On May 15, 2025, the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas ruled that the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) exceeded its authority back in April 2024 when the agency issued updated Enforcement Guidance on Harassment in the Workplace that expanded the...
In the staffing industry, few things are as dreaded as a skyrocketing experience modification rate—or mod rate. For temporary staffing agencies, where risk can be difficult to control, a high mod rate doesn't just increase your workers' compensation premiums, it can scare off clients and...
As the workforce ages, employers must adapt to ensure the safety and productivity of their older employees. Many baby boomers are delaying retirement or reentering the workforce, so the number of employees aged 55 and older is rising. While these workers bring valuable experience and...
Employment practices liability (EPL) claims—such as alleged discrimination, harassment, or wrongful termination—can be complex and costly, leaving employers impacted with financial and reputational fallout. Taking steps to reduce EPL exposures and promote a positive workplace culture can help prevent such claims and related lawsuits. Here are...
The Three Cs for Safety: Compliance, Competence, and Commitment: A Comprehensive Approach The Paramount + series, Landman, is a fictional portrayal of the drama that enfolds when there’s an explosion at a Texas oil rig killing four workers. While Landman is a fictional show with plenty...
[video width="1920" height="1080" mp4="https://www.barrowgroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Why-Cyber-Insurance-Matters-for-Small-Businesses.mp4"][/video] Due to the volume and sensitivity of data staffing agencies handle, the risk of a cyberattack is high. From personally identifiable information (PII) to employee's health data, a breach can compromise a client companies' data and thousands of temporary employees' information. Cyber insurance...
Washington Enacts Mini-WARN Act On May 13, 2025, Washington enacted the Securing Timely Notification and Benefits for Laid-Off Employees Act (Act), which requires covered employers to give 60 days’ advance notice prior to a mass layoff or business closing. The Act takes effect on July 27,...
Annual insurance reviews are a critical practice for small businesses. They can help reduce insurance costs while ensuring coverage keeps pace with the company’s evolving needs. Skipping this review can result in coverage gaps, leaving new business services, equipment or locations underinsured—or worse, completely uninsured....
Tariffs—taxes imposed on imported goods—may be introduced for several reasons, namely to protect domestic industries, correct trade imbalances and advance foreign policy goals. As such, tariffs imposed by the United States can fluctuate based on the latest geopolitical developments. While tariffs are intended to protect...
Small businesses often face an uphill battle when it comes to retaining employees. Limited budgets, lean teams and fewer advancement opportunities can make it difficult to compete with larger companies. However, better engagement is one of the most cost-effective and impactful ways to improve employee...