted from Lexology by Kramer Levin Naftalis & Frankel LLP As organizations transition to the work-from-home environment, the risks of cyber fraud grow even more acute. Fraudsters are seeking to exploit remote workforces to gain access to valuable confidential and personally identifiable information, using timely phishing and man-in-the-middle scams as well as standard firewall and
- [Still trapped at home – GP1’s David Graves continues video series](https://gp1.com/still-trapped-at-home-gp1s-david-graves-continues-video-series/) - Still working from home due to the COVID-19 crisis, GroupOne Background Screening Business Sales Associate and HR guru David Graves posted his second video this afternoon to discuss, well, working from home. And it’s not as easy as it sounds, as we’re sure many of you can relate to. The video is the second of
- [Women Are Losing More Jobs in Coronavirus Shutdowns](https://gp1.com/women-are-losing-more-jobs-in-coronavirus-shutdowns/) - Excerpted from NRP by Scott Horsley The coronavirus has dealt a body blow to U.S. workers. So far, it's women who are paying much of the price. The Labor Department says more than 700,000 jobs were eliminated in the first wave of pandemic layoffs last month. Nearly 60% of those jobs were held by women.
- [FMCSA Addresses Potential Disruptions to Drug And Alcohol Testing During COVID-19 Crisis](https://gp1.com/fmcsa-addresses-potential-disruptions-to-drug-and-alcohol-testing-during-covid-19-crisis/) - Excerpted from Lexology by Jackson Lewis PC The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration issued guidance on March 24, 2020 to address potential disruptions to mandated drug and alcohol testing during the COVID-19 crisis. The FMCSA guidance, which will remain in effect until June 30, 2020, states in pertinent part: The Federal
- [Why Covid-19 might make you rethink your smoking habits](https://gp1.com/why-covid-19-might-make-you-rethink-your-smoking-habits/) - Excerpted from CNN by John Maa A college friend who is now a physician first introduced me to an electronic cigarette in 2008. He purchased his online from China with the hope of transitioning from smoking to vaping but found himself using both instead. A few years later, he shared a pleasant surprise -- he
- [DOL publishes rule implementing coronavirus leave law](https://gp1.com/dol-publishes-rule-implementing-coronavirus-leave-law/) - Excerpted from HR Dive by Ryan Golden Dive Brief: •The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) released a temporary rulemaking April 1 implementing the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FCCRA). The rule is effective through Dec. 31, the agency said. •Among other things, the regulations make clear that an employee may elect to use — or
- [Trapped at home – GP1’s David Graves discusses Electronic I9 Solutions](https://gp1.com/trapped-at-home-gp1s-david-graves-discusses-electronic-i9-solutions/) - Working from home due to the COVID-19 crisis, GroupOne Background Screening Business Sales Associate and HR guru David Graves posted a video this afternoon to discuss the Electronic I9 Solution. The video is the first of many David expects to post this year detailing the advantages of GroupOne’s services when providing background, pre-employment, student and
- [Six feet may not be enough to prevent Coronavirus spread, MIT Professor says](https://gp1.com/six-feet-may-not-be-enough-to-prevent-coronavirus-spread-mit-professor-says/) - Excerpted from NBC Boston by Abby Vervaeke MIT professor says disease transmission models used by CDC and WHO could be outdated. The six-foot separation recommendation may not be enough in preventing the spread of coronavirus, says a Massachusetts Institute of Technology professor. Local and federal officials have asked residents to practice social distancing and stay
- [What COVID-19 Means for the Future of Remote Work](https://gp1.com/what-covid-19-means-for-the-future-of-remote-work/) - Excerpted from Builtin by Mike Thomas The coronavirus pandemic has forced millions of employees to work from home. In the months and years ahead, experts say remote work will only become more prevalent. As remote work becomes increasingly necessary across America and around the world during the COVID-19 pandemic, there’s no shortage of advice on
- [COVID-19 Inquiries and Disclosures in the Workplace](https://gp1.com/covid-19-inquiries-and-disclosures-in-the-workplace/) - Excerpted from Lexology by Akerman, LLP Once an employee has been exposed to a suspected or confirmed case of COVID-19, what do you do? Once an employee has tested positive, what do you say? How does an employer walk the fine line between protecting the privacy of affected individuals and ensuring the safety of others
- [COVID-19 closures spark surge in unemployment claims](https://gp1.com/covid-19-closures-spark-surge-in-unemployment-claims/) - Excerpted from BenefitdPro by Katie Kuehner-Hebert Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin warned that the U.S. unemployment rate could rise to 20 percent if something isn't done. Unemployment will likely skyrocket due to COVID-19, prompting the federal government and states to expand eligibility for unemployment benefits and paid leave for affected workers. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin on
- [How to Stay Social at a Distance: Combating the Isolation Wave](https://gp1.com/how-to-stay-social-at-a-distance-combating-the-isolation-wave-coronavirus/) - Excerpted The SHRM Blog by Michael "Dr. Woody" Woodward, PhD Just last week major corporations began implementing voluntary work from home policies that have quickly become mandatory as sweeping and very draconian social distancing measures are being mandated by major municipalities across the country. Working from home often conjures images of kicking back on the
- [Changes to State Unemployment Laws During the COVID-19 Pandemic](https://gp1.com/changes-to-state-unemployment-laws-during-the-covid-19-pandemic/) - Excerpted from Lexology by Adams and Reese LLP Many states have revised and expanded unemployment-benefits coverage for employees affected by coronavirus-related layoffs, shutdowns, and work-hour reductions. Some states are also requiring employers to file claims on behalf of affected employees, creating incentives for employers to do so, and streamlining the process for employer-filed claims. Here
- [Employer obligations under the new “Families First Coronavirus Response Act”](https://gp1.com/employer-obligations-under-the-new-families-first-coronavirus-response-act/) - Excerpted from a Lexology blog by Cohen & Gresser LLP The Families First Coronavirus Response Act (the “Act”) was signed into law on March 18, 2020. The Act provides paid sick and protected job leave for employees who are unable to work because they, or their family members, are impacted by COVID-19. The Act is
- [COVID-19 and Cyber-Readiness - Good Practices for Remote Work](https://gp1.com/covid-19-and-cyber-readiness-good-practices-for-remote-work/) - Excerpted from Lexology by Perlman & Perlman LLP COVID-19 has been dominating the news, and with good reason. While the situation is certainly “fluid”, it is likely that many organizations will at some point be asking their employees to work remotely; it is important to remember that doing so it not without its risks. As
- [Senators press Jeff Bezos on Amazon’s coronavirus workplace safety measures](https://gp1.com/senators-press-jeff-bezos-on-amazons-coronavirus-workplace-safety-measures/) - Excerpted from The Seattle Times by Benjamin Romano Four U.S. senators pressed Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos on Friday for details on how the company is keeping its workers safe, after one of its U.S. warehouse employees tested positive for COVID-19 in New York. Two New York employees of Amazon-owned Whole Foods Market have also tested
- [An unprecedented group of immigration prosecutors, lawyers, and judges are calling for courts to be closed](https://gp1.com/an-unprecedented-group-of-immigration-prosecutors-lawyers-and-judges-are-calling-for-courts-to-be-closed/) - Excerpted from BuzzFeed News by Hamed Aleaziz The union representing Immigration and Customs Enforcement prosecutors joined immigration judges and lawyers in calling for the immediate shutdown of courts across the country to curb the spread of the coronavirus, an unprecedented alliance that signals the deep anxiety that has spread through all facets of the US
- [8 Questions Employers Should Ask About Coronavirus](https://gp1.com/8-questions-employers-should-ask-about-coronavirus/) - Excerpted from Harvard Business Review by Jeff Levin-cherz and Deana Allen The coronavirus outbreak that originated in Wuhan, China has spread to at least 144 countries and has sickened more than 204,000 people, with more than 8,000 deaths. Governments have shut borders and imposed quarantines, and companies have imposed travel bans. The human and economic
- [How to keep your workplace clean and yourself healthy during the novel coronavirus outbreak](https://gp1.com/how-to-keep-your-workplace-clean-and-yourself-healthy-during-the-novel-coronavirus-outbreak/) - Excerpted from CNN by Scottie Andrew and Yiwen Niu You may spend more waking hours at work than you do at home, but when was the last time you really, really cleaned your workspace? Offices provide hundreds of microscopic hiding spots for viruses and bacteria -- the crevices in your keyboard, the button for your
- [As Coronavirus spreads, some courts shutter, others carry on](https://gp1.com/as-coronavirus-spreads-some-courts-shutter-others-carry-on/) - Excerpted from Law.com by ALM Staff Judicial systems across the nation have implemented a patchwork of policies to deal with the virus, including canceling in-person hearings or requiring litigants to alert the court if they feel ill. A patchwork of courts across the nation are acting in different ways to protect staff and visitors as
- [What Employers Should Consider Amid The Coronavirus Outbreak](https://gp1.com/what-employers-should-consider-amid-the-coronavirus-outbreak/) - Excerpted from Forbes by Alonzo Martinez The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have labeled COVID-19 (the coronavirus) as a public health emergency. With anxiety surging following the pervasive coverage of the spread of the coronavirus, employers must prepare to address the concerns of their workers. By the Numbers As of this report, the number
- [GroupOne webinar “Top-10 HR Horror Stories” posted online!](https://gp1.com/groupone-webinar-top-10-hr-horror-stories-posted-online/) - From “zombie-like” behavior in the workplace to one of the most shocking background checks in history, GroupOne Background Screening kicked off its 2020 Webinar Series with “My Top-10 HR Horror Stories” yesterday. The webinar has now been posted online. GroupOne’s David Graves, a sales consultant and an HR soldier for over two decades, served as
- [GP1 Webinar “Top-10 HR Horror Stories” tomorrow!](https://gp1.com/gp1-webinar-top-10-hr-horror-stories-tomorrow/) - From a smell that wouldn't die to one of the most shocking background checks in history, GroupOne Background Screening will kick off its 2020 Webinar Series with “My Top-10 HR Horror Stories” on Thursday, March 12 from 2:00-3:00 p.m. CST. GroupOne’s David Graves, a sales consultant and an HR soldier for over two decades, will
- [Parents concerned over school volunteer background checks after security lapse](https://gp1.com/parents-concerned-over-school-volunteer-background-checks-after-security-lapse/) - Excerpted from Pittsburgh's Action News by Elena LaQuatra Parents in the Norwin School District are concerned after a volunteer facing criminal charges was in attendance during a production of the middle school musical. Parents expressed their concerns at a meeting Monday night. School officials said the individuals had previously submitted proper volunteer clearances, but later
- [Thorough background checks should be standard policy for school districts](https://gp1.com/thorough-background-checks-should-be-standard-policy-for-school-districts/) - Excerpted from Chicago Tribune by Randy Blaser When I wanted to coach my sons’ youth baseball team, I had to submit to a criminal background check. And when I wanted to go on a camp out when they were in the Boy Scouts, I had to submit to a criminal background check. When I volunteered
- [HR Webinar “Top-10 HR Horror Stories” just one week away!](https://gp1.com/hr-webinar-top-10-hr-horror-stories-just-one-week-away/) - From “zombie-like” behavior in the workplace to one of the most shocking background checks in history, GroupOne Background Screening will kick off its 2020 Webinar Series with “My Top-10 HR Horror Stories” on Thursday, March 12 from 2:00-3:00 p.m. CST. GroupOne’s David Graves, a sales consultant and an HR soldier for over two decades, will
- [Background checks failed to catch RSCVA ex-CEO DeLone’s history of harassment suits](https://gp1.com/background-checks-failed-to-catch-rscva-ex-ceo-delones-history-of-harassment-suits/) - Excerpted from Reno Gazette Journal by Jason Hidalgo Background checks on Phil DeLone, then a candidate for CEO of the Reno Sparks Convention and Visitors Authority, failed to catch two lawsuits alleging workplace harassment in two states, a Reno Gazette Journal investigation found. The lawsuits, which are public documents available through a court records search,
- [GroupOne’s drug testing – money in your pocket!](https://gp1.com/groupones-drug-testing-money-in-your-pocket/) - Simply put, GroupOne’s Drug Testing is money in your company’s pocket. Employment drug testing is a powerful tool that provides far-reaching company benefits. Today, more than 65% of companies utilize drug testing programs. Here’s the advantages: • Drug testing programs decrease absenteeism by 50%; • Drug testing programs decrease workers’ compensation incidence rates by 50%;
- [EEOC sues Yale Hospital alleging Age/Disability discrimination](https://gp1.com/eeoc-sues-yale-hospital-alleging-age-disability-discrimination/) - Excerpted from Orthopedics This Week Inc. by Kim DelMonico The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has sued Yale New Haven Hospital (YNHH) in federal court, charging that YNHH’s requirement that medical staff age 70 and older undergo cognitive testing violates federal anti-discrimination law. The EEOC filed suit under the Age Discrimination in Employment Act
- [Webinar “Top-10 HR Horror Stories” set for March 12!](https://gp1.com/webinar-top-10-hr-horror-stories-set-for-march-12/) - From “payment by truck” to one of the most shocking background checks in history, GroupOne Background Screening will kick off its 2020 Webinar Series with “My Top-10 HR Horror Stories” on Thursday, March 12 from 2:00-3:00 p.m. CST. GroupOne’s David Graves, a sales consultant and an HR soldier for over two decades, will serve as
- [Experts say 'ban the box' could improve eviction rate and help with homelessness](https://gp1.com/inside-the-statehouse-experts-say-ban-the-box-bill-could-improve-eviction-rate-and-help-with-homelessness/) - Excerpted from KIVI BOISE by Madeline White The affordable housing crisis is difficult for everyone -- but it's especially hard on those with criminal histories, since finding a place to rent can sometimes feel next to impossible. Housing experts say Idahoans with criminal convictions are facing eviction crises at alarming rates. But the Fair Chance
- [Truck drivers can fail a drug test yet remain behind the wheel](https://gp1.com/even-under-clearinghouse-truck-drivers-can-fail-a-drug-test-yet-remain-behind-the-wheel/) - Excerpted from CCJ Commercial Carrier Journal by James Jaillet The U.S. DOT’s new database of drivers who have failed or refused a drug test is meant to restrict the ability of drivers who didn’t pass a drug test from holding or gaining employment as a truck driver. But new numbers released Friday by DOT reveal
- [Medford restaurant sued by EEOC over sexual harassment](https://gp1.com/medford-restaurant-sued-by-eeoc-over-sexual-harassment/) - Excerpted from The Register-Guard by The Associated Press A civil rights lawsuit filed by a federal agency accuses the owners of a Medford restaurant of subjecting employees to sexual abuse and harassment, even after a manager was convicted on a criminal charge of harassment involving an employee. The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission filed a
- [GP1 kicks off 2020 Webinar Series with “Top-10 HR Horror Stories”](https://gp1.com/gp1-kicks-off-2020-webinar-series-with-top-10-hr-horror-stories/) - From employees rising from the dead to one of the most shocking background checks in history, GroupOne Background Screening will kick off its 2020 Webinar Series with “My Top-10 HR Horror Stories” on Thursday, March 12 from 2:00-3:00 p.m. CST. GroupOne’s David Graves, a sales consultant and an HR soldier for over two decades, will
- [Oakland bans criminal background checks on renters](https://gp1.com/oakland-california-bans-criminal-background-checks-on-renters/) - Excerpted from US News by Trevor Bach California's affordable housing nightmare is well known: More than 40% of residents are now classified as housing cost-burdened, the highest proportion of any state. In many cities in the San Francisco Bay Area, the nation's tightest housing market, the median rent for a one-bedroom apartment now exceeds $2,500,
- [GP1 Blog - Social Media’s role in talent screening](https://gp1.com/gp1-blog-social-medias-role-in-talent-screening/) - By Danny Davila, Director of FCRA Regulatory Risk and Consumer Compliance Advisor, GroupOne Background Screening Our workforce is truly a connected population. Today, talent acquisition has incorporated social media extensively when sourcing and recruiting. This comes with its own unique risks HR professionals should be aware of. In a CareerBuilder survey, it was reported 70
- [Clear your Volunteer – GroupOne’s volunteer screening provides FCRA coverage](https://gp1.com/clear-your-volunteer-groupones-volunteer-screening-provides-fcra-coverage/) - Here at GroupOne Background Screening, we’ve been checking on volunteers of our clients for over 20 years. Volunteers are screened for the same reason employers conduct background checks – to verify identity and eliminate problems that could arise from an undisclosed criminal history. Laws requiring volunteer screenings ask for a check of criminal history and
- [Is “open hiring” an Impossible Whopper, or just a “whopper?”](https://gp1.com/is-open-hiring-an-impossible-whopper-or-just-a-whopper/) - It sounds like a great idea. You walk into a store looking for a job and are asked three simple questions: 1. Are you authorized to work in the U.S.? 2. Can you stand for up to eight hours? 3. Can you lift more than 50 pounds? If the answer is “Yes” to all three,
- [Moundsville officials to start performing background checks on coaches](https://gp1.com/moundsville-officials-to-start-performing-background-checks-on-coaches/) - Excerpted from WTFR.com by Aliah Keller, Shelby Davis The City of Moundsville is gearing up to do background checks on its coaches. City officials say that although schools in the area are already completing background checks, these are for any recreational league in Moundsville. That’s including upcoming softball and baseball teams this Spring. Come Fall,
- [What should we do in response to harassment & discrimination issues in the workplace?](https://gp1.com/what-should-we-do-in-response-to-harassment-discrimination-issues-in-the-workplace/) - Excerpted from The SHRM Blog by Andrew Botwin As a Human Resources leader for a couple decades, turned neutral workplace investigator and educator around sexual harassment and discrimination issues in the workplace, I have experienced first-hand the many practical challenges we all have around what we should do when we become aware of potential harassment
- [EEOC Sues Doubletree Hotel in Jefferson City for Sexual Harassment](https://gp1.com/eeoc-sues-doubletree-hotel-in-jefferson-city-for-sexual-harassment/) - Excerpted from The National Law Review by U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission Two operators of a DoubleTree hotel in Jefferson City, Mo., violated federal law when they allowed a male room inspector to sexually harass a female housekeeper, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) charged in a lawsuit today. According to the EEOC, Vinca
- [States use Catholic clergy abuse lists to screen applicants](https://gp1.com/states-use-catholic-clergy-abuse-lists-to-screen-applicants/) - Excerpted from The Columbian by Claudia Lauer and Maghan Hoyer In the wake of revelations that scores of Roman Catholic priests and religious workers credibly accused of child sexual abuse are living unsupervised in communities across the country, state officials face a quandary: Should they screen former clergy members who seek licenses for jobs that
- [FBI won’t run background checks on Missouri medical marijuana employees until law is passed](https://gp1.com/fbi-wont-run-background-checks-on-missouri-medical-marijuana-employees-until-law-is-passed/) - Excerpted from The Kansas City Star by Crystal Thomas Hundreds of hopefuls are expected at job fairs for the medical marijuana industry within the next week, but one legal hiccup may stand in their way of employment. Last May, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) informed the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS),
- [Sexual harassment payouts hit all-time high In 2019](https://gp1.com/sexual-harassment-payouts-hit-all-time-high-in-2019/) - Excerpted from Lexology by Fisher Phillips Employers paid out a record $68.2 million to those alleging sexual harassment violations through the EEOC in 2019, shattering the record by over $10 million and reminding us all that the #MeToo movement continues to be a major influence on workplaces across the country. This is just one of
- [February participation begins for GroupOne’s Salary Surveys](https://gp1.com/february-participation-begins-for-groupones-salary-surveys/) - This month is “survey time” at GroupOne, with three annual human resources surveys conducted from February 1-29. The annual Pay Practices Survey and Benefit Practices Survey provide valuable benchmarking data from across Texas. Participation is free and reports are available for $225 a survey. Survey links will be sent to GroupOne clients and other healthcare
- [On the road – GroupOne visiting THEHRA Conference in San Antonio](https://gp1.com/on-the-road-groupone-visiting-thehra-conference-in-san-antonio/) - GroupOne Background Screening is traveling to San Antonio for the Texas Higher Education Human Resources Association (THEHRA) Winter Conference, February 2-4 at the Omni La Mansion Hotel. It’s a loaded lineup with more than 10 speakers detailing cutting edge HR analytics, dangers of the Internet, civil rights issues and legal updates. When not enjoying San
- [New bill - Testing positive for pot disqualifies you for most WA jobs](https://gp1.com/testing-positive-for-pot-wouldnt-disqualify-you-from-most-wa-jobs-under-new-bill/) - Excerpted from Crosscut by Melissa Santos Weed use has been legal in Washington state since 2012, but so has refusing to hire adults who lawfully consume the drug. Washington led the nation in 2012 when it became one of the first two states to legalize adult use of recreational marijuana. When it comes to ensuring
- [Creating a culture of contribution by asking for help](https://gp1.com/creating-a-culture-of-contribution-by-asking-for-help/) - Excerpted from an SHRM Blog by Wayne Baker Ph.D. In the workplace, asking for help can mean the difference between success and failure. This isn’t anecdotal—in fact, research has revealed several proven benefits, such as: • Higher job performance and satisfaction. • New-hire success. • Finding jobs—or talent for job openings. • Creativity and innovation.
- [Why is there such a decrease in EEOC filings? Is this good?](https://gp1.com/why-is-there-such-a-decrease-in-eeoc-filings-is-this-good/) - Excerpted from Lexology by FisherBroyles LLP The EEOC just released its always-interesting yearly breakdown of charges filed and resolved. At the end of every fiscal year, which ends September 30th, the EEOC issues in a press release its “results” with respect to number of cases files and completed, the amount of money recovered for employees,
- [Dating apps - do background checks to stop sexual assaults](https://gp1.com/dating-apps-need-to-start-doing-background-checks-on-users-to-help-stop-sexual-assaults/) - Excerpted from CNN by Kara Alaimo Last week, Tinder announced that it was adding some new safety features to its app, including a panic button to call for help and a photo-verification tool. Match, which owns Tinder, plans to unveil the features on its other dating services later this year. While these are well-intended efforts
- [Developing the Mindset for Inclusive Leadership](https://gp1.com/developing-the-mindset-for-inclusive-leadership/) - Excerpted from The SHRM Blog by Deborah Stadtler Efforts to reduce workplace bias and inclusion have become widespread, yet the demographics of leadership positions at most organizations remain unchanged. Research demonstrates that organizations with diverse representation and inclusive practices perform better. Last year The Wall Street Journal analyzed companies in the S&P 500 and reported
- [Oakland votes to bar landlords from conducting background checks](https://gp1.com/oakland-votes-to-bar-landlords-from-conducting-background-checks/) - Excerpted from The Mercury News by Marisa Kendall Oakland on Tuesday moved to become the first city in the state to ban landlords from investigating the criminal history of renters applying for both public and private housing. The Fair Chance Housing Ordinance, which the City Council passed unanimously Tuesday evening, will prohibit landlords from rejecting
- [Serious Security – Your data is safe with GroupOne!](https://gp1.com/serious-security-your-data-is-safe-with-groupone/) - At GroupOne Background Screening, we are always in “lockdown.” We understand how important your data is, so we go to great lengths to keep your information safe! All connections are via HTTPS and have a minimum of 128-bit encryption. A 256-bit AES encryption is the goal we aim for whenever applicable. Your organization’s users can
- [Most Nevada employers no longer use pre-employment marijuana tests](https://gp1.com/most-employers-in-nevada-can-no-longer-utilize-pre-employment-drug-tests-for-marijuana/) - Excerpted from 3News Las Vegas by Max Darrow Nevada is now the first state that bans most employers from utilizing pre-employment drug tests for marijuana as a hiring practice. “That really opens up their job pool and allows for that much more normalization in this state, and you’re going to see many other states, too,
- [Trump considers allowing drug testing of food stamp recipients](https://gp1.com/trump-administration-considers-allowing-states-to-drug-test-food-stamp-recipients/) - Excerpted from KMVT by Sherley Boursiquot Twin Falls, Idaho currently asks families needing temporary assistance to take drug screening. However, another proposal under the Trump administration could ask food stamp recipients to take drug tests as well. KMVT went on a ride with Uber driver Robin Ririe, who's been driving with Uber for nine months
- [Nebraska day care providers struggling with new background check law](https://gp1.com/nebraska-day-care-providers-struggling-with-new-background-check-law/) - Excerpted from Lincoln Journal Star by Sadiyah Ali A new state law requiring childcare employees to undergo an additional federal background check has been met with mixed reviews by providers since it took effect in October. While some agree that more background checks aren't bad, especially when children are in play, others aren't sure the
- [Does your workplace keep employees in a box?](https://gp1.com/does-your-workplace-keep-employees-in-a-box/) - Excerpted from The SHRM Blog by Johnny C. Taylor, Jr. SHRM-SCP Humans have one unique ability that sets us apart from machines and animals: The ability to imagine and create. But has your workforce been given the opportunity to be human? Are you providing employees the space to achieve their full potential? Or worse, is
- [Bill to require background checks for delivery workers following crime](https://gp1.com/bill-could-require-background-checks-for-delivery-workers-following-boca-raton-murder/) - Excerpted from CBS 12 News by Madeline Montgomery A new bill filed in the Florida House aims to require background screening for all delivery drivers who enter customers' homes. "It calls for level two backgrounds checks on all delivery persons who cross the threshold of your home," said Representative Mike Caruso. The bill is in
- [Pennsylvania’s Medical Marijuana Act at issue in recently filed complaint](https://gp1.com/pennsylvanias-medical-marijuana-act-at-issue-in-recently-filed-complaint/) - Excerpted from Lexology By Jennifer L. Mora In 2016, Pennsylvania enacted its “Medical Marijuana Act” (MMA), which permits individuals suffering from certain conditions to use marijuana for medicinal use. Several provisions in the MMA impact employers. For instance, the MMA makes it unlawful for an employer to “discharge, threaten, refuse to hire or otherwise discriminate
- [Cutter Mazda of Honolulu settles EEOC disability discrimination case](https://gp1.com/cutter-mazda-of-honolulu-settles-eeoc-disability-discrimination-case/) - Excerpted from JD SUPRA By U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission Company Commits to Ongoing Efforts to Hire and Recruit Deaf and Hard of Hearing Applicants Cutter Mazda of Honolulu ("Cutter Mazda") and the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) entered into a Consent to Settlement and Proposed Order ("Settlement") resolving a lawsuit filed by the
- [It’s time for American businesses to step to the plate on hiring workers with disabilities](https://gp1.com/its-time-for-american-businesses-to-step-to-the-plate-on-hiring-workers-with-disabilities/) - Excerpted from The SHRM Blog By Julie Hocker Chances are, in your workplace today, there are empty seats you wish were filled with qualified and motivated employees. You are not alone. Today in America there are more than seven million unfilled jobs. And there are also more than ten million Americans with disabilities who are
- [United Airlines to pay $321,000 to settle EEOC discrimination suit](https://gp1.com/united-airlines-to-pay-321000-and-fight-internet-harassment-to-settle-eeoc-discrimination-suit/) - Excerpted from The National Law Review by U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission Pilot Repeatedly Posted Sexually Explicit Photos of a Flight Attendant to Websites for Years, Federal Agency Charged. United Airlines, Inc., a Chicago-headquartered international airline operating in over 300 airports across five continents, has agreed to pay $321,000, plus attorney's fees, to settle a
- [U-Haul will no longer hire smokers in 21 states](https://gp1.com/u-haul-will-no-longer-hire-smokers-in-21-states/) - Excerpted from USA Today by Jazmin Goodwin U-Haul is taking a stand on smokers and nicotine users. The moving and storage rental company announced that, effective Feb. 1 in 21 states, it will no longer hire nicotine users. Employees hired before that date will be unaffected by the new policy. “We are deeply invested in
- [New Year's resolutions for employers in the US](https://gp1.com/new-years-resolutions-for-employers-in-the-us/) - Excerpted from Lexology By Jeffrey D. Mokotoff What should employers in the US keep in mind for the start of 2020? This article sets out a brief checklist. As 2020 dawns, employers should ask themselves if they are ready to face the New Year. 1 January 2020 brings mandatory regulations both nationwide and locally. Most
- [EEOC must pay $3.3M for failing to negotiate with employer](https://gp1.com/eeoc-must-pay-3-3m-for-failing-to-negotiate-with-employer/) - Excerpted from HR Dive By Ryan Golden Dive Brief: •The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) must pay $3.3 million for failing to properly negotiate with an employer, the 8th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals has ruled (EEOC v. CRST Van Expedited, No. 18-1446 (8th Cir. Dec. 10, 2019)). •The commission failed to satisfy its
- [4 HR trends that will impact your workplace culture in 2020](https://gp1.com/4-hr-trends-that-will-impact-your-workplace-culture-in-2020/) - Excerpted from The SHRM Blog by Elizabeth Owens Bille, JD,SHRM-SCP A new year is fast approaching and, with it, comes new laws, opportunities, and potential challenges for HR professionals. But creating a positive workplace culture is likely to be a constant activity, this year and next. So, what are the top HR trends that will
- [Trying to reach the North Pole? Check your Wi-Fi](https://gp1.com/trying-to-reach-the-north-pole-check-your-wi-fi/) - Excerpted from the The New York Times by Emily S. Rueb When Alan Kerr’s daughters confessed that they no longer believed in Santa Claus, he shared a confession of his own. “I told them the truth,” he said. “I work for Santa.” Mr. Kerr, an economist by training who has worked for the Canadian government,
- [Did that mall Santa undergo a background check? A new bill would demand it](https://gp1.com/did-that-mall-santa-undergo-a-background-check-a-new-bill-would-demand-it/) - Excerpted from lohud. By Nancy Cutler Playing Santa could soon require a mandatory background check. State Sen. James Skoufis introduced a bill this week that specifically requires background checks for a person who would be employed as a children's character. A similar bill has not yet been introduced in the Assembly. The law would apply
- [The Best Way to Spread Christmas Cheer is to Share this Employers' Holiday Guide Far & Near](https://gp1.com/the-best-way-to-spread-christmas-cheer-is-to-share-this-employers-holiday-guide-far-near/) - Excerpted fromMondaq by Jeffrey A. Riggs and Andree Comeaux 'Tis the season... for seasonal employees, paid time off, and the potential for ample holiday overtime, that is! During the holiday season, when so much hustle and bustle can become distracting, employers should not lose sight of the many responsibilities – and regulations – that also
- [GroupOne hosts annual holiday luncheon for staff members](https://gp1.com/groupone-hosts-annual-holiday-luncheon-for-staff-members/) - Enjoying the spirit of the season, GroupOne Background Screening held its annual holiday luncheon today for team members in the Fireside Ballroom of the Las Colinas Country Club. More than 50 staff members turned out for an event that included annual employee awards and prize giveaways. Comedian Al Fike delighted attendees with his unique brand
- [Australia – Background Checks for Partners with Domestic Violence History](https://gp1.com/australia-background-checks-for-partners-with-domestic-violence-history/) - Excerpted from ABC By Matthew Smith Background checks on people suspected of having a history of domestic violence are already helping to save lives, a domestic violence service provider says. The State Government has released details from the first year of the Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme, which was set up to help people find out
- [Uber discloses 3,000 reports of sexual assault on U.S. rides last year](https://gp1.com/uber-discloses-3000-reports-of-sexual-assault-on-u-s-rides-last-year/) - Excerpted from Washington Post By Faiz Siddiqui The company had said it would examine 21 categories of sexual misconduct, in a pledge to be more transparent about the prevalence of the issues involving the app. Uber has disclosed that 3,000 sexual assaults were reported on its U.S. rides last year, the first time it has
- [Homeless face hidden hurdles to housing](https://gp1.com/homeless-face-hidden-hurdles-to-housing/) - Excerpted from KATU News By Brian Wood Some of the struggles homeless people face in our community are hidden hurdles that most other people don’t think twice about. Among those hurdles is as simple, and complicated, as applying to rent a home or apartment. Those applications usually come with fees that many homeless people we
- [GroupOne makes holiday donation to “Toys for Tots”](https://gp1.com/groupone-makes-holiday-donation-to-toys-for-tots/) - An annual holiday tradition at the offices of GroupOne Background Screening, staff members donated toys to the DFW Toys for Tots program this week. A total of 55 toys were donated to the charity program, created in 1947 at the behest of the U.S. Marine Corps to deliver, through a new toy at Christmas, a
- [GroupOne’s credit reports - Don’t regret it, run credit!](https://gp1.com/groupones-credit-reports-dont-regret-it-run-credit/) - Here at GroupOne Background Screening, we often see the terms “Credit Check” and “Employment Credit Report” used simultaneously in the industry. An Employment Credit Report includes a candidate’s credit history, previous employment information, credit inquiries and legal activity. This may include bankruptcies and missed credit payments. The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) and state regulations
- [The Opportunity Economy](https://gp1.com/the-opportunity-economy/) - Excerpted from The SHRM Blog By David Kovacovich 2020 seems like an ominous number...... I'm sure there are movies of lore that have characterized the year forthcoming with jet packs and laser beams. Much has changed through technology and there are trends emerging that will have an impact on the way we work in 2020.
- [Waterloo, Iowa enacts Ban the Box restrictions](https://gp1.com/waterloo-iowa-enacts-ban-the-box-restrictions/) - Excerpted from JDSUPRA By Seyfarth Shaw LLP All private employers with at least 15 employees, including the City of Waterloo, are subject to the Ban the Box Ordinance (the “Ordinance”), which is scheduled to take effect on July 1, 2020. Covered employers may not inquire in any manner about an applicant’s criminal records prior to
- [Chipotle to pay $95,000 to settle EEOC sexual harassment and retaliation lawsuit](https://gp1.com/chipotle-to-pay-95000-to-settle-eeoc-sexual-harassment-and-retaliation-lawsuit/) - Excerpted from JDSUPRA By U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) Fast-food chain Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. and its subsidiary Chipotle Services, LLC will pay $95,000 and make substantial changes to settle a sexual harassment and retaliation lawsuit filed by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), the federal agency announced today. According to the EEOC's
- [Report finds many free dating apps don't screen for sex offenders](https://gp1.com/report-finds-many-free-dating-apps-dont-screen-for-sex-offenders/) - Excerpted from CBS News By Nikki Battiste A new investigation finds many free dating apps don't screen whether users are registered sex offenders. Janine Dunphy said a free dating website connected her with the man she says raped her. "I wouldn't have ever thought that somebody like him would be on a dating website," she
- [GroupOne’s drug testing – how effective is it?](https://gp1.com/groupones-drug-testing-how-effective-is-it/) - Simply put, GroupOne’s drug testing is money in your company’s pocket. Employment drug testing is a powerful tool that provides far-reaching company benefits. Today, more than 65% of companies utilize drug testing programs. Here’s the advantages: • Drug testing programs decrease absenteeism by 50%; • Drug testing programs decrease workers’ compensation incidence rates by 50%;
- [Scars to your beautiful](https://gp1.com/scars-to-your-beautiful/) - Excerpted from The SHRM Blog By John Baldino Back in the day, we used to have one-screen movie theaters. As a kid, I remember going with my Dad or Mom to the Colonial Theatre to watch whatever was playing. In 1983, my Aunt would drove me over the river into New Jersey to watch War
- [Limitations on pre-employment testing for marijuana](https://gp1.com/limitations-on-pre-employment-testing-for-marijuana/) - Excerpted from The National Law Review by Epstein Becker & Green As of September 2019, 33 states and Washington, DC, have legalized medical marijuana use, and 10 states and Washington, DC, have legalized both medical and recreational marijuana use. Many of these states have enacted laws that protect employees and job applicants from discrimination based
- [Boy Scout volunteers say new background checks too invasive](https://gp1.com/some-boy-scouts-volunteers-say-new-background-checks-are-too-invasive/) - Excerpted from 10tv WBNS By Bryant Somerville Mike and Emily Jennings want to be clear: they are for background checks. They think all volunteers should be thoroughly and frequently vetted, no question. However, the new checks for Boy Scouts of America, they say, are too invasive. In an effort to have more up-to-date background checks
- [Opioid crisis adds issues with Child Protective Services](https://gp1.com/opioid-crisis-adds-to-issues-with-state-child-protective-services-bureau-of-children-and-families/) - Excerpted from The Journal By Steven Allen Adams The agency charged with investigating abuse and neglect cases involving children is having issues keeping up with increased caseloads as the opioid crisis continues. Lawmakers on the Post Audits Subcommittee heard a report Tuesday from the Legislative Auditor’s Office on Child Protective Services, an agency within the
- [New drug-testing requirement may be added to FoodShare program](https://gp1.com/new-drug-testing-requirement-may-be-added-to-foodshare-program/) - Excerpted from The Badger Herald By Arushi Gupta Similar to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, FoodShare Wisconsin aims at improving the health of individuals belonging to low-income families and is considering implementing drug testing. According to its official website, FoodShare Wisconsin is for “people of all ages who have a job but have low incomes,
- [Report shows employees never passed background checks at daycare](https://gp1.com/dhs-report-shows-employees-never-passed-background-checks-at-now-shut-down-daycare/) - Excerpted from Fox21News By Brandon Thompson When Colorado Department of Human Services investigators inspected the Play Mountain Place daycare on Wednesday, they found more violations than what the original complaint reported. Employees did not pass background checks, required records were not kept, and the facility’s owner did not live at the house where the daycare
- [Proposed bill may require background checks on delivery drivers](https://gp1.com/proposed-bill-may-require-background-checks-on-delivery-drivers/) - Excerpted from Supply & Demand Chain Executive By MacKenna Moralez After a woman in Boca Raton, Florida was murdered in her home by a delivery driver, a proposed bill would require background checks on delivery personnel. In August, Evelyn Udell Smith of Boca Raton, Florida died after Jorge Luis Dupre Lachazo reportedly beat her death
- [Employers are still avoiding former inmates](https://gp1.com/employers-are-still-avoiding-former-inmates/) - Excerpted from The Atlantic By Margaret Barthel Dozens of states and D.C. have restricted when companies can ask about job applicants’ criminal records—but many aren’t following the rules. DeVaughn Bell had been home in Washington, D.C., from federal prison for only one month, and he’d gotten interviews for several jobs. But none of them stuck.
- [Berkeley considers removing criminal background checks from housing applications](https://gp1.com/berkeley-considers-removing-criminal-background-checks-from-housing-applications/) - Excerpted from KRON4 By Noelle Belllow “When you get ready to get married, you scrutinize,” Jim Smith said. “Well a tenant is almost like getting married. That person might be in your life for the next 20 years, so you really scrutinize very carefully who you rent to.” 40-year Berkeley landlord Jim Smith isn’t impressed
- [The value of background screening](https://gp1.com/the-value-of-background-screening/) - Blog by Danny Davila, Executive Director of GroupOne Background Screening In most organization, it is understood that Human Resources is not considered a revenue driver. Some experts consider it expendable, recommending the outsourcing of talent acquisition to add to the “bottom line.” Background screening agencies such as GroupOne are routinely asked to reexamine costs to
- [True inclusion gets everyone in the game](https://gp1.com/true-inclusion-gets-everyone-in-the-game/) - Excerpted from The SHRM Blog By Emily M. Dickens, JD. Last week, SHRM hosted its sold-out 2019 Inclusion Conference—formerly Diversity & Inclusion. We welcomed over 1,000 workforce professionals to New Orleans to explore the theme of “Shifting Workplace Culture.” Changing the name from D&I to Inclusion was key. Notions about diversity in the workplace are
- [Alderman wants to 'ban the box' about criminal history from all job applications in St. Louis](https://gp1.com/alderman-wants-to-ban-the-box-about-criminal-history-from-all-job-applications-in-st-louis/) - Excerpted from ksdk.com By Sara Machi Collins-Muhammad's plan doesn't prohibit hiring managers from asking about criminal history in interviews or doing a background check. John Collins-Muhammad said he personally knows people who benefitted when St. Louis banned questions about prior criminal history from city job applications. "I know a bunch of people that have benefited
- [Did you know GroupOne does Electronic I-9 and E-Verify?](https://gp1.com/did-you-know-groupone-does-electronic-i-9-and-e-verify/) - An I-9 is required for every single employee, but there’s no reason why I-9s or E-Verify checks should be cumbersome. GroupOne's online system make I-9 and E-Verify processing quick and easy so you can focus on what matters most: hiring exceptional candidates. Let GroupOne take the hassle out of your employment eligibility checks. And it’s
- [“Party houses” will get you banned from Airbnb](https://gp1.com/party-houses-will-get-you-banned-from-airbnb/) - Excerpted from MarketWatch By Meera Jagannathan Airbnb CEO Brian Chesky this weekend announced new directives aimed at rooting out unauthorized parties after a Halloween “party house” shooting in Orinda, Calif., resulted in five deaths. A woman rented a four-bedroom home after telling the owner that 12 of her family members with asthma needed refuge from
- [Dollar General reaches settlement with EEOC in background check suit](https://gp1.com/dollar-general-reaches-settlement-with-the-eeoc-in-years-long-background-check-bias-suit/) - Excerpted from Lexology By Littler Mendelson PC Employers should continue to exercise caution and care in drafting their criminal record screening policies. A recent settlement by Dollar General underscores this point, even though it comes on the heels of the Fifth Circuit’s opinion holding that the EEOC violated the federal Administrative Procedure Act (APA) in
- [HR, Holidays and Inclusion in the Workplace](https://gp1.com/hr-holidays-and-inclusion-in-the-workplace/) - Excerpted from The SHRM Blog By Julie Develin Walk into a retail store, and you’ve already seen the evidence. Each year it seems to arrive faster, and the holiday season is upon us yet again. For employees, this has many implications both in and out of the workplace. For HR, we need to be strategic
- [Don’t regret it, run credit! Have you tried GroupOne’s credit reports?](https://gp1.com/dont-regret-it-run-credit-have-you-tried-groupones-credit-checks/) - Here at GroupOne, we often see the terms “Credit Check” and “Employment Credit Report” used simultaneously in the background screening industry. An Employment Credit Report includes a candidate’s credit history, previous employment information, credit inquiries and legal activity. This may include bankruptcies and missed credit payments. The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) and state regulations
- [On the road – GroupOne visiting HR Southwest Conference in FW](https://gp1.com/on-the-road-groupone-visiting-hr-southwest-conference-in-fw/) - GroupOne Background Screening has arrived in Fort Worth for the HR Southwest Conference, October 28-29 at the Fort Worth Convention Center. This year’s conference will focus on healthcare, employment law and talent management, with an abundance of networking opportunities. Attendees will have a chance to build connections and interact with an expert lineup of educational
- [Illinois haunted houses must follow fire marshal rules](https://gp1.com/illinois-haunted-houses-must-follow-fire-marshal-rules/) - Excerpted from Morris Herald News By Submitted Report It’s that time of year again – scary sounds, darkened corridors, creepy clowns, lots of screaming. Haunted house season is here. And in Illinois, haunted house attractions need a permit to operate. “We know people love a scary, good time, but we also want to make sure
- [School lifts Halloween festivities ban](https://gp1.com/school-lifts-halloween-festivities-ban/) - Excerpted from WILX10 News By Megan Hiler Halloween is back on the calendar at a local school that was planning on canceling it. NEWS 10 started looking into complaints from parents about a costume and party ban at the Galewood Elementary in Charlotte. The principal told parents last week there would be no Halloween festivities
- [TN - Background Check required prior to entering infamous haunted house](https://gp1.com/tn-background-check-required-prior-to-entering-infamous-haunted-house/) - Excerpted from Local 10 News By Jeff Tavss The scariest haunted house in the U.S. will give you $20,000 if you finish the tour but be warned... you must sign a 40-page waiver, have a doctor's note and pass a physical to even enter. McKamey Manor in Summertown (Tenn.) is so scary, no one has
- [Monster: 85% of recruiters say candidates exaggerate skills](https://gp1.com/monster-85-of-recruiters-say-candidates-exaggerate-skills/) - Excerpted from HR Dive By Valerie Bolden-Barrett Dive Brief: • Recruiters generally are confident about finding qualified candidates, according to a new report. In fact, 95% of respondents to Monster's 2019 State of the Recruiter survey said they feel good about their ability to find qualified candidates, and most think the active candidates they find
- [Advocates argue in favor of ‘Ban the Box’ bill](https://gp1.com/advocates-argue-in-favor-of-ban-the-box-bill/) - Excerpted from Riverhead News-Review By Mahreen Khan Attorneys, social workers, ex-cons and former addicts advocated at the Suffolk County Legislature last Wednesday for passage of the “Second Chance” law, which would eliminate a box on job applications that asks about criminal history. The law, also referred to as “Ban the Box” or “Fair Chance Act,”
- [Recruitment and wage & hour law in the USA](https://gp1.com/recruitment-and-wage-hour-law-in-the-usa/) - Excerpted from Lexology By Ogletree Deakins Recruitment Advertising What are the requirements relating to advertising positions? Generally, there is no standard procedure relating to advertising for jobs (although discrimination laws apply to job advertising). Some employers may have an affirmative action plan (either voluntarily or as required by a court order) in place that requires
- [Why employers can’t let guards down when hiring holiday workers](https://gp1.com/why-employers-cant-let-guards-down-when-hiring-holiday-workers/) - Excerpted from a Forbes article by Alonzo Martinez As we dash into the lucrative holiday shopping season, employers are scrambling to hire temporary workers to extend their ranks. And, by all accounts, the season is expected to be a busy one as companies announce big plans to hire more workers — and fast. In recent
- [7 work trends you should be paying attention to](https://gp1.com/7-work-trends-you-should-be-paying-attention-to/) - Excerpted from The SHRM Blog by Caroline Stokes Work trends come and go, but some have staying power. I have noticed seven trends that companies looking to scale and stay relevant should pay attention to. 1. Flexible Working Hours As a population, we’re long past the concept of the 9-to-5, 40-hour workweek. The ubiquity of
- [Illinois bans employer inquires on salary history, continues trend](https://gp1.com/illinois-bans-employer-inquires-on-salary-history-continues-trend/) - Excerpted from Hunton Employment & Labor Perspectives By Reilly C. Moore, Ryan M. Bates & Alan J. Marcuis Illinois joined a handful of other states when its prohibition on employer inquiries into applicants’ prior wage or salary information took effect this week. Under the law, no employers in Illinois can ask about the wage or
- [GroupOne staff hosts “Football Friday,” on a Thursday!](https://gp1.com/groupone-staff-hosts-football-friday-on-a-thursday/) - In preparation for the big Oklahoma Sooners and Texas Longhorns football game at the State Fair in Dallas this Saturday, staff members of GroupOne Background Screening held its annual “Football Friday” barbecue lunch at its offices. Now, you may ask why is “Football Friday” on a Thursday? And, that’s a valid question. Our monthly Board
- [Making sense of it all: How technology is shaping HR](https://gp1.com/making-sense-of-it-all-how-technology-is-shaping-the-new-hr-agenda/) - Excerpted from The SHRM Blog By Mary Kaylor, SHRM-CP Richard Branson is famous for the quote, “Train people well enough so they can leave. Treat them well enough so they don’t want to.” This belief in the value of caring for employees was a prominent theme running through all the sessions at the 2019 Human
- [Ford Motor to pay $540,000 to resolve discrimination case in Kentucky](https://gp1.com/ford-motor-co-will-pay-close-to-540000-to-resolve-discrimination-case-at-kentucky-plant/) - Excerpted from Courier Journal By Ben Tobin Ford Motor Co.'s Kentucky Truck Plant will pay more than $500,000 and provide additional training to resolve a discrimination charge by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. The federal agency announced Tuesday that it discovered the Kentucky Truck Plant failed to hire applicants due to their disabilities. This
- [Background checks in effect for childcare providers](https://gp1.com/background-checks-in-effect-for-childcare-providers/) - Excerpted from The Jamestown Sun The North Dakota Department of Human Services said the department is re-implementing a federal fingerprint-based background check requirement to ensure the protection and safety of children in licensed or regulated childcare. The federal requirement prohibits new childcare employees from starting employment until the department receives and reviews their in-state Bureau
- [Columbia, South Carolina enacts Ban-the-Box Law](https://gp1.com/columbia-south-carolina-enacts-ban-the-box-law/) - Excerpted from Lexology By Seyfarth Shaw LLP Seyfarth Synopsis: The Columbia, South Carolina Mayor Steve Benjamin has signed a new law prohibiting employers – including private employers – from inquiring about an applicant’s criminal history until receipt of a conditional offer of employment and requiring the addition of language to job postings/applications. Recent Amendment to
- [Let GroupOne “Clear your Volunteer”](https://gp1.com/let-groupone-clear-your-volunteer/) - Do you “Clear your Volunteer?” Here at GroupOne Background Screening, we’ve been checking on volunteers of our clients for over 20 years. Volunteers are screened for the same reason employers conduct background checks – to verify identity and weed out potential problems. Laws requiring volunteer screening ask for a check of criminal history and sex
- [7 Ways to be an Effective Leader — Even if it’s Not Your Job Yet](https://gp1.com/7-ways-to-be-an-effective-leader-even-if-its-not-your-job-yet/) - Excerpted from Lexology By Elizabeth A. Colombo “Management is doing things right; leadership is doing the right things.” – Peter Drucker A common misconception about leadership is that you must be a member of the C-suite or have another executive level title to be considered a leader. However, by exhibiting certain traits and cultivating specific
- [Despite some toxic workplaces, most Americans feel fulfilled at work](https://gp1.com/despite-some-toxic-workplaces-most-americans-feel-fulfilled-at-work/) - Excerpted from The SHRM Blog By Trent Burner When you consider adults spend 90,000 hours of their lifetime at work, and how work impacts or shapes the personal lives of 3 billion people in the world (good, bad or something in between), you begin to realize just how connected our experiences at work—workplace culture—are to
- [School bus driver warns of CBD use after failing drug test, losing job](https://gp1.com/school-bus-driver-warns-of-cbd-use-after-failing-drug-test-losing-job/) - Excerpted from abc13 By Chuck Goudie and Christine M Tressel Careers continue to be upended by the wildly popular cannabis extract known as CBD. Products infused with hemp are legal, but largely unregulated and may be hazardous to your occupational health. Since first reporting on this issue last spring, the ABC7 I-Team has uncovered more
- [On the road – GroupOne hosting booth at Coastal Bend SHRM event](https://gp1.com/on-the-road-groupone-hosting-booth-at-coastal-bend-shrm-event/) - GroupOne Background Screening is headed to the Gulf Coast for the Coastal Bend SHRM Conference and Labor Law Symposium, September 26-27 at the Radisson Inn – North Beach in Corpus Christi, Texas. The HR Conference offers two full days of exceptional educational sessions for attendees to include general and strategic HR management, plus labor law.
- [Firm illegally fired pregnant officer, EEOC lawsuit alleges](https://gp1.com/a-tacoma-based-firm-illegally-fired-a-pregnant-security-officer-eeoc-lawsuit-alleges/) - Excerpted from The News Tribune By Alexis Krell A Tacoma-based company illegally fired a pregnant security officer, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission alleged in a lawsuit this week. The EEOC filed its lawsuit against the Oatridge Security Group on Monday in U.S. District Court. A shift supervisor for the company at the Seattle Tunnel
- [Over 100 Uber and Lyft drivers suspended in Portland, Oregon](https://gp1.com/over-100-uber-and-lyft-drivers-suspended-in-portland-oregon/) - Excerpted from Travel Pulse By Mia Taylor More than 150 Uber and Lyft drivers have been suspended for offenses that should have blocked them for working for the two rideshare companies in the first place. The workers in question were employed in Portland, Oregon and the offenses range from traffic violations to felonies, according to
- [Exide Technologies to pay $45,000 to settle discrimination lawsuit](https://gp1.com/exide-technologies-to-pay-45000-to-settle-eeoc-disability-discrimination-lawsuit/) - Excerpted from JD Supra By U.S. Equal Employment Oppor¬tunity Commission (EEOC) Battery Manufacturer Rescinded Its Job Offer Based on Unfounded Fears of Safety, Federal Agency Charged Exide Technologies, a global corporation headquartered in Milton, Ga., that manufactures, distributes and sells stored energy components, will pay $45,000 and provide other relief to settle a federal disability
- [CEOs from Amazon, IBM, ask Congress to pass a data privacy law](https://gp1.com/ceos-from-amazon-ibm-salesforce-and-more-ask-congress-to-pass-a-consumer-data-privacy-law/) - Excerpted from CNBC By Lauren Feiner CEOs of 51 companies from the Business Roundtable, including Amazon, IBM and Salesforce, signed a letter to U.S. congressional leaders Tuesday urging them to create “a comprehensive consumer data privacy law.” The executives, who span a range of industries, said a federal law is necessary to ensure “strong, consistent
- [EEOC says Walmart may have underpaid women workers](https://gp1.com/eeoc-says-walmart-may-have-underpaid-women-workers/) - Excerpted from Business Journals By Anne Stych The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) believes Walmart may have paid some women less or denied them promotions because of their gender and has directed the company to resolve the matter or face a lawsuit, according to documents shared with The Wall Street Journal by a law firm
- [The same but different - building a truly inclusive culture for all](https://gp1.com/the-same-but-different-building-a-truly-inclusive-culture-for-all/) - Excerpted from The SHRM Blog By Mofota Sefali “Diversity is the range of human differences, including but not limited to race, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, social class, physical ability or attributes, religious or ethical values system, national origin and political beliefs.” What about race? How do we break down the fundamental differences
- [GroupOne drug testing – Money in your company’s pocket!](https://gp1.com/groupone-drug-testing-money-in-your-companys-pocket/) - GroupOne’s drug testing is money in your company’s pocket. A safe workplace is a happy workplace, with decreased absenteeism, improved production and minimal turnover. An effective drug testing program is a crucial part of that safety equation. Here at GroupOne Background Screening, we’ve been providing effective drug testing programs for over a decade. We offer
- [EEOC sues two Denver-area employers who fired epileptic workers](https://gp1.com/eeoc-sues-two-denver-area-employers-who-fired-epileptic-workers/) - Excerpted from The Denver Post By Aldo Svaldi The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has sued two metro-area employers, alleging they fired workers who suffered epileptic seizures in violation of the Americans With Disabilities Act. Denver-based Gollnick Construction, which does business as Colorado Excavating, engaged in disability discrimination by firing office assistant Dora Marquez
- [Driving innovation while focusing on foundational programs](https://gp1.com/driving-innovation-while-focusing-on-foundational-programs/) - Excerpted from The SHRM Blog by Cory Bronson and Scott Snell To lead in an ever-changing world, today’s chief HR officers (CHRO) must act swiftly, pushing through unfamiliar boundaries to find innovative business solutions. At the same time, they must continue to ensure the excellence of transactional HR programs such as pay and benefits. HR
- [Lyft sued over assault cases](https://gp1.com/lyft-sued-over-assault-cases/) - Excerpted from American Legal News By Lynn Fugaro Fourteen women who said they were raped or otherwise sexually assaulted have filed a lawsuit against Lyft, one of the two top ride-share companies in the country. The lawsuit specifically cites fourteen cases of rape or sexual assault over a twelve-month period in 2018 to 2019. While
- [Lawsuit claims background checks discriminate against childcare workers](https://gp1.com/lawsuit-claims-new-state-background-checks-discriminate-against-childcare-workers/) - Excerpted from wbur By Carrie Jung The group Lawyers for Civil Rights has filed a class-action lawsuit against the commonwealth of Massachusetts over what they're calling overly broad and discriminatory background check regulations for childcare workers. The rules were instituted as part of a larger regulation update state legislators passed last year to comply with
- [Board split on 'ban the box' asking about felonies on applications](https://gp1.com/rome-board-split-on-ban-the-box-asking-about-felonies-on-job-applications/) - Excerpted from Rome News-Tribune By Diane Wagner The Rome City Commission is split over the issue of having a question about felony convictions at the top of their employment applications. Several residents are working in conjunction with a group called Opening Doors on a nationwide push to “ban the box” applicants are asked to check
- [YouTube to pay $150 Million to settle FTC allegations](https://gp1.com/youtube-reportedly-will-pay-more-than-150-million-to-settle-ftc-allegations-of-coppa-violations/) - Excerpted from Lexology By Dotan Hammer and Haim Ravia Most of the FTC’s panel of commissioners reportedly approved a settlement with YouTube who the FTC accused of violating the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA). The FTC alleges that YouTube knowingly collected personal information of children under the age of 13 without parental consent and
- [Uber adds 2nd background check for NYC drivers](https://gp1.com/uber-adds-2nd-background-check-for-nyc-drivers/) - Excerpted from Patch By Noah Manskar Uber is double-checking its workforce. The ride-hailing giant is making its New York City drivers go through a second background check if they want to continue picking up passengers. Tens of thousands of Big Apple drivers will have to go through the criminal background check Uber runs on its
- [Can background checks be conducted on current employees?](https://gp1.com/can-background-checks-be-conducted-on-current-employees/) - Excerpted from JDSUPRA By Haynsworth Sinkler Boyd, P.A Most employers run background checks on prospective employees when hiring. Some employers have policies in place that allow them to conduct background checks on current employees. Below are several examples of instances in which employers may choose to do so: • Belief that a current employee has
- [Killer linked to cold-case through fingerprint background check](https://gp1.com/killer-linked-to-cold-case-florida-murder-through-fingerprint-background-check-for-job-gets-life/) - Excerpted from Fox News By Robert Gearty A man linked eight months ago to a Florida 1998 cold case murder -- when he applied for a job requiring his fingerprints for a background check -- has been sentenced to life in prison for the crime. Todd Barket, 51, of Brandon, Fla., was told his sentence
- [DPS worker issued 5,817 licenses without background checks](https://gp1.com/former-dps-worker-issued-5817-licenses-without-background-checks/) - Excerpted from 13Whotv.com By Kelly Maricle A special investigation by the State Auditor’s Office has determined a former employee of the Iowa Department of Public Safety issued more than 5,000 private investigator, private security, and bail enforcement licenses without doing the proper background checks on applicants. A report released Thursday by the State Auditor Rob
- [EEOC: Firing worker for treating opioid addiction is discrimination](https://gp1.com/eeoc-firing-a-worker-for-taking-leave-to-treat-opioid-addiction-is-disability-discrimination/) - Excerpted from HR Dive By Lisa Burden Dive Insight: The "regarded as" element of the ADA's definition of disability protects an individual from discrimination based on an employer's belief that he or she has a disability. Establishing protection under that prong is based on "how a person has been treated because of a physical or
- [A first: U.S. panel recommends screening adults for drug use](https://gp1.com/for-the-first-time-u-s-panel-recommends-screening-adults-for-illicit-drug-use/) - Excerpted from STAT By Brittany Flaherty As new ways to identify and treat people who use opioids and other drugs emerge, an independent panel of experts is recommending that health care providers screen their adult patients for illicit drug use. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force has determined, for the first time, that there is
- [Authenticating social media evidence at trial](https://gp1.com/authenticating-social-media-evidence-at-trial/) - Excerpted from Lexology By Christine Lozier and Michael C. Zogby Social media is ubiquitous in our cyber-connected world. For many, the first thing a person does when they wake up, and the last thing that person does when they go to bed is read, post, or otherwise interact with platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram,
- [On the road – GroupOne hosting booth at West Texas HR event](https://gp1.com/on-the-road-groupone-hosting-booth-at-west-texas-hr-event/) - GroupOne Background Screening is headed west to the West Texas HR Symposium, August 22-23 at the Overton Hotel and Conference Center in Lubbock, Texas. The event will be a great opportunity for employers, HR professionals, business owners and anyone who manages employees to participate in educational sessions, hear from the state's preeminent employment law attorneys
- [Mr. Roboto](https://gp1.com/mr-roboto/) - Excerpted from The SHRM Blog By John Baldino For the past few years, the topic of the future of work has continued to stir enthusiasm, fear and opinion within the business community. Most times, when the future of work is discussed, visions of Rosie dance in our heads. You know, Rosie from The Jetsons. We
- [Pier 1 Imports Reaches Agreement with EEOC](https://gp1.com/pier-1-imports-reaches-agreement-with-eeoc/) - Excerpted from The National Law Review By U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission Company Resolves Failure-to-Hire Racial Discrimination Charge LOS ANGELES - Pier 1 Imports, an international home furnishings and specialty retailer in the U.S. and Canada, has reached an agreement with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) through its conciliation process to resolve a
- [#Metoo legislation set to take effect in Illinois](https://gp1.com/metoo-legislation-set-to-take-effect-in-illinois/) - Excerpted from Lexology By Ryan Vann, Miriam Petrillo and Karun Ahuja Illinois is set to join the growing list of US states further protecting the rights of workers who have experienced sexual harassment, with the recently passed Workplace Transparency Act (WTA), which is expected to be signed by Governor JB Pritzker and which will largely
- [Legal marijuana, CBD oil pose new challenges for workplaces](https://gp1.com/legal-marijuana-cbd-oil-pose-new-challenges-for-tampa-st-pete-workplaces/) - Excerpted from The Catalyst By Margie Manning The states that are legalizing medical and recreational marijuana use – a growing number – are shaking up the workplace. They’re also raising safety concerns for David Bell, CEO of USA Mobile Drug Testing in Tampa. The company provides on-site workplace drug tests and the back-end services that
- [Powering organizational success through culture](https://gp1.com/powering-organizational-success-through-culture/) - Excerpted from The SHRM Blog By Suzanne McAndrew And Lisa Connell As digitalization and the accompanying democratization of work disrupt traditional business models, organizations are adopting more agile, tech-enabled ways of working. Today, employers are deconstructing jobs and dispersing work around the globe to be completed by diverse pools of talent ranging from free agents
- [New Jersey joins the salary history "Ban" wagon](https://gp1.com/new-jersey-joins-the-salary-history-ban-wagon/) - Excerpted from Lexology By Duane Morris LLP On July 25, 2019, New Jersey enacted Assembly Bill 1094 (herein referred to as the “Salary History Ban Law”). Effective January 1, 2020, the Salary History Ban Law prohibits private employers from inquiring about a job applicant’s salary history, benefits and other compensation during the hiring process. Salary
- [Dayton stops hiring smokers; union worries about ‘slippery slope’](https://gp1.com/dayton-stops-hiring-smokers-vapers-union-worries-about-slippery-slope/) - Excerpted from Dayton Daily News By Cornelius Frolik The city of Dayton no longer will hire employees who use nicotine or tobacco, citing the desire for a healthier workplace and environment. Employees hired after July 15 are required to be nicotine and tobacco free if they work for the city. The city plans to test
- [Four areas of focus to boost your candidate efforts](https://gp1.com/four-areas-of-focus-to-boost-your-candidate-attraction-efforts/) - Excerpted from The SHRM Blog By Rob Shepard Changing the way that you interact with candidates in your selection process is crucial to your organization’s future success. Talent shortages are growing around the world. The global unemployment rate has dropped to 5 percent, the lowest level in a decade according to the latest ILO World
- [Patients taking Cannabinol for sleep could fail drug tests](https://gp1.com/patients-taking-cannabinol-for-sleep-could-fail-drug-tests-for-marijuana/) - Excerpted from Sleep Review Magazine A new study shows that a person taking the medicinal cannabis derivative cannabidiol (CBD) won’t fail a drug test for marijuana—but a person taking the emerging sleep aid cannabinol (CBN) will. These findings were presented this week at the 71st AACC Annual Scientific Meeting & Clinical Lab Expo and could
- [Clear your Volunteer – GroupOne’s volunteer screening w/FCRA coverage](https://gp1.com/clear-your-volunteer-groupones-volunteer-background-screening-provides-fcra-coverage/) - Do you “Clear your Volunteer?” Here at GroupOne Background Screening, we’ve been checking on volunteers of our clients for over 20 years. Volunteers are screened for the same reason employers conduct background checks – to verify identity and weed out problems that could arise from an undisclosed criminal history. Laws requiring volunteer screening ask for
- [No background checks on men working with kids, city says](https://gp1.com/we-didnt-run-background-checks-on-men-we-hired-to-work-with-kids-city-says/) - Excerpted from NJ Advance Media By Karen Yi The Newark employees charged for their alleged roles in a 12-person drug trafficking ring run out of a recreation center should have undergone a criminal background check as required by city policy but “fell through the cracks,” officials said Friday. Two of the three city workers accused
- [Church volunteer faces 10 new charges related to sexual abuse](https://gp1.com/former-church-volunteer-faces-10-new-charges-related-to-sexual-abuse-of-children/) - Excerpted from Live 5 News By Harve Jacobs A man accused of sexually abusing children at a North Charleston church where he volunteered was indicted Thursday on a total of 10 new charges. Jacop Hazlett, faces three new counts of third-degree criminal sexual conduct with a minor and seven counts of sexual exploitation of a
- [Four ways your boss can access your private data](https://gp1.com/four-ways-your-boss-can-access-your-private-data/) - Excerpted from Beta News By Michael Klazema Privacy is a currency these days. With social media, target advertising, and constant connectivity, it’s harder than ever to keep elements of your private life truly private. This crisis of privacy becomes especially concerning in the context of the workplace. In the old days, it was easy to
- [Everything HR needs to know about the EEOC](https://gp1.com/back-to-basics-everything-hr-needs-to-know-about-the-eeoc/) - Excerpted from HR Dive By Katie Clarey Inside every bodega, wedding boutique, automobile factory, there hangs a poster proclaiming that "equal employment opportunity is the law." If it's not there, it should be. Why? It's a requirement of the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), the agency that enforces federal anti-discrimination laws. The EEOC obligates
- [Post-employment screening – have no regrets, run ReChecks!](https://gp1.com/post-employment-screening-have-no-regrets-run-rechecks/) - Did you know 33 percent of employees admit to stealing money from employers and that 30 percent of business failures are directly related to employee theft? And this is after pre-employment screening. Pre-employment screening in today’s market is a given, with 92 percent of companies subjecting potential employees to criminal background checks. What too few
- [Startup's nuanced background check helps ex-offenders get jobs](https://gp1.com/startups-nuanced-background-check-helps-ex-offenders-get-jobs/) - Excerpted from a Forbes story by Anne Field The cards clearly are stacked against formerly imprisoned inmates once they try to re-enter the mainstream. Employers often simply won’t hire ex-offenders, while many states restrict the business and professional licenses that once- incarcerated people can get. So it’s no wonder that, according to research, about two-thirds
- [Public Service Loan Forgiveness Guide](https://gp1.com/public-service-loan-forgiveness-guide/) - Excerpted from an i2verify blog by Scott Forman The Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program, or PSLF, is an extraordinary program from Federal Student Aid, or FSA, an Office of the U.S. Department of Education. PSLF forgives the remaining balance on employee Federal Direct Student Loans after the completion of 120 qualifying on-time, monthly payments. Qualifying
- [Criminal Research: Fact & Fiction](https://gp1.com/criminal-research-fact-fiction/) - Blog by Danilio Davila, Executive Director, GroupOne Background Screening It’s important to understand the difference between fact and fiction. First, let’s agree there is not a single data source to provide all criminal history appropriate for pre-employment reports. Criminal history is assembled by county court record systems. A consumer reporting agency such as GroupOne Background
- [Texas school to drug test 7th graders: 'Great kids make bad decisions'](https://gp1.com/texas-school-to-drug-test-students-in-7th-grade-great-kids-make-bad-decisions-every-day/) - Excerpted from Newsweek By Jason Murdock Students of a Texas school district must drug tests before they can take part in certain extracurricular activities—including football, choir and chess. In a letter to parents, Bushland Independent School District's Board of Trustees said the decision had been made to approve the policy for students in grades 7
- [Report shows critical gaps in church background checks](https://gp1.com/report-shows-critical-gaps-in-church-background-checks/) - Excerpted from CBS46 by Mea Watkins LENOIR CITY, Tenn. (CBS46) – As sex offenders continue to dodge state registries, newly released data shows that critical gaps remain in church background checks. Ministry Brands, a leading provider of church management software solutions, says although church background checks increased 12 percent year-over-year, 40 percent of Protestant and
- [Baker Bill aims to collect more data from Ride-Hailing companies](https://gp1.com/baker-bill-aims-to-collect-more-data-from-ride-hailing-companies/) - Excerpted from WBUR Guide By Zeninjor Enwemeka The Baker administration wants to collect more data on ride-hailing companies like Uber and Lyft and impose strict new penalties on drivers who stalk riders or share their accounts with unauthorized individuals. The legislation Gov. Charlie Baker filed Wednesday builds on the 2016 ride-hailing law, which implemented some
- [Improper background checks on job applicants cost employers millions](https://gp1.com/improper-background-checks-on-job-applicants-cost-employers-millions/) - Excerpted from Benefits Pro By Katie Kuehner-Herbert Employers listen up: If you want to review a job candidate’s credit history, criminal records and other personal information on a background-check report, you must first obtain written consent from the candidate, per the employment provisions of the Fair Credit Reporting Act. And if you find something you
- [Stay Compliant with GroupOne’s Sanction List Screening](https://gp1.com/stay-compliant-with-groupones-sanction-list-screening/) - Fraud-prone providers slipping into states' Medicaid programs, OIG says Excepted from Becker Hospital Review By Morgan Haefner Some state aren't properly screening Medicaid providers who are at high risk for fraud, waste and abuse, according to a report from HHS' Office of Inspector General. A survey found 18 states had failed to implement a fingerprint-based
- [Emojis – can they cause trouble in the workplace?](https://gp1.com/emojis-can-they-cause-trouble-in-the-workplace/) - The latest in HR news from GroupOne Background Screening! Excerpted from a Vinson & Elkins LLP blog by Jason A. Levine As emojis have morphed from a cute novelty into a staple element of business communication, they have begun to pose liability risks to companies. Many of these risks stem from the fact that emojis
- [Even Volunteers need to be checked - GroupOne Volunteer Screening](https://gp1.com/even-volunteers-need-to-be-checked-groupone-does-volunteer-background-screening/) - Excerpted from KESQ News Channel 3 By Lauren Coronado Second man arrested in child abuse case was also a parent-volunteer at local charter school. News Channel 3 has confirmed the second man arrested in a child abuse case last month was also parent-volunteer at a local charter school. James Anderson, 31, of Palm Desert was
- [GroupOne - a “one-stop” shop for I-9 Solution and E-Verify](https://gp1.com/groupone-background-screening-is-a-one-stop-shop-for-i-9-solution-and-e-verify/) - Check out the story below on U.S. controversy on the hiring of illegal workers. And don’t hesitate to contact GroupOne at sales@gp1.com for your employment verification needs! Excerpted from Washington Examiner By Paul Bedard 64% back Dunkin's war on stores hiring illegal workers A majority of voters, Republicans and Democrats, back efforts by world famous
- [Did you know GroupOne provides Drug Screening?](https://gp1.com/did-you-know-groupone-provides-drug-screening/) - Drug testing – money in your company’s pocket A safe workplace is a happy workplace, with decreased absenteeism, improved production and minimal turnover. An effective drug testing program is a crucial part of that safety equation. Here at GroupOne Background Screening, we’ve been providing effective drug testing programs for over a decade. We offer state-of-the-art
- [California becomes first state to ban Natural Hairstyle Discrimination](https://gp1.com/california-passes-crown-act-becomes-first-state-to-ban-natural-hairstyle-discrimination/) - Excerpted from Lexology By Squire Patton Boggs On April 30, 2019, we reported that the California State Senate had taken steps toward enacting the CROWN Act (Creating a Respectful and Open Workplace for Natural Hair) to prohibit discrimination on the basis of “traits historically associated with one’s race, such as hair texture and protective hairstyles.”
- [Continuous background checks a growing safety trend](https://gp1.com/continuous-background-checks-a-growing-safety-trend/) - With such high-profile incidents as an Uber Eats driver in Atlanta who allegedly shot and killed a customer in February, employers have increasingly been inspired to root out problematic employees. And for good reason! Today, studies show 33% of employees admit to stealing money from employers and that 30% of business failures are related to
- [Macy's accused of discrimination due to criminal history](https://gp1.com/macys-accused-of-racial-discrimination-on-the-basis-of-criminal-history/) - Excerpted from HR Dive By Jennifer Carsen Macy's Chief Diversity Officer, Shawn Outler, said in an emailed statement that the company's policy is not to comment on pending litigation. "We are committed to ensuring the safety and security of our colleagues and customers, securing proprietary business information, and safeguarding confidential customer, colleague and company data.
- [EEOC sues Valley Tool for disability discrimination](https://gp1.com/eeoc-sues-valley-tool-for-disability-discrimination-and-retaliation/) - Excerpted from JD Supra by U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) Company Punished Employees for Complaining About Mistreatment, Federal Agency Charges OXFORD, Miss. - A tool company operating in Water Valley, Miss., violated federal civil rights laws when it denied an employee a reasonable accommodation for her disability, fired her and then punished her for
- [West Virginia to provide free college tuition if students pass drug test](https://gp1.com/west-virginia-will-now-provide-free-community-college-tuition-if-students-can-pass-a-drug-test/) - Excerpted from Pacific Standard By Kelley Czajka The program is the first in the country to introduce drug testing as an eligibility requirement. Beginning this week, West Virginia residents will be eligible for free community college tuition for an associate's degree or training certificate if they can meet certain requirements, including passing a drug test
- [I2Verify - Happy, productive and engaged employees](https://gp1.com/i2verify-happy-productive-and-engaged-employees-the-employment-verification-guide/) - Guest blog by GroupOne partner i2Verify As an HR professional, you are probably aware that 7 out of every 10 American workers are either disengaged or dislike their jobs. This shocking statistic is based on an extensive ongoing study conducted by Gallup regarding the American workplace. Management puts pressure on HR to improve these statistics
- [Meals on Wheels volunteers must submit fingerprints for background checks](https://gp1.com/why-meals-on-wheels-volunteers-now-must-submit-fingerprints-for-background-checks/) - Excerpted from Gainesville Times By Joshua Silavent When former Gov. Nathan Deal signed a law in May 2018 to require background checks for caregivers, it was met with a no-brainer kind of reaction. The law, which will take effect this October, aims to root out abuse of elderly and disabled individuals through the creation of
- [The state of renters' rights in Minneapolis](https://gp1.com/the-state-of-renters-rights-in-minneapolis/) - Excerpted from Minnesota Daily By J.D. Duggan Amid the tight Minneapolis housing market, City Council members and state lawmakers seek to balance the power dynamic between renters and landlords. A variety of citywide renter protection policies have passed since 2017, and the Minnesota Student Association pushed a bill recently passed by the Legislature to advocate
- [Should you run a background check on freelancers?](https://gp1.com/should-you-run-a-background-check-on-freelancers/) - Excerpted from BOSS Magazine By BOSS Editorial Team Not long ago, even the most minor hires held a lot of gravity. You would spend time tracking down the right person or company, do your due diligence, and meet with them in person. However, today’s world is way too immediate to work like that. If you
- [Employers paid out $174M to resolve background-check lawsuits](https://gp1.com/employers-paid-out-174m-to-resolve-background-check-lawsuits/) - Excerpted from HR Dive By Valerie Bolden-Barrett Dive Brief: • In the past decade, employers resolving class-action lawsuits over alleged background check violations paid out a total of $174 million, a new compilation of court records showed. • The companies that provided those reports to employers paid another $152 million when they were sued directly
- [Oakland County bans criminal history box on government applications](https://gp1.com/oakland-county-bans-criminal-history-box-on-government-job-applications/) - Excerpted from The Oakland Press By Mark Cavitt Oakland County has "banned the box." On June 12, the county board of commissioners approved a resolution, by party line vote, that prohibits the county from inquiring about someone's criminal history during the pre-employment screening process. Beginning Aug. 1, only applications for jobs that require a pre-employment
- [Nevada to make it illegal to refuse employment for marijuana](https://gp1.com/nevada-is-the-first-u-s-state-to-make-it-illegal-to-refuse-employment-for-marijuana-usage-and-it-wont-be-the-last/) - Excerpted from Inc. By Suzanne Lucas Nevada wasn't the first state to approve recreational marijuana usage, but it is the first to make it illegal to discriminate against users. That's not the language used in the bill, but that's what the law does. Instead of leaving it up to an employer to determine if they
- [Lawsuit: Schools breaking law by withholding drug test results](https://gp1.com/lawsuit-clayton-schools-breaking-law-by-withholding-drug-test-results/) - Excerpted from The Atlanta Journal-Constitution By Marlon A. Walker A lawsuit was filed in Clayton County Superior Court on behalf of a longtime Clayton County Public Schools educator who alleges school district officials are trying to terminate him over a false-positive drug test. The attorney for Ed Blackwood said district officials will not allow them
- [Burning Man could start drug screenings at entrances, federal agency says](https://gp1.com/burning-man-could-start-drug-screening-at-all-entrances-federal-agency-says/) - Excerpted from The Sacramento Bee By Michael McGough For some of its participants, drug screenings at Burning Man would pretty much defeat the purpose of the 9½-day event. But that’s one of several changes the Bureau of Land Management could implement among special recreation permit requirements in the near future of the event, according to
- [Three vessels to culture engagement](https://gp1.com/three-vessels-to-culture-engagement/) - Excerpted from SHRM Blog By David Kovacovich We've been tackling culture within organizations since the turn of the century when the pendulum began to swing from micro-management to employee empowerment. Companies like Zappos and Google put their brand on the map by offering corporate campuses that resembled summer camps. Suddenly HR was being heard as
- [Will bankruptcies show up on a background check?](https://gp1.com/will-bankruptcies-show-up-on-a-background-check/) - Here at GroupOne Background Screening, we receive daily questions on a number of issues, but one of the most common is if a background check will reveal a Chapter 7 bankruptcy? If so, from how long ago? The simple answer is, yes bankruptcies can be discovered. While they are often seen as a negative, it
- [Bus driver arrested, suspected of DUI](https://gp1.com/bus-driver-arrested-suspected-of-dui/) - Excerpted from KPCW By Renai Bodley Miller The driver of a Park City bus is suspected of driving under the influence after the bus went off the road Saturday morning. Only the driver and a passenger were on board, and neither one was injured according to Summit County officials. The incident happened around 8am on
- [City braces for protests ahead of 'drag queen story time'](https://gp1.com/city-of-leander-braces-for-demonstrations-ahead-of-drag-queen-story-time/) - Excerptd from FOXSanAntonio By Jordan Bontke As the City of Leander is preparing for demonstrators for an upcoming drag queen story time event, the pastor of the hosting church said the city needs a progressive worship space. On Saturday, Ryan Hart of the Open Cathedral Church will host 150 people who were given free tickets
- [#MeToo Liability: Coverage issues for employers](https://gp1.com/metoo-liability-coverage-issues-for-employers/) - Excerpted from Lexology By Brandi L. Doniere and Kerri L. Keller The #MeToo movement began to spread on social media in 2017, fueled by the improprieties of Roger Ailes, Harvey Weinstein and others in the public eye that came to light. The flood of allegations against men in powerful positions has encouraged others to come
- [Should you be promoted every three years?](https://gp1.com/should-you-be-promoted-every-three-years/) - Excerpted from The SHRM Blog By Tim Sackett If you didn’t catch it this week, a job board executive came out with how often you should be promoted early in your career. Basically, he said it should be every three years. Do you agree? Early-career employees should aim to get a promotion around every three
- [Who will be allowed in Daytona homeless shelter?](https://gp1.com/who-will-be-allowed-in-daytona-homeless-shelter/) - Excerpted from The Daytona Beach News-Journal by Eileen Zaffiro-Kean Four months before First Step Shelter is slated to open, decisions about who can stay there and what the rules will be once they’re welcomed inside as residents are still a work in progress. DAYTONA BEACH — Four weeks ago, City Commissioner Quanita May called for
- [Law requires background checks for court-appointed advocates](https://gp1.com/new-law-requires-dhs-background-checks-for-court-appointed-advocates/) - Excerpted from The Ada News By Eric Swanson A new law requiring an additional background check for people who want to become advocates is a major step forward for the 22nd Judicial District's Court Appointed Advocates program, the program's executive director said Friday. We really work hard to vet our volunteers to ensure that they're
- [You can fly with medical marijuana: TSA updates its policy](https://gp1.com/you-can-now-fly-with-medical-marijuana-tsa-updates-its-policy-regarding-cbd-products-on-flights/) - Excerpted from JD Supra, LLC by David Standa Over the Memorial Day weekend, the TSA updated its policy regarding cannabis. Specifically, the TSA updated the “Medical Marijuana” category of its “What Can I Bring?” section of its website from “No” to “Yes (Special Instructions)” for both carry-on and checked baggage. However, the “Special Instructions,” which
- [Improve talent retention with this new approach](https://gp1.com/improve-talent-retention-with-this-new-approach-to-leadership-development/) - Excerpted from SHRM Blog By Ginger Dunca, MA Do you have an intentional leadership development strategy? As Henry Ford once said, “The only thing worse than training your employees and having them leave is not training them and having them stay.” Henry Ford’s words have never been more pertinent as organizations struggle to hang onto
- [TWC and Charter pay $99,500 in EEOC settlement](https://gp1.com/time-warner-cable-and-charter-communications-to-pay-99500-to-settle-eeoc-disability-lawsuit/) - Excerpted from The National Law Review By U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission Time Warner Cable, Inc. and Charter Communications, Inc. agreed to pay $99,500 and provide other relief to settle a disability discrimination lawsuit filed by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), the agency announced today. The U.S. District Court for the Central District
- [The city of Kansas City, Missouri bans salary history inquiries](https://gp1.com/the-city-of-kansas-city-missouri-bans-salary-history-inquiries/) - Excerpted from Lexology By Stinson LLP Kansas City employers soon will be prohibited from asking job applicants about their salary history information, including prior compensation and benefits. Under a new ordinance passed by the KCMO City Council on Thursday, May 23, 2019, such inquiries will no longer be allowed effective October 31, 2019. Specifically, the
- [Job candidates have evolved in today’s marketplace](https://gp1.com/job-candidates-have-evolved-in-todays-marketplace/) - Blog by Danny Davila, Executive Director, GroupOne Background Screening The struggle continues as we try to build the ideal pipeline of qualified candidates for healthcare systems. A significant amount of resources is invested annually in training, marketing, advertising and development to tap into potential candidate pools that may not exist. This challenge has been an
- [Ignorance of the risks of social media background checks is ‘Widespread’.](https://gp1.com/ignorance-of-the-risks-of-social-media-background-checks-is-widespread/) - Excerpted from The Global Recruiter By Newsdesk Background and identity services provider Sterling has called for greater awareness around the intricacies and potential risks behind social media background checks. This comes following a survey which revealed that most HR professionals are not using these channels to vet candidates due to a lack of clarity around
- [Seattle fair housing law most progressive in U.S., landlords fighting back](https://gp1.com/seattles-fair-housing-law-is-the-most-progressive-in-the-country-but-now-landlords-are-challenging-it/) - Excerpted from NBC News By Charlotte West Christopher Poulos was offered the chance to work for the Obama administration during his third year of law school in 2015. Although he had previously been convicted of a federal felony, he was eventually able to gain the top-secret eligible national security position clearance required for the position.
- [How looser medical marijuana laws could bite NY in the bud](https://gp1.com/how-looser-medical-marijuana-laws-could-bite-ny-in-the-bud/) - Excerpted from Gothamist By Amina Srna As New York’s legislature struggles to reach a consensus on how to legalize recreational marijuana, some lawmakers are also seeking to expand the state’s existing medical marijuana program, which is one of the most restrictive in the country. Senator Diane Savino and Assemblyman Richard Gottfried are co-sponsoring a new
- [Fresno company allowed harassment of Hispanics, now they’ve settled](https://gp1.com/fresno-company-allowed-harassment-of-hispanic-workers-lawsuit-alleged-now-theyve-settled/) - Excerpted from The Fresno Bee By Tim Sheehan Papé Material Handling has settled a federal lawsuit filed on behalf of Hispanic employees at the company’s Fresno location who alleged that they were victims of harassment based on their ethnicity. The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission announced the $650,000 settlement on Tuesday. The agency filed the
- [Man charged with wrong-way driving has history of similar gaffes](https://gp1.com/man-charged-with-wrong-way-driving-on-i-80-has-history-of-driving-the-wrong-way/) - Excerpted from KCRG By Josh Scheinblum The man police say drove the wrong way on Interstate 80 near West Branch has been charged in the accident. 60-year-old Leif McGowan was charged with driving on the wrong side of a two-way highway stemming from an incident that happened on Thursday. Investigators believe McGowan's semi plowed through
- [Pilot accused of three murders had prior criminal record](https://gp1.com/pilot-accused-of-3-murders-had-criminal-record-prior-to-being-hired-to-fly/) - Excerpted from CBS News By Kris Van Cleave The airline pilot accused in three Kentucky murders served in the U.S. Army and Army Reserve for 20 years and had been found guilty of assault on a child under the age of 16 in 2016, CBS News has confirmed. On Saturday, Christian Richard Martin, a pilot
- [Uber and Lyft’s driver background checks didn’t catch alleged war criminal](https://gp1.com/uber-and-lyfts-driver-background-checks-didnt-catch-alleged-war-criminal/) - Excerpted from The Daily Caller post by Evie Fordham An alleged Somali war criminal made it through Uber and Lyft’s background check systems, becoming a ride-share driver in the U.S. Yusuf Abdi Ali, a veteran of the Somali military, told undercover CNN reporters who hopped in his car about how easy getting approved as a
- [New York City bans pre-employment marijuana tests](https://gp1.com/new-york-city-bans-pre-employment-marijuana-tests/) - Excerpted from a Seyfarth Shaw LLP blog by Jennifer L. Mora While it has been a challenge for employers to keep up with the explosion of medical and recreational marijuana laws spreading across the nation, employers have taken some comfort in that most of these states still grant employers the right to maintain a drug-free
- [On the road – GroupOne hosting booths in Houston and Austin](https://gp1.com/on-the-road-groupone-hosting-booths-in-houston-and-austin/) - GroupOne Background Screening is headed to two separate locations today in the Lone Star State. First stop is Houston for the Gulf Coast Symposium on HR Issues, May 15-17 at the NRG Center. They will also hit the road for Austin for Modern Healthcare’s Transformation Summit, May 16-17 at the Sheraton Austin Hotel at the
- [Sex offender worked for Census Bureau; background checks called "inadequate"](https://gp1.com/sex-offender-worked-for-census-bureau-agency-warned-background-check-system-was-inadequate/) - Excerpted from Fox 46 By Matthew Grant A FOX 46 investigation has uncovered a reported flaw in the Census Bureau's background check system. This comes after the discovery that a registered child sex offender was given a job with the Charlotte agency. The Census Bureau was told a year ago that its background check system
- [Woman arrested for bringing doctor-recommended CBD oil to Disney World](https://gp1.com/woman-arrested-for-bringing-doctor-recommended-cbd-oil-to-disney-world/) - Excerpted from Mashable By Morgan Sung A family trip to Disney World came to a halt when a great-grandmother was arrested for carrying CBD oil, which her doctor recommended to ease her arthritis. Hester Burkhalter, 69, was arrested on Apr. 15 and charged with felony possession of hashish. The Tampa Bay Times reports that Burkhalter
- [Using social media in background checks can be risky for employers](https://gp1.com/using-social-media-in-background-checks-can-be-risky-for-employers/) - Excerpted from The Oklahoman By Paula Burkes Can you tell us more about the increasing popularity to include social media in background checks? Full disclosure: Social media was in its infancy when I was interviewing for my first job. MySpace was huge, and Facebook was only at a handful of universities. Then, social-media users and
- [As the war for talent rages, businesses turn to Staffing Agencies](https://gp1.com/as-the-war-for-talent-rages-businesses-turn-to-staffing-agencies/) - Excerpted from HR Technologist By Marco Piovesan Unemployment claims have fallen to their lowest level in fifty years. This has been driven in part by the recent boom in the technology and gig industries. Finding work is faster and easier than ever before; finding qualified employees, however, is a different matter. Recruiting and hiring skilled
- [On the road – GroupOne hosting booth at OKHR event](https://gp1.com/on-the-road-groupone-hosting-booth-at-okhr-event/) - GroupOne Background Screening is headed north to the Oklahoma Human Resources Council (OKHR) Annual Conference & Expo, May 8-10 at the Embassy Suites in Norman, Oklahoma. The OKHR Conference will connect you to valuable resources and people transforming the HR industry. This conference showcases cutting-edge keynote speakers, over 40 sessions and 70-plus exhibitors. Account Representative
- [Does your kid's camp do background checks on counselors?](https://gp1.com/does-your-kids-camp-do-background-checks-on-counselors/) - Excerpted from azcentral.com By Lauren Castle In Arizona, child-care centers and many day camps must do criminal background checks on staff. But there is no such requirement for overnight camps. Arizona is one of 18 states that do not require overnight camps to perform criminal background checks on staff and volunteers. Some overnight camp organizers
- [Overdoses in California prisons up 113% with nearly 1,000 incidents](https://gp1.com/overdoses-in-california-prisons-up-113-in-three-years-nearly-1000-incidents-in-2018/) - Excerpted from San Francisco Chronicle By Megan Cassidy Nearly 1,000 men and women in California prisons overdosed last year and required emergency medical attention in what officials acknowledge is part of an alarming spike in opioid use by those behind bars, according to records obtained by The Chronicle. The number of inmates treated for drug
- [Despite background check, jailer's hiring in Harrison County a mystery](https://gp1.com/despite-background-check-process-accused-jailers-hiring-in-harrison-county-a-mystery/) - Excerpted from Longview News Journal By Jimmy Daniell Isaac Harrison County Sheriff’s Office officials say they stringently check employment backgrounds before hiring applicants, but what happened when Roger Valentine was hired six years ago is a mystery. Valentine, 53, was a transport deputy for the Harrison County Jail when he resigned in February on suspicion
- [The eyes (and privacy laws) of Texas are upon you…](https://gp1.com/the-eyes-and-privacy-laws-of-texas-are-upon-you/) - Excerpted from JDSUPRA By Husch Blackwell LLP Consistent with the cliché that “everything’s bigger in Texas,” the Texas legislature has introduced not one, but two separate bills relating to the privacy of personal information. Although still in their nascent stages, both bills are following California’s lead in creating enhanced and stringent privacy protections for individual
- [Waste company settles EEOC claim that it refused to interview female driver](https://gp1.com/waste-company-settles-eeoc-claim-that-it-refused-to-interview-female-driver/) - Excerpted from HR Dive By Lisa Burden Dive Brief: • American Pride Waste Solutions, Inc., has agreed to pay $32,500 to settle a sex discrimination lawsuit alleging it refused to interview a qualified, female candidate for a driving job. • The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) alleged in a 2018 lawsuit that the South
- [Cheating on employer-required drug tests on the rise in Arizona](https://gp1.com/cheating-on-employer-required-drug-tests-on-the-rise-in-arizona/) - Excerpted from 3TV/CBS 5 By Morgan Loew The number of people caught cheating on employer-required drug tests rose by 40% from 2017 to 2018, according to figures compiled by Quest Diagnostics. "This is common," said Tim Terrill, the owner of ARCPoint Labs of Scottsdale - North. He says the most common forms of cheating include
- [Super charge talent acquisition by hiring those with criminal backgrounds](https://gp1.com/super-charge-your-talent-acquisition-plan-by-hiring-those-with-criminal-backgrounds/) - Excerpted from SHRM Blog By Christina Melton Crain,Esq. There is no doubt that the success of a company is determined by those it employs; thereby making acquisition of the appropriate and necessary talent a key priority for any business. However, with the job market tightening, employers are experiencing more difficulty in recruiting and hiring qualified
- [Starbucks prepares to settle lawsuits over background checks](https://gp1.com/starbucks-prepares-to-settle-lawsuits-over-flawed-background-checks/) - Excerpted from Law.com By Greg Land Two pending class action lawsuits accusing Seattle-based coffee chain Starbucks of violating the Fair Credit Reporting Act by using flawed background reports to reject job applicants are being combined in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Georgia in preparation for a settlement. According to pleadings in
## Pages
- [Home](https://gp1.com/) - GroupOne Solutions Simple. Transparent. Tailored. Our growing range of screening services can be bundled to fit your hiring needs.
- [Contact](https://gp1.com/contact/) - Contact GroupOne for Background, Drug & Employment Screening Call or Email Our Team Have questions about background checks, drug screening, student screening or verification of employment? Share a few details below and our specialists will respond within one business day during business hours (Mon–Fri, 8 AM–5 PM CST). Prefer To Talk?Call (800)-683-0255 Your Contact DetailsName,
- [Verification of Employment](https://gp1.com/verification-of-employment/) - Verification of Employment (VOE) It is important to conduct screenings at regular intervals throughout an employee’s tenure. Post-employment screening ensures your company will minimize exposure to risk. Verification of Employment (VOE) Here at GroupOne Background Screening, we want our clients to know we are here for you. We know that in today’s uncertain times, providing Verification
- [Student Screening](https://gp1.com/student-screening/) - Student Screening GroupOne provides background checks and drug screening for schools and higher education. This is a great option covering pre-employment screening for employees, faculty, and student employees as well as student screening of those participating in healthcare programs. Student Screening With today’s changing environment for collegesand universites, you want to make sure students, faculty
- [Background Screening](https://gp1.com/background-screening/) - Background Screening GroupOne provides pre and post-employment background check solutions at every level, from criminal records to national federal records. We are here to help you make a safe ad quick decision. Background Screening GroupOne offers a comprehensive set of employment background screening solutions to ensure you get the important facts you need to make
- [Post-Employment](https://gp1.com/post-employment/) - Post-Employment Sanctions & Rechecks It is important to conduct screenings at regular intervals throughout an employee’s tenure. Post-employment screening ensures your company will minimize exposure to risk. Post-Employment Sanctions & rechecks Did you know 33% of employees admit to stealing a product or money from employers and that 30% of business failures are directly related
- [Drug Screening](https://gp1.com/drug-screening/) - Drug Screening Whether you need pre-employment screening or random employee drug tests, GroupOne services your specific needs to provide accurate results returned within 24 hours. Drug Screening GroupOne partners with i3screen for proven, state-of-the-art drug screenings. The integrated solution provides a one-stop shop for background and drug screening. Turnaround time is 24 hours for negative
- [Web Verify](https://gp1.com/web-verify/) - Verify employment history for current, past, and prospective employees with GroupOne's Web Verify. Fast, secure, and reliable employment verification.
- [About](https://gp1.com/about-groupone-services/) - About GroupOne Services: Trusted provider of background screening, drug testing, and compliance solutions to help businesses make informed hiring decisions.
- [Salary Survey Has Been Retired](https://gp1.com/salary-survey-retired/) - Our Salary Survey Service Has Been Officially Retired Thank you for your interest in GroupOne’s Salary Survey Service. After years of providing valuable salary and benefits data to our participants, we have made the decision to retire this service as of January 2025. We deeply appreciate the trust and support you have placed in GroupOne over
- [Industries](https://gp1.com/industries/) - experience the difference Where professional screening meets quality results. Contact Us Industries We Serve Healthcare GroupOne was founded on the belief that patients deserve safe and dependable care. Today, we have developed an extensive set of employee screening solutions that help healthcare employers find the most qualified staff. Our employee background screening tools are proven
- [Services](https://gp1.com/services/) - Tailored Screening Solutions GroupOne partners with a number of different businesses just like yours. We understand that every employer has a distinct set of hiring needs. At GroupOne, our growing range of screening services can be bundled to fit your exact hiring needs. Our process is simple, transparent, and tailored to give you the time
- [Company News](https://gp1.com/company-news/) - GroupOne Company News Stay up to date on the latest industry news. Why would a youth league not conduct background checks? News August 5, 2026 You got me. Here at GroupOne Background Screening, we would assume a youth league would be the first place people would conduct background checks on coaches who supervise our children.
- [VLOG](https://gp1.com/vlog/) - GroupOne’s webinar “Power Tips and Tricks: Unlocking the Secrets of the GroupOne Platform.” Originally broadcast on July 30, 2026, the webinar featured GroupOne HR expert David Graves, GroupOne’s Business Operations Specialist Steve Fischer, and GroupOne’s Communications Director Chris Wilson. The event was a great opportunity to hear from the experts as they provided tips on
- [Thank You](https://gp1.com/thank-you/) - THANK YOU! We appreciate your interest in GroupOne Services. Someone will be in contact with you soon.
- [Consumer Info](https://gp1.com/consumer-info/) - Learn about Consumer Information CONSUMER REPORTING AGENCY GroupOne Services is a “consumer reporting agency” operating under the legal authority of the federal Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). This provides employers the ability to share information on former employees through a third party reporting agency such as GroupOne.Under the FCRA, employers who furnish such information are
- [Frequently Asked Questions](https://gp1.com/faqs/) - Frequently Asked Questions Why do I see an order for Quick Screen and one for History when I only want one order? When your package order is completed and submitted, the Quick Screen and History all become a part of that report. Quick Screen and History items shown in your reports list may indicate a
## Venues
- [Irving Convention Center](https://gp1.com/venue/irving-convention-center/)
- [Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center - Grapevine](https://gp1.com/venue/gaylord-texan-resort-convention-center-grapevine/)
- [Online](https://gp1.com/venue/online/)
## Organizers
- [GroupOne Background Screening](https://gp1.com/organizer/groupone-background-screening/)
- [Dallas Fort Worth Hospital Council](https://gp1.com/organizer/dallas-fort-worth-hospital-council/)
- [PBSA](https://gp1.com/organizer/pbsa/)
- [](https://gp1.com/organizer/602/)
## Events
- [GroupOne webinar “Power Tips and Tricks” on July 30!](https://gp1.com/event/groupone-webinar-power-tips-and-tricks-on-july-30/) - You don’t want to miss this! Here’s a great opportunity to speak to the GroupOne Background Screening experts during the webinar “Power Tips and Tricks: Unlocking the Secrets of the GroupOne Platform” in just one week next Thursday, July 30 from 2:00 – 3:00 p.m., CDT. Speakers will include David Graves, GroupOne’s sales representative and HR Guru, and Steve Fischer, business
- [National Webinar: "GroupOne Background Screening: A Healthcare Partner in Safety and Compliance"](https://gp1.com/event/national-webinar-groupone-background-screening-a-healthcare-partner-in-safety-and-compliance/) - We’re in the spotlight! GroupOne Background Screening will be highlighted during a national webinar on May 28 from 11:00 a.m. to 12 noon, CDT. Titled “GroupOne Background Screening: A Healthcare Partner in Safety and Compliance,” the event is part of a series of webinars hosted in coordination with the Conference of Metropolitan Hospital Associations (CMHA) highlighting national
- [GroupOne webinar "Behind the Curtain: An HR Director's Perspective on Background Screening"](https://gp1.com/event/groupone-webinar-behind-the-curtain-an-hr-directors-perspective-on-background-screening/) - We always enjoy a discussion between experts! Join us for GroupOne Background Screening’s webinar “Behind the Curtain: An HR Director's Perspective on Background Screening” on Wednesday, August 6 from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m., CDT. This unique presentation will detail a conversation between new DFW Hospital Council HR Director Leah Whitworth and GroupOne’s HR Guru David
- [GroupOne webinar “Common Mistakes in Background Screening”](https://gp1.com/event/groupone-webinar-common-mistakes-in-background-screening/) - Would you like to avoid legal disasters, bad hiring decisions and squandered resources? So would we! Join us as we discuss these topics during GroupOne Background Screening’s webinar “Common Mistakes in Background Screening, And How to Avoid Them” on Thursday, Jan. 23 from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m., CT. In today’s fast-evolving employment landscape, background screening
- [GroupOne Webinar "Rechecks: Why They Matter"](https://gp1.com/event/groupone-webinar-rechecks-why-they-matter/) - What’s the scoop on Rechecks? We’ll provide the answer during GroupOne Background Screening’s webinar “Rechecks: Why They Matter” on Wednesday, August 21 from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m., CT. During this live discussion, we will provide examples of different types of Rechecks that will keep your company safe and secure. We will also detail real-life scenarios
- [GroupOne Webinar: "Drug Screening 2024: Should We Still Test for Marijuana?"](https://gp1.com/event/groupone-webinar-drug-screening-2024-should-we-still-test-for-marijuana/) - What’s legal? What’s not? And should we still test for marijuana?! These questions and more will be answered during GroupOne Background Screening’s webinar “DRUG SCREENING 2024: Should we still test for marijuana? and other employer questions” on Thursday, April 11 from 2:00-3:00 p.m., CT. In the ever-changing landscape of HR, the practice of preemployment drug
- [Tips for Fees Management When Background Screening](https://gp1.com/event/tips-for-fees-management-when-background-screening/) - GroupOne Background Screening’s webinar series will continue Thursday, July 27 with “Tips for Fees Management When Background Screening” from 2:00-3:00 PM CT. You don’t want to miss this educational event with our expert speakers David Graves, HR guru and sales rep, and Danny Davila, director of FCRA Regulatory Risk.
- [PBSA 2023 Annual Conference](https://gp1.com/event/pbsa-2023-annual-conference/) - The 2023 PBSA Annual Conference stands as the most significant international event of the year. Once the opening night wraps up, conference attendees will be immersed in two full days of educational sessions with ample opportunities to engage with exhibitors, sponsors, and colleagues.
- [Dallas Fort Worth Hospital Council, 75th Anniversary, Annual Awards Luncheon](https://gp1.com/event/dallas-fort-worth-hospital-council-75th-anniversary-annual-awards-luncheon/) - Annual recognition of health care and community leaders event.
## Categories
- [Uncategorized](https://gp1.com/category/uncategorized/)
- [News](https://gp1.com/category/news/)
- [blog](https://gp1.com/category/blog/)
## Tags
- [Credit Checks](https://gp1.com/tag/credit-checks/)
- [GroupOne](https://gp1.com/tag/groupone/)
- [NAPBS](https://gp1.com/tag/napbs/)
- [Background Screening](https://gp1.com/tag/background-screening/)
- [Blog](https://gp1.com/tag/blog/)
- [Ban the Box](https://gp1.com/tag/ban-the-box/)
- [educational event](https://gp1.com/tag/educational-event/)
- [National Employment Law Project](https://gp1.com/tag/national-employment-law-project/)
- [leadership](https://gp1.com/tag/leadership/)
- [workforce](https://gp1.com/tag/workforce/)
- [Employment Law Worldview](https://gp1.com/tag/employment-law-worldview/)
- [Fair Chance Hiring Laws](https://gp1.com/tag/fair-chance-hiring-laws/)
- [Texas Law](https://gp1.com/tag/texas-law/)
- [healthcare](https://gp1.com/tag/healthcare/)
- [inspirational](https://gp1.com/tag/inspirational/)
- [Paul Kalanithi](https://gp1.com/tag/paul-kalanithi/)
- [networking](https://gp1.com/tag/networking/)
- [Oklahoma HR Conference and Expo](https://gp1.com/tag/oklahoma-hr-conference-and-expo/)
- [accio data](https://gp1.com/tag/accio-data/)
- [client support](https://gp1.com/tag/client-support/)
- [software](https://gp1.com/tag/software/)
- [technology](https://gp1.com/tag/technology/)
- [educational reports](https://gp1.com/tag/educational-reports/)
- [salary survey](https://gp1.com/tag/salary-survey/)
- [Gulf Coast Symposium](https://gp1.com/tag/gulf-coast-symposium/)
- [hr houston](https://gp1.com/tag/hr-houston/)
- [E-Verify](https://gp1.com/tag/e-verify/)
- [Form I9](https://gp1.com/tag/form-i9/)
- [webinar](https://gp1.com/tag/webinar/)
- [class action settlement recovery](https://gp1.com/tag/class-action-settlement-recovery/)
- [MCAG](https://gp1.com/tag/mcag/)
- [partnership](https://gp1.com/tag/partnership/)
- [Pass the Trash](https://gp1.com/tag/pass-the-trash/)
- [social media](https://gp1.com/tag/social-media/)
- [student screening](https://gp1.com/tag/student-screening/)
- [Important Information](https://gp1.com/tag/important-information/)
- [public safety](https://gp1.com/tag/public-safety/)
- [salary history](https://gp1.com/tag/salary-history/)
- [Nonprofits](https://gp1.com/tag/nonprofits/)
- [Volunteer Screening](https://gp1.com/tag/volunteer-screening/)
- [driving records](https://gp1.com/tag/driving-records/)
- [ride-sharing](https://gp1.com/tag/ride-sharing/)
- [holiday schedule](https://gp1.com/tag/holiday-schedule/)
- [consumer reporting agency](https://gp1.com/tag/consumer-reporting-agency/)
- [Fair Credit Reporting Act](https://gp1.com/tag/fair-credit-reporting-act/)
- [CUPA-HR](https://gp1.com/tag/cupa-hr/)
- [National Association for Health Care Recruitment](https://gp1.com/tag/national-association-for-health-care-recruitment/)
- [On the Road](https://gp1.com/tag/on-the-road/)
- [criminal history](https://gp1.com/tag/criminal-history/)
- [DFWHC](https://gp1.com/tag/dfwhc/)
- [immigration](https://gp1.com/tag/immigration/)
- [post-employment screening](https://gp1.com/tag/post-employment-screening/)
- [applicant tracking system](https://gp1.com/tag/applicant-tracking-system/)
- [Drug Screening](https://gp1.com/tag/drug-screening/)
- [drug testing](https://gp1.com/tag/drug-testing/)
- [employee safety](https://gp1.com/tag/employee-safety/)
- [hiring practices](https://gp1.com/tag/hiring-practices/)
- [opioids](https://gp1.com/tag/opioids/)
- [HR.com](https://gp1.com/tag/hr-com/)
- [privacy laws](https://gp1.com/tag/privacy-laws/)
- [school safety](https://gp1.com/tag/school-safety/)
- [Hall Render](https://gp1.com/tag/hall-render/)
- [human resources](https://gp1.com/tag/human-resources/)
- [workplace harassment](https://gp1.com/tag/workplace-harassment/)
- [data breach](https://gp1.com/tag/data-breach/)
- [security](https://gp1.com/tag/security/)
- [discrimination laws](https://gp1.com/tag/discrimination-laws/)
- [President Donald Trump](https://gp1.com/tag/president-donald-trump/)
- [U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission](https://gp1.com/tag/u-s-equal-employment-opportunity-commission/)
- [careerbuilder](https://gp1.com/tag/careerbuilder/)
- [customer support](https://gp1.com/tag/customer-support/)
- [survey](https://gp1.com/tag/survey/)
- [negligent hiring](https://gp1.com/tag/negligent-hiring/)
- [Customer Satisfaction Survey](https://gp1.com/tag/customer-satisfaction-survey/)
- [Legal](https://gp1.com/tag/legal/)
- [collection issues](https://gp1.com/tag/collection-issues/)
- [degreeverify](https://gp1.com/tag/degreeverify/)
- [urgent notice](https://gp1.com/tag/urgent-notice/)
- [federal background checks](https://gp1.com/tag/federal-background-checks/)
- [disaster preparedness](https://gp1.com/tag/disaster-preparedness/)
- [SHRM](https://gp1.com/tag/shrm/)
- [community](https://gp1.com/tag/community/)
- [community health](https://gp1.com/tag/community-health/)
- [community outreach](https://gp1.com/tag/community-outreach/)
- [DFWHC Foundation](https://gp1.com/tag/dfwhc-foundation/)
- [donation](https://gp1.com/tag/donation/)
- [hurricane harvey](https://gp1.com/tag/hurricane-harvey/)
- [public health](https://gp1.com/tag/public-health/)
- [DACA](https://gp1.com/tag/daca/)
- [employment law](https://gp1.com/tag/employment-law/)
- [marijuana use](https://gp1.com/tag/marijuana-use/)
- [bad hiring decision](https://gp1.com/tag/bad-hiring-decision/)
- [ASHHRA](https://gp1.com/tag/ashhra/)
- [conference](https://gp1.com/tag/conference/)
- [exhibit](https://gp1.com/tag/exhibit/)
- [DFWHHRA](https://gp1.com/tag/dfwhhra/)
- [Legislative Update](https://gp1.com/tag/legislative-update/)
- [Hurricane Maria](https://gp1.com/tag/hurricane-maria/)
- [HR Southwest](https://gp1.com/tag/hr-southwest/)
- [lie detection tests](https://gp1.com/tag/lie-detection-tests/)
- [personal appearance](https://gp1.com/tag/personal-appearance/)
- [policy](https://gp1.com/tag/policy/)
- [pay history](https://gp1.com/tag/pay-history/)
- [cyber risks](https://gp1.com/tag/cyber-risks/)
- [safety](https://gp1.com/tag/safety/)
- [uber](https://gp1.com/tag/uber/)
- [adverse action notice](https://gp1.com/tag/adverse-action-notice/)
- [job applicants](https://gp1.com/tag/job-applicants/)
- [Minor Screening](https://gp1.com/tag/minor-screening/)
- [Wage and Hours Laws](https://gp1.com/tag/wage-and-hours-laws/)
- [fines](https://gp1.com/tag/fines/)
- [lyft](https://gp1.com/tag/lyft/)
- [lawsuit](https://gp1.com/tag/lawsuit/)
- [data security](https://gp1.com/tag/data-security/)
- [employee law](https://gp1.com/tag/employee-law/)
- [sex offender lists](https://gp1.com/tag/sex-offender-lists/)
- [social security number](https://gp1.com/tag/social-security-number/)
- [bankruptcies](https://gp1.com/tag/bankruptcies/)
- [workers' compensation](https://gp1.com/tag/workers-compensation/)
- [President Obama](https://gp1.com/tag/president-obama/)
- [President Trump](https://gp1.com/tag/president-trump/)
- [Spokeo](https://gp1.com/tag/spokeo/)
- [U.S. Supreme Court](https://gp1.com/tag/u-s-supreme-court/)
- [references](https://gp1.com/tag/references/)
- [sexual harassment](https://gp1.com/tag/sexual-harassment/)
- [errors](https://gp1.com/tag/errors/)
- [updates](https://gp1.com/tag/updates/)
- [Financial Industry Regulatory Authority](https://gp1.com/tag/financial-industry-regulatory-authority/)
- [fingerprints](https://gp1.com/tag/fingerprints/)
- [employees](https://gp1.com/tag/employees/)
- [faculty screening](https://gp1.com/tag/faculty-screening/)
- [hot topic](https://gp1.com/tag/hot-topic/)
- [student safety](https://gp1.com/tag/student-safety/)
- [patient safety](https://gp1.com/tag/patient-safety/)
- [privacy](https://gp1.com/tag/privacy/)
- [benefits practices](https://gp1.com/tag/benefits-practices/)
- [pay practices](https://gp1.com/tag/pay-practices/)
- [vacancy and turnover](https://gp1.com/tag/vacancy-and-turnover/)
- [employment verification](https://gp1.com/tag/employment-verification/)
- [i2verify](https://gp1.com/tag/i2verify/)
- [verification](https://gp1.com/tag/verification/)
- [firearms](https://gp1.com/tag/firearms/)
- [trends](https://gp1.com/tag/trends/)
- [wage verification](https://gp1.com/tag/wage-verification/)
- [database](https://gp1.com/tag/database/)
- [YMCA](https://gp1.com/tag/ymca/)
- [disclosure](https://gp1.com/tag/disclosure/)
- [temporary employees](https://gp1.com/tag/temporary-employees/)
- [teacher screening](https://gp1.com/tag/teacher-screening/)
- [National Background Screening](https://gp1.com/tag/national-background-screening/)
- [diversity](https://gp1.com/tag/diversity/)
- [unconscious bias](https://gp1.com/tag/unconscious-bias/)
- [gender-nonbinary](https://gp1.com/tag/gender-nonbinary/)
- [transgender](https://gp1.com/tag/transgender/)
- [tenant screening](https://gp1.com/tag/tenant-screening/)
- [customer safety](https://gp1.com/tag/customer-safety/)
- [savings](https://gp1.com/tag/savings/)
- [child care](https://gp1.com/tag/child-care/)
- [certifications](https://gp1.com/tag/certifications/)
- [college degrees](https://gp1.com/tag/college-degrees/)
- [resumes](https://gp1.com/tag/resumes/)
- [school records](https://gp1.com/tag/school-records/)
- [turnaround time](https://gp1.com/tag/turnaround-time/)
- [U.S. Fair Housing Act](https://gp1.com/tag/u-s-fair-housing-act/)
- [resume fraud](https://gp1.com/tag/resume-fraud/)
- [homeschooling](https://gp1.com/tag/homeschooling/)
- [absenteeism](https://gp1.com/tag/absenteeism/)
- [insurance](https://gp1.com/tag/insurance/)
- [business practices](https://gp1.com/tag/business-practices/)
- [Internet](https://gp1.com/tag/internet/)
- [criminal history record information act](https://gp1.com/tag/criminal-history-record-information-act/)
- [federal law](https://gp1.com/tag/federal-law/)
- [Texas Organization of Rural and Community Hospitals](https://gp1.com/tag/texas-organization-of-rural-and-community-hospitals/)
- [TORCH](https://gp1.com/tag/torch/)
- [trade show](https://gp1.com/tag/trade-show/)
- [retail](https://gp1.com/tag/retail/)
- [Target](https://gp1.com/tag/target/)
- [long-term care](https://gp1.com/tag/long-term-care/)
- [autism](https://gp1.com/tag/autism/)
- [disabilities](https://gp1.com/tag/disabilities/)
- [identity theft](https://gp1.com/tag/identity-theft/)
- [client services](https://gp1.com/tag/client-services/)
- [coding](https://gp1.com/tag/coding/)
- [contract management services](https://gp1.com/tag/contract-management-services/)
- [PARA HealthCare Analytics](https://gp1.com/tag/para-healthcare-analytics/)
- [reimbursement](https://gp1.com/tag/reimbursement/)
- [revenue cycle management](https://gp1.com/tag/revenue-cycle-management/)
- [U.S. Youth Soccer](https://gp1.com/tag/u-s-youth-soccer/)
- [youth sports](https://gp1.com/tag/youth-sports/)
- [USA Wrestling](https://gp1.com/tag/usa-wrestling/)
- [U.S. Department of Justice](https://gp1.com/tag/u-s-department-of-justice/)
- [new laws](https://gp1.com/tag/new-laws/)
- [new technology](https://gp1.com/tag/new-technology/)
- [permission](https://gp1.com/tag/permission/)
- [innovation](https://gp1.com/tag/innovation/)
- [mental health](https://gp1.com/tag/mental-health/)
- [statistics](https://gp1.com/tag/statistics/)
- [homeless](https://gp1.com/tag/homeless/)
- [meals on wheels](https://gp1.com/tag/meals-on-wheels/)
- [babysitter](https://gp1.com/tag/babysitter/)
- [financial safety](https://gp1.com/tag/financial-safety/)
- [nursing homes](https://gp1.com/tag/nursing-homes/)
- [cryptocurrency](https://gp1.com/tag/cryptocurrency/)
- [currency](https://gp1.com/tag/currency/)
- [hackers](https://gp1.com/tag/hackers/)
- [employee benefits](https://gp1.com/tag/employee-benefits/)
- [day care safety](https://gp1.com/tag/day-care-safety/)
- [FBI](https://gp1.com/tag/fbi/)
- [gun safety](https://gp1.com/tag/gun-safety/)
- [Clean Slate Law](https://gp1.com/tag/clean-slate-law/)
- [consumer privacy](https://gp1.com/tag/consumer-privacy/)
- [consumer protection](https://gp1.com/tag/consumer-protection/)
- [personal information](https://gp1.com/tag/personal-information/)
- [politics](https://gp1.com/tag/politics/)
- [MeToo](https://gp1.com/tag/metoo/)
- [continuous background checks](https://gp1.com/tag/continuous-background-checks/)
- [federal trade commission](https://gp1.com/tag/federal-trade-commission/)
- [AHRMA](https://gp1.com/tag/ahrma/)
- [booth](https://gp1.com/tag/booth/)
- [pre-employment screening](https://gp1.com/tag/pre-employment-screening/)
- [history](https://gp1.com/tag/history/)
- [staff member](https://gp1.com/tag/staff-member/)
- [county records](https://gp1.com/tag/county-records/)
- [litigation](https://gp1.com/tag/litigation/)
- [public records](https://gp1.com/tag/public-records/)
- [inclusion](https://gp1.com/tag/inclusion/)
- [court case](https://gp1.com/tag/court-case/)
- [equal pay](https://gp1.com/tag/equal-pay/)
- [industry](https://gp1.com/tag/industry/)
- [verfications](https://gp1.com/tag/verfications/)
- [failed drug test](https://gp1.com/tag/failed-drug-test/)
- [poppy seeds](https://gp1.com/tag/poppy-seeds/)
- [Oklahoma](https://gp1.com/tag/oklahoma/)
- [coaching](https://gp1.com/tag/coaching/)
- [best practices](https://gp1.com/tag/best-practices/)
- [compliance](https://gp1.com/tag/compliance/)
- [licensure verification](https://gp1.com/tag/licensure-verification/)
- [U.S. Congress](https://gp1.com/tag/u-s-congress/)
- [new employees](https://gp1.com/tag/new-employees/)
- [recruitment](https://gp1.com/tag/recruitment/)
- [security freeze](https://gp1.com/tag/security-freeze/)
- [Coastal Bend Society for HR Management](https://gp1.com/tag/coastal-bend-society-for-hr-management/)
- [Medicaid Providers](https://gp1.com/tag/medicaid-providers/)
- [drivers license verification](https://gp1.com/tag/drivers-license-verification/)
- [immigrant children](https://gp1.com/tag/immigrant-children/)
- [consent](https://gp1.com/tag/consent/)
- [liability](https://gp1.com/tag/liability/)
- [EEOC](https://gp1.com/tag/eeoc/)
- [DallasHR](https://gp1.com/tag/dallashr/)
- [Occupational Safety and Health Administration](https://gp1.com/tag/occupational-safety-and-health-administration/)
- [Ghosting](https://gp1.com/tag/ghosting/)
- [job interview](https://gp1.com/tag/job-interview/)
- [voting laws](https://gp1.com/tag/voting-laws/)
- [Americans with Disabilities Act](https://gp1.com/tag/americans-with-disabilities-act/)
- [office etiquette](https://gp1.com/tag/office-etiquette/)
- [military](https://gp1.com/tag/military/)
- [sanction information](https://gp1.com/tag/sanction-information/)
- [amazon](https://gp1.com/tag/amazon/)
- [frito-lay](https://gp1.com/tag/frito-lay/)
- [better business bureau](https://gp1.com/tag/better-business-bureau/)
- [Consumer Financial Protection Bureau](https://gp1.com/tag/consumer-financial-protection-bureau/)
- [seven-year rule](https://gp1.com/tag/seven-year-rule/)
- [citizenship](https://gp1.com/tag/citizenship/)
- [age discrimination in employment act](https://gp1.com/tag/age-discrimination-in-employment-act/)
- [labor department](https://gp1.com/tag/labor-department/)
- [foreign candidates](https://gp1.com/tag/foreign-candidates/)
- [international screening](https://gp1.com/tag/international-screening/)
- [OFAC](https://gp1.com/tag/ofac/)
- [dress code](https://gp1.com/tag/dress-code/)
- [alcohol](https://gp1.com/tag/alcohol/)
- [diploma](https://gp1.com/tag/diploma/)
- [civil rights laws](https://gp1.com/tag/civil-rights-laws/)
- [ICRAA](https://gp1.com/tag/icraa/)
- [Texas Hospital Association](https://gp1.com/tag/texas-hospital-association/)
- [workplace violence](https://gp1.com/tag/workplace-violence/)
- [religious freedoms](https://gp1.com/tag/religious-freedoms/)
- [video](https://gp1.com/tag/video/)
- [texting](https://gp1.com/tag/texting/)
- [Florida](https://gp1.com/tag/florida/)
- [pay data](https://gp1.com/tag/pay-data/)
- [computer usage](https://gp1.com/tag/computer-usage/)
- [Frisco HR Summit](https://gp1.com/tag/frisco-hr-summit/)
- [email etiquette](https://gp1.com/tag/email-etiquette/)
- [Arkansas](https://gp1.com/tag/arkansas/)
- [work/life balance](https://gp1.com/tag/work-life-balance/)
- [Pittsburgh](https://gp1.com/tag/pittsburgh/)
- [Blue Cross Blue Shield](https://gp1.com/tag/blue-cross-blue-shield/)
- [Fearless Food Fight](https://gp1.com/tag/fearless-food-fight/)
- [digital age](https://gp1.com/tag/digital-age/)
- [Management](https://gp1.com/tag/management/)
- [Corporate Equality](https://gp1.com/tag/corporate-equality/)
- [human rights](https://gp1.com/tag/human-rights/)
- [LGBT](https://gp1.com/tag/lgbt/)
- [Louisiana Law](https://gp1.com/tag/louisiana-law/)
- [FCRA compliance](https://gp1.com/tag/fcra-compliance/)
- [HR Dive](https://gp1.com/tag/hr-dive/)
- [environmental influences](https://gp1.com/tag/environmental-influences/)
- [DNA](https://gp1.com/tag/dna/)
- [law enforcement](https://gp1.com/tag/law-enforcement/)
- [First Step Act](https://gp1.com/tag/first-step-act/)
- [The White House](https://gp1.com/tag/the-white-house/)
- [School Board](https://gp1.com/tag/school-board/)
- [college admissions](https://gp1.com/tag/college-admissions/)
- [Employee Assistance Program](https://gp1.com/tag/employee-assistance-program/)
- [substance abuse](https://gp1.com/tag/substance-abuse/)
- [CBS News](https://gp1.com/tag/cbs-news/)
- [criminal records](https://gp1.com/tag/criminal-records/)
- [Starbucks](https://gp1.com/tag/starbucks/)
- [second chance hiring](https://gp1.com/tag/second-chance-hiring/)
- [Arizona Medical Board](https://gp1.com/tag/arizona-medical-board/)
- [cheating on drug test](https://gp1.com/tag/cheating-on-drug-test/)
- [gender-based discrimination](https://gp1.com/tag/gender-based-discrimination/)
- [Texas Privacy Protection Act](https://gp1.com/tag/texas-privacy-protection-act/)
- [lawmakers](https://gp1.com/tag/lawmakers/)
- [The Texas Commission on Law Enforcement](https://gp1.com/tag/the-texas-commission-on-law-enforcement/)
- [drug overdose](https://gp1.com/tag/drug-overdose/)
- [inmates](https://gp1.com/tag/inmates/)
- [prisons](https://gp1.com/tag/prisons/)
- [American Camp Association](https://gp1.com/tag/american-camp-association/)
- [Staffing Agencies](https://gp1.com/tag/staffing-agencies/)
- [employers](https://gp1.com/tag/employers/)
- [hire](https://gp1.com/tag/hire/)
- [CBD Oil](https://gp1.com/tag/cbd-oil/)
- [Census Bureau](https://gp1.com/tag/census-bureau/)
- [Modern Healthcare](https://gp1.com/tag/modern-healthcare/)
- [arrest](https://gp1.com/tag/arrest/)
- [pilot](https://gp1.com/tag/pilot/)
- [CDL](https://gp1.com/tag/cdl/)
- [Iowa Department of Transportation](https://gp1.com/tag/iowa-department-of-transportation/)
- [Civil Rights Act of 1964](https://gp1.com/tag/civil-rights-act-of-1964/)
- [background checks](https://gp1.com/tag/background-checks/)
- [fair housing laws](https://gp1.com/tag/fair-housing-laws/)
- [U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics](https://gp1.com/tag/u-s-bureau-of-labor-statistics/)
- [Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990](https://gp1.com/tag/americans-with-disabilities-act-of-1990/)
- [employee performance](https://gp1.com/tag/employee-performance/)
- [employee retention](https://gp1.com/tag/employee-retention/)
- [organizational development](https://gp1.com/tag/organizational-development/)
- [professional](https://gp1.com/tag/professional/)
- [talent aquisiton](https://gp1.com/tag/talent-aquisiton/)
- [CBD](https://gp1.com/tag/cbd/)
- [FDA](https://gp1.com/tag/fda/)
- [DHS](https://gp1.com/tag/dhs/)
- [Volunteer](https://gp1.com/tag/volunteer/)
- [career advice](https://gp1.com/tag/career-advice/)
- [employee recognition](https://gp1.com/tag/employee-recognition/)
- [motivation](https://gp1.com/tag/motivation/)
- [promotions](https://gp1.com/tag/promotions/)
- [DUI](https://gp1.com/tag/dui/)
- [employee engagement](https://gp1.com/tag/employee-engagement/)
- [entitlement](https://gp1.com/tag/entitlement/)
- [banned illegal drugs](https://gp1.com/tag/banned-illegal-drugs/)
- [contraband](https://gp1.com/tag/contraband/)
- [freelance](https://gp1.com/tag/freelance/)
- [discrimination](https://gp1.com/tag/discrimination/)
- [rental history](https://gp1.com/tag/rental-history/)
- [healthcare employees](https://gp1.com/tag/healthcare-employees/)
- [healthcare quality](https://gp1.com/tag/healthcare-quality/)
- [drug abuse](https://gp1.com/tag/drug-abuse/)
- [tuition](https://gp1.com/tag/tuition/)
- [Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)](https://gp1.com/tag/americans-with-disabilities-act-ada/)
- [Disability Discrimination](https://gp1.com/tag/disability-discrimination/)
- [rechecks](https://gp1.com/tag/rechecks/)
- [anti-discrimination law](https://gp1.com/tag/anti-discrimination-law/)
- [CROWN Act](https://gp1.com/tag/crown-act/)
- [employee rights](https://gp1.com/tag/employee-rights/)
- [safe environment](https://gp1.com/tag/safe-environment/)
- [workplace safety](https://gp1.com/tag/workplace-safety/)
- [child safety](https://gp1.com/tag/child-safety/)
- [emojis](https://gp1.com/tag/emojis/)
- [CMS](https://gp1.com/tag/cms/)
- [OIG](https://gp1.com/tag/oig/)
- [new bill](https://gp1.com/tag/new-bill/)
- [ministry](https://gp1.com/tag/ministry/)
- [loan forgiveness](https://gp1.com/tag/loan-forgiveness/)
- [loans](https://gp1.com/tag/loans/)
- [non-profit employers](https://gp1.com/tag/non-profit-employers/)
- [PSLF](https://gp1.com/tag/pslf/)
- [repayment plans](https://gp1.com/tag/repayment-plans/)
- [student loans](https://gp1.com/tag/student-loans/)
- [education verification](https://gp1.com/tag/education-verification/)
- [charges](https://gp1.com/tag/charges/)
- [recreation centers](https://gp1.com/tag/recreation-centers/)
- [candidate attraction](https://gp1.com/tag/candidate-attraction/)
- [job postings](https://gp1.com/tag/job-postings/)
- [tobacco use](https://gp1.com/tag/tobacco-use/)
- [vaping](https://gp1.com/tag/vaping/)
- [salary history ban](https://gp1.com/tag/salary-history-ban/)
- [culture](https://gp1.com/tag/culture/)
- [customer experience](https://gp1.com/tag/customer-experience/)
- [U.S. Department of Health and Human Services](https://gp1.com/tag/u-s-department-of-health-and-human-services/)
- [Victims’ Economic Security and Safety Act (VESSA)](https://gp1.com/tag/victims-economic-security-and-safety-act-vessa/)
- [micro-management](https://gp1.com/tag/micro-management/)
- [skill development](https://gp1.com/tag/skill-development/)
- [private investigator](https://gp1.com/tag/private-investigator/)
- [ATS Integration](https://gp1.com/tag/ats-integration/)
- [HRIS](https://gp1.com/tag/hris/)
- [COPPA](https://gp1.com/tag/coppa/)
- [FTC](https://gp1.com/tag/ftc/)
- [online advertising](https://gp1.com/tag/online-advertising/)
- [YouTube](https://gp1.com/tag/youtube/)
- [childcare workers](https://gp1.com/tag/childcare-workers/)
- [unemployment](https://gp1.com/tag/unemployment/)
- [ethical values](https://gp1.com/tag/ethical-values/)
- [pay discrimination](https://gp1.com/tag/pay-discrimination/)
- [pay structure](https://gp1.com/tag/pay-structure/)
- [CEOs](https://gp1.com/tag/ceos/)
- [felonies](https://gp1.com/tag/felonies/)
- [success](https://gp1.com/tag/success/)
- [BBQ](https://gp1.com/tag/bbq/)
- [Football](https://gp1.com/tag/football/)
- [workflow](https://gp1.com/tag/workflow/)
- [medical insurance](https://gp1.com/tag/medical-insurance/)
- [Fort Worth](https://gp1.com/tag/fort-worth/)
- [identity verification](https://gp1.com/tag/identity-verification/)
- [Administrative Procedure Act (APA)](https://gp1.com/tag/administrative-procedure-act-apa/)
- [homeland security](https://gp1.com/tag/homeland-security/)
- [licensed private investigators](https://gp1.com/tag/licensed-private-investigators/)
- [safe community](https://gp1.com/tag/safe-community/)
- [Big Box Stores](https://gp1.com/tag/big-box-stores/)
- [delivery drivers](https://gp1.com/tag/delivery-drivers/)
- [Early Childhood Mental Health](https://gp1.com/tag/early-childhood-mental-health/)
- [State laws](https://gp1.com/tag/state-laws/)
- [FoodShare](https://gp1.com/tag/foodshare/)
- [U.S. Department of Agriculture](https://gp1.com/tag/u-s-department-of-agriculture/)
- [Child Protective Services](https://gp1.com/tag/child-protective-services/)
- [charity](https://gp1.com/tag/charity/)
- [holiday](https://gp1.com/tag/holiday/)
- [Toys for Tots](https://gp1.com/tag/toys-for-tots/)
- [crimes](https://gp1.com/tag/crimes/)
- [sexual assault](https://gp1.com/tag/sexual-assault/)
- [domestic violence](https://gp1.com/tag/domestic-violence/)
- [Mall Santa](https://gp1.com/tag/mall-santa/)
- [Santa](https://gp1.com/tag/santa/)
- [wifi](https://gp1.com/tag/wifi/)
- [FLSA](https://gp1.com/tag/flsa/)
- [nicotine users](https://gp1.com/tag/nicotine-users/)
- [wellness](https://gp1.com/tag/wellness/)
- [settlement](https://gp1.com/tag/settlement/)
- [Medical Marijuana Act](https://gp1.com/tag/medical-marijuana-act/)
- [criminal charges](https://gp1.com/tag/criminal-charges/)
- [food stamps](https://gp1.com/tag/food-stamps/)
- [residents](https://gp1.com/tag/residents/)
- [The Fair Chance Housing Ordinance](https://gp1.com/tag/the-fair-chance-housing-ordinance/)
- [leaders](https://gp1.com/tag/leaders/)
- [online dating](https://gp1.com/tag/online-dating/)
- [productivity](https://gp1.com/tag/productivity/)
- [profitability](https://gp1.com/tag/profitability/)
- [San Antonio](https://gp1.com/tag/san-antonio/)
- [THEHRA](https://gp1.com/tag/thehra/)
- [DHSS](https://gp1.com/tag/dhss/)
- [Medical Marijuana](https://gp1.com/tag/medical-marijuana/)
- [religious workers](https://gp1.com/tag/religious-workers/)
- [DOT](https://gp1.com/tag/dot/)
- [National Drug Screening](https://gp1.com/tag/national-drug-screening/)
- [Fair Chance Employment Act](https://gp1.com/tag/fair-chance-employment-act/)
- [workplace](https://gp1.com/tag/workplace/)
- [Center for Disease Control and Prevention](https://gp1.com/tag/center-for-disease-control-and-prevention/)
- [COVID-19](https://gp1.com/tag/covid-19/)
- [emergency](https://gp1.com/tag/emergency/)
- [coronavirus](https://gp1.com/tag/coronavirus/)
- [courts](https://gp1.com/tag/courts/)
- [government](https://gp1.com/tag/government/)
- [illness](https://gp1.com/tag/illness/)
- [clean](https://gp1.com/tag/clean/)
- [OSHA](https://gp1.com/tag/osha/)
- [ICE](https://gp1.com/tag/ice/)
- [pandemic](https://gp1.com/tag/pandemic/)
- [social distancing](https://gp1.com/tag/social-distancing/)
- [symptoms](https://gp1.com/tag/symptoms/)
- [trending](https://gp1.com/tag/trending/)
- [work-from-home](https://gp1.com/tag/work-from-home/)
- [claims](https://gp1.com/tag/claims/)
- [wash your hands](https://gp1.com/tag/wash-your-hands/)
- [working from home](https://gp1.com/tag/working-from-home/)
- [working remote](https://gp1.com/tag/working-remote/)
- [six-foot rule](https://gp1.com/tag/six-foot-rule/)
- [Families First Coronavirus Response Act](https://gp1.com/tag/families-first-coronavirus-response-act/)
- [Family and Medical Leave Act](https://gp1.com/tag/family-and-medical-leave-act/)
- [FCCRA](https://gp1.com/tag/fccra/)
- [FMLA](https://gp1.com/tag/fmla/)
- [U.S. Department of Labor](https://gp1.com/tag/u-s-department-of-labor/)
- [cigarettes](https://gp1.com/tag/cigarettes/)
- [smoking habits](https://gp1.com/tag/smoking-habits/)
- [U.S. Department of Transportation](https://gp1.com/tag/u-s-department-of-transportation/)
- [Stay In Place](https://gp1.com/tag/stay-in-place/)
- [women's rights](https://gp1.com/tag/womens-rights/)
- [essential workers](https://gp1.com/tag/essential-workers/)
- [face masks](https://gp1.com/tag/face-masks/)
- [Lockdown](https://gp1.com/tag/lockdown/)
- [Showdown](https://gp1.com/tag/showdown/)
- [Salsa King](https://gp1.com/tag/salsa-king/)
- [health risk](https://gp1.com/tag/health-risk/)
- [precautions](https://gp1.com/tag/precautions/)
- [reopening businesses](https://gp1.com/tag/reopening-businesses/)
- [COVID-19-Impacted Small Business Opportunity Zone Act](https://gp1.com/tag/covid-19-impacted-small-business-opportunity-zone-act/)
- [SBOZA](https://gp1.com/tag/sboza/)
- [WebVerify](https://gp1.com/tag/webverify/)
- [re-entry](https://gp1.com/tag/re-entry/)
- [return to work](https://gp1.com/tag/return-to-work/)
- [Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification](https://gp1.com/tag/worker-adjustment-and-retraining-notification/)
- [educational program](https://gp1.com/tag/educational-program/)
- [furlough](https://gp1.com/tag/furlough/)
- [healthy lifestyle](https://gp1.com/tag/healthy-lifestyle/)
- [physical wellness](https://gp1.com/tag/physical-wellness/)
- [second wave](https://gp1.com/tag/second-wave/)
- [virus](https://gp1.com/tag/virus/)
- [World Health Organization](https://gp1.com/tag/world-health-organization/)
- [economic](https://gp1.com/tag/economic/)
- [Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program](https://gp1.com/tag/supplemental-nutrition-assistance-program/)
- [USDA](https://gp1.com/tag/usda/)
- [return t work](https://gp1.com/tag/return-t-work/)
- [risk management](https://gp1.com/tag/risk-management/)
- [work culture](https://gp1.com/tag/work-culture/)
- [hospitals](https://gp1.com/tag/hospitals/)
- [requirments](https://gp1.com/tag/requirments/)
- [lenders](https://gp1.com/tag/lenders/)
- [CDC](https://gp1.com/tag/cdc/)
- [Centers for Disease Control and Prevention](https://gp1.com/tag/centers-for-disease-control-and-prevention/)
- [new cases](https://gp1.com/tag/new-cases/)
- [protest](https://gp1.com/tag/protest/)
- [shut down](https://gp1.com/tag/shut-down/)
- [quarantine](https://gp1.com/tag/quarantine/)
- [WHO](https://gp1.com/tag/who/)
- [schools](https://gp1.com/tag/schools/)
- [employment](https://gp1.com/tag/employment/)
- [job shortage](https://gp1.com/tag/job-shortage/)
- [job openings](https://gp1.com/tag/job-openings/)
- [due diligence](https://gp1.com/tag/due-diligence/)
- [FFCRA](https://gp1.com/tag/ffcra/)
- [NBC News](https://gp1.com/tag/nbc-news/)
- [#NTXDoesItRight](https://gp1.com/tag/ntxdoesitright/)
- [car accidents](https://gp1.com/tag/car-accidents/)
- [employee](https://gp1.com/tag/employee/)
- [law](https://gp1.com/tag/law/)
- [misconduct](https://gp1.com/tag/misconduct/)
- [plaintiff](https://gp1.com/tag/plaintiff/)
- [black lives matter](https://gp1.com/tag/black-lives-matter/)
- [National Labor Relations Act](https://gp1.com/tag/national-labor-relations-act/)
- [allergies](https://gp1.com/tag/allergies/)
- [Cybersecurity Infrastructure Security Agency](https://gp1.com/tag/cybersecurity-infrastructure-security-agency/)
- [Vishing](https://gp1.com/tag/vishing/)
- [VPN](https://gp1.com/tag/vpn/)
- [Labor Day](https://gp1.com/tag/labor-day/)
- [small gatherings](https://gp1.com/tag/small-gatherings/)
- [surge in cases](https://gp1.com/tag/surge-in-cases/)
- [networking virtually](https://gp1.com/tag/networking-virtually/)
- [communication](https://gp1.com/tag/communication/)
- [Post COVID](https://gp1.com/tag/post-covid/)
- [team building](https://gp1.com/tag/team-building/)
- [barriers](https://gp1.com/tag/barriers/)
- [recruiting](https://gp1.com/tag/recruiting/)
- [background](https://gp1.com/tag/background/)
- [brokers](https://gp1.com/tag/brokers/)
- [leasing](https://gp1.com/tag/leasing/)
- [virtual](https://gp1.com/tag/virtual/)
- [landlords](https://gp1.com/tag/landlords/)
- [equity](https://gp1.com/tag/equity/)
- [IDEA plan](https://gp1.com/tag/idea-plan/)
- [CDL Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse](https://gp1.com/tag/cdl-drug-alcohol-clearinghouse/)
- [Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS)](https://gp1.com/tag/department-of-health-and-human-services-hhs/)
- [Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)](https://gp1.com/tag/substance-abuse-and-mental-health-services-administration-samhsa/)
- [U.S. Health Department](https://gp1.com/tag/u-s-health-department/)
- [company procedures](https://gp1.com/tag/company-procedures/)
- [handbook](https://gp1.com/tag/handbook/)
- [involuntary termination](https://gp1.com/tag/involuntary-termination/)
- [Power](https://gp1.com/tag/power/)
- [Privilege](https://gp1.com/tag/privilege/)
- [Supremacy](https://gp1.com/tag/supremacy/)
- [DEA](https://gp1.com/tag/dea/)
- [Fair Labor Standards Act](https://gp1.com/tag/fair-labor-standards-act/)
- [employee hours](https://gp1.com/tag/employee-hours/)
- [timekeeping](https://gp1.com/tag/timekeeping/)
- [U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention](https://gp1.com/tag/u-s-centers-for-disease-control-and-prevention/)
- [us centers](https://gp1.com/tag/us-centers/)
- [dispensaries](https://gp1.com/tag/dispensaries/)
- [legalized marijuana](https://gp1.com/tag/legalized-marijuana/)
- [airborne viruses](https://gp1.com/tag/airborne-viruses/)
- [flu shot](https://gp1.com/tag/flu-shot/)
- [vaccines](https://gp1.com/tag/vaccines/)
- [1970 Controlled Substances Act](https://gp1.com/tag/1970-controlled-substances-act/)
- [6 feet apart](https://gp1.com/tag/6-feet-apart/)
- [active listening](https://gp1.com/tag/active-listening/)
- [body language](https://gp1.com/tag/body-language/)
- [connecting](https://gp1.com/tag/connecting/)
- [eye contact](https://gp1.com/tag/eye-contact/)
- [gestures](https://gp1.com/tag/gestures/)
- [Halloween](https://gp1.com/tag/halloween/)
- [Trick or Treat](https://gp1.com/tag/trick-or-treat/)
- [Association of American Medical Colleges](https://gp1.com/tag/association-of-american-medical-colleges/)
- [restrictions](https://gp1.com/tag/restrictions/)
- [FCRA](https://gp1.com/tag/fcra/)
- [#yourvotematters](https://gp1.com/tag/yourvotematters/)
- [election](https://gp1.com/tag/election/)
- [vote](https://gp1.com/tag/vote/)
- [data](https://gp1.com/tag/data/)
- [viewpoint](https://gp1.com/tag/viewpoint/)
- [termination](https://gp1.com/tag/termination/)
- [property managers](https://gp1.com/tag/property-managers/)
- [Digitalization](https://gp1.com/tag/digitalization/)
- [learning](https://gp1.com/tag/learning/)
- [isolation](https://gp1.com/tag/isolation/)
- [Thanksgiving](https://gp1.com/tag/thanksgiving/)
- [travel not advised](https://gp1.com/tag/travel-not-advised/)
- [fraud](https://gp1.com/tag/fraud/)
- [Opportunity](https://gp1.com/tag/opportunity/)
- [Rationalisation](https://gp1.com/tag/rationalisation/)
- [challenge](https://gp1.com/tag/challenge/)
- [Demotivation](https://gp1.com/tag/demotivation/)
- [Humility](https://gp1.com/tag/humility/)
- [shopping](https://gp1.com/tag/shopping/)
- [core vaules](https://gp1.com/tag/core-vaules/)
- [minimum wage](https://gp1.com/tag/minimum-wage/)
- [President Biden](https://gp1.com/tag/president-biden/)
- [walt disney](https://gp1.com/tag/walt-disney/)
- [walmart](https://gp1.com/tag/walmart/)
- [business](https://gp1.com/tag/business/)
- [Continue Learning](https://gp1.com/tag/continue-learning/)
- [foundation](https://gp1.com/tag/foundation/)
- [long term business goals](https://gp1.com/tag/long-term-business-goals/)
- [Artificial Intelligence](https://gp1.com/tag/artificial-intelligence/)
- [Continuous Monitoring](https://gp1.com/tag/continuous-monitoring/)
- [New Year](https://gp1.com/tag/new-year/)
- [adoption](https://gp1.com/tag/adoption/)
- [animal shelter](https://gp1.com/tag/animal-shelter/)
- [Humane Rescue Alliance](https://gp1.com/tag/humane-rescue-alliance/)
- [zoom meeting](https://gp1.com/tag/zoom-meeting/)
- [United States Department of Labor](https://gp1.com/tag/united-states-department-of-labor/)
- [moving forward](https://gp1.com/tag/moving-forward/)
- [First Amendment](https://gp1.com/tag/first-amendment/)
- [Political Discussion in the Workplace](https://gp1.com/tag/political-discussion-in-the-workplace/)
- [award](https://gp1.com/tag/award/)
- [injury](https://gp1.com/tag/injury/)
- [Oregon Health Authority](https://gp1.com/tag/oregon-health-authority/)
- [managers](https://gp1.com/tag/managers/)
- [thrive](https://gp1.com/tag/thrive/)
- [performance](https://gp1.com/tag/performance/)
- [inclement weather](https://gp1.com/tag/inclement-weather/)
- [Credit Report](https://gp1.com/tag/credit-report/)
- [credit score](https://gp1.com/tag/credit-score/)
- [debt](https://gp1.com/tag/debt/)
- [payment history](https://gp1.com/tag/payment-history/)
- [team engagement](https://gp1.com/tag/team-engagement/)
- [value](https://gp1.com/tag/value/)
- [PBSA](https://gp1.com/tag/pbsa/)
- [Professional Background Screening Association](https://gp1.com/tag/professional-background-screening-association/)
- [Governor Abbott](https://gp1.com/tag/governor-abbott/)
- [kaiser family foundation](https://gp1.com/tag/kaiser-family-foundation/)
- [paid sick leave](https://gp1.com/tag/paid-sick-leave/)
- [onboarding](https://gp1.com/tag/onboarding/)
- [Facebook](https://gp1.com/tag/facebook/)
- [LinkedIn](https://gp1.com/tag/linkedin/)
- [Kelly Services](https://gp1.com/tag/kelly-services/)
- [National Black Chamber of Commerce](https://gp1.com/tag/national-black-chamber-of-commerce/)
- [National Skills Coalition](https://gp1.com/tag/national-skills-coalition/)
- [age discrimination](https://gp1.com/tag/age-discrimination/)
- [hara](https://gp1.com/tag/hara/)
- [80% Rule](https://gp1.com/tag/80-rule/)
- [abortion](https://gp1.com/tag/abortion/)
- [Airbnb](https://gp1.com/tag/airbnb/)
- [burnout](https://gp1.com/tag/burnout/)
- [Copyright Act](https://gp1.com/tag/copyright-act/)
- [copyright laws](https://gp1.com/tag/copyright-laws/)
- [current events](https://gp1.com/tag/current-events/)
- [data minimization](https://gp1.com/tag/data-minimization/)
- [Date of Birth](https://gp1.com/tag/date-of-birth/)
- [depression](https://gp1.com/tag/depression/)
- [emergency training](https://gp1.com/tag/emergency-training/)
- [exclusion screening](https://gp1.com/tag/exclusion-screening/)
- [executive summary](https://gp1.com/tag/executive-summary/)
- [food service](https://gp1.com/tag/food-service/)
- [Forbes](https://gp1.com/tag/forbes/)
- [Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act](https://gp1.com/tag/genetic-information-nondiscrimination-act/)
- [Google](https://gp1.com/tag/google/)
- [Governor DeSantis](https://gp1.com/tag/governor-desantis/)
- [Great Resignation](https://gp1.com/tag/great-resignation/)
- [hair discrimination](https://gp1.com/tag/hair-discrimination/)
- [HIPAA](https://gp1.com/tag/hipaa/)
- [HR Research Institute (HRRI)](https://gp1.com/tag/hr-research-institute-hrri/)
- [Human Rights Law](https://gp1.com/tag/human-rights-law/)
- [Hurricane Ian](https://gp1.com/tag/hurricane-ian/)
- [hybrid working](https://gp1.com/tag/hybrid-working/)
- [Instagram](https://gp1.com/tag/instagram/)
- [layoffs](https://gp1.com/tag/layoffs/)
- [medical history](https://gp1.com/tag/medical-history/)
- [metaverse](https://gp1.com/tag/metaverse/)
- [Microsoft](https://gp1.com/tag/microsoft/)
- [Monkeypox](https://gp1.com/tag/monkeypox/)
- [national safety council](https://gp1.com/tag/national-safety-council/)
- [Netflix](https://gp1.com/tag/netflix/)
- [paid parental leave](https://gp1.com/tag/paid-parental-leave/)
- [permanent employees](https://gp1.com/tag/permanent-employees/)
- [podcast](https://gp1.com/tag/podcast/)
- [pregnancy](https://gp1.com/tag/pregnancy/)
- [Pregnancy Discrimination Act](https://gp1.com/tag/pregnancy-discrimination-act/)
- [Quiet Quitting](https://gp1.com/tag/quiet-quitting/)
- [reductions in force](https://gp1.com/tag/reductions-in-force/)
- [Rehabilitation Act](https://gp1.com/tag/rehabilitation-act/)
- [society for human resource management](https://gp1.com/tag/society-for-human-resource-management/)
- [sponsor](https://gp1.com/tag/sponsor/)
- [Stop Woke Act](https://gp1.com/tag/stop-woke-act/)
- [summer heat](https://gp1.com/tag/summer-heat/)
- [tiktok](https://gp1.com/tag/tiktok/)
- [Title VII](https://gp1.com/tag/title-vii/)
- [training](https://gp1.com/tag/training/)
- [twitter](https://gp1.com/tag/twitter/)
- [u.s. food and drug administration](https://gp1.com/tag/u-s-food-and-drug-administration/)
- [verification INDUSTRIES WE SERVE Healthcare Staffing Higher Education Logistics & Transportation Technology](https://gp1.com/tag/verification-industries-we-serve-healthcare-staffing-higher-education-logistics-transportation-technology/)
- [veterans](https://gp1.com/tag/veterans/)
- [Work Trend Index](https://gp1.com/tag/work-trend-index/)
- [working mothers](https://gp1.com/tag/working-mothers/)
- [written report](https://gp1.com/tag/written-report/)
- [labor law](https://gp1.com/tag/labor-law/)
- [Loud Quitting](https://gp1.com/tag/loud-quitting/)
- [Fentanyl](https://gp1.com/tag/fentanyl/)
- [Deepfake](https://gp1.com/tag/deepfake/)
- [U.S. Department of Homeland Security](https://gp1.com/tag/u-s-department-of-homeland-security/)
- [animal cruelty](https://gp1.com/tag/animal-cruelty/)
- [Humane Society of the U.S.](https://gp1.com/tag/humane-society-of-the-u-s/)
- [Electronic Records](https://gp1.com/tag/electronic-records/)
- [Board of Trustees](https://gp1.com/tag/board-of-trustees/)
- [Annual Awards Luncheon](https://gp1.com/tag/annual-awards-luncheon/)
- [John Gavras](https://gp1.com/tag/john-gavras/)
- [north texas healthcare](https://gp1.com/tag/north-texas-healthcare/)
- [North Texas hospitals](https://gp1.com/tag/north-texas-hospitals/)
- [American Heart Association](https://gp1.com/tag/american-heart-association/)
- [Irving](https://gp1.com/tag/irving/)
- [Heart Walk](https://gp1.com/tag/heart-walk/)
- [Irving-Las Colinas Chamber of Commerce](https://gp1.com/tag/irving-las-colinas-chamber-of-commerce/)
- [Preventive Care](https://gp1.com/tag/preventive-care/)
- [WARN Act](https://gp1.com/tag/warn-act/)
- [Joint Commission](https://gp1.com/tag/joint-commission/)
- [Hospitals Against Violence](https://gp1.com/tag/hospitals-against-violence/)
- [Peace Over Violence](https://gp1.com/tag/peace-over-violence/)
- [corporate move](https://gp1.com/tag/corporate-move/)
- [office space](https://gp1.com/tag/office-space/)
- [Las Colinas](https://gp1.com/tag/las-colinas/)