Free Courses on Employment Law for Employers

Upcoming Classes in Augusta, Bangor, Lewiston, Portland, Presque Isle, Rockland, Skowhegan, Springvale and Wilton.

The Maine Department of Labor will offer sessions of its popular, no-charge course that educates employers and the public about regulations governing the workplace. The "Laws Governing Workplace Rights" classes are taught by staff of the Wage and Hour Division of the Bureau of Labor Standards.

"We are pleased to be offering these popular courses at no charge to employers all over the state to make it more convenient for small business owners and HR staff to attend," said Governor Paul R. LePage. "Understanding the law prevents businesses from making costly mistakes. This course helps Maine's business managers save time, money and aggravation when complying with state regulations."

May 14 - SafetyWorks! Training Institute at the Maine Department of Labor, 45 Commerce Drive,
Augusta June 2 - Lewiston CareerCenter, 5 Mollison Way, Lewiston June 4 - Bangor CareerCenter, 45 Oak Street, Suite 4, Bangor June 9 - York County CareerCenter, 9 Bodwell Court, Springvale June 10 - Rockland Career Center, 91 Camden Street, Suite 201, Rockland June 16 - Greater Portland CareerCenter, 151 Jetport Boulevard, Portland June 18 - Presque Isle CareerCenter, 66 Spruce Street, Suite 1, Presque Isle June 24 - Wilton CareerCenter, 865 US Route 2E, Wilton June 25 - Skowhegan CareerCenter, 98 North Avenue, Suite 20, Skowhegan This course covers wage and hour laws, including minimum wage, overtime, youth employment, severance pay, equal pay, leave requirements (family medical leave and domestic violence) and break requirements. It addresses commonly asked employment-related questions and offers participants an opportunity to ask questions.

Although courses can be attended at no charge, registration is required due to limited seating.

Commissioner of Labor Jeanne Paquette said, "The department wants to help Maine employers by giving them the answers before we give them the test. This course is designed for small business owners or staff who handle human resources and payroll functions. This is about education, not investigation. Come with your questions."

Employers interested in participating can learn more and register by calling (207) 623-7900 or visiting http://www.safetyworksmaine.com and clicking "More Classes" from the homepage.

The Wage and Hour Division of the Bureau of Labor Standards is Maine's regulatory agency overseeing labor and employment law and provides both consultation and enforcement services. The division promotes and achieves compliance with labor standards to protect and enhance the welfare of Maine's workforce.

The State of Maine is an equal opportunity provider. Auxiliary aids and services are available to individuals with disabilities upon request.