For example, the National Labor Relations Act protects an employee's right to organize and regulates collective bargaining between employers and unions. The Occupational Safety and Health Act sets safety requirements in the workplace. The Family Medical Leave Act grants leave to employees when they or their family members become seriously ill. And state and federal laws establish minimum wage and overtime pay for employees. Other federal labor and employment laws have state versions to deal with, too.
Laws stretch from hiring to separation and everything in between.
During interviews, for example, an employer cannot ask certain questions. There are also restrictions on running background and credit checks, pre-employment physicals and drug and alcohol screenings, compensation and benefits, etc. Employers need to respond carefully to complaints of discrimination and harassment by employees. Touchy areas can include drug and alcohol screenings, sending employees for physical exams, transfers, promotions, demotions, discipline, workplace injuries, employee leave, evaluating performance and others. Getting rid of an employee entails risk too.