Look, here’s what employers in Florida can’t do. The state has rules, and breaking them gets you in trouble – simple as that.
You can’t fire someone because they’re old (meaning 40+), or because of their race, religion, or origin. That’s straight-up illegal under both Florida and federal law. The same goes for giving someone grief about their disability or genetic information. The Civil Rights Act and ADA make sure of that.
Want to harass your workers? Don’t even think about it. Creating a hostile workplace or pulling that “sleep with me or you’re fired” nonsense will land you in hot water fast.
Whereas employees are protected from retaliation, under applicable statutes and regulations, any employer who punishes workers for reporting problems violates state and federal law. This includes but is not limited to, firing, demoting, or otherwise making life difficult for employees who speak up.
Money matters: Pay your people right. Florida’s minimum wage trumps the federal one – use it. And yes, you have to pay overtime after 40 hours. No tricks.
Furthermore, while Florida embraces at-will employment, this doctrine shall not be construed as permission to terminate employment for discriminatory or retaliatory purposes.
Keep your workplace safe, or OSHA will come knocking. And don’t get cute with disability accommodations—if someone needs a reasonable adjustment to do their job, you make it happen. The same goes for religious beliefs unless they would hurt your business.
Here’s another thing: Don’t try passing off regular employees as independent contractors. The IRS sees right through that, and they’re not fans.
And unions? Workers can join them, period. Trying to stop them will get you in legal trouble.
Violations of the aforementioned provisions may result in substantial penalties, fines, and/or civil litigation. Affected parties retain the right to file complaints with relevant regulatory bodies, including but not limited to the EEOC and Florida Commission on Human Relations.
