Labor & Employment

Bismarck Workforce Center Business Services Newsletter

The Bismarck Workforce Center has released its Q1 2026 Business Services Quarterly Newsletter. The newsletter provides updates on events, staff, labor market information, and a review of 2025.

WIOA State Plan Modification Public Comment Period Open

Job Service North Dakota has opened a public comment period for modifications to the state's Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) State Plan. The comment period runs from February 17th to March 16th, 2026, and is a required step for states to receive federal workforce development funding.

Missouri Tax Form 1099-G for Unemployment Benefits Available Online

The Missouri Division of Employment Security announced that the 2025 Form 1099-G for unemployment benefits is now available online. This form details unemployment payments and taxes withheld, and is crucial for tax filing purposes. The state will also mail forms by January 31, 2026, for those who have not opted out of paperless delivery.

St. Louis Cold Drawn Celebrates Five Years of Workplace Safety Recognition

The Missouri Department of Labor and Industrial Relations announced that St. Louis Cold Drawn has achieved five years of participation in the OSHA Safety and Health Achievement Recognition Program (SHARP). This recognition highlights the company's exemplary safety and health management system for its employees.

Unemployment Benefits for Storm Victims

The Missouri Department of Labor announced that individuals in designated counties affected by severe storms between March 30 and April 8, 2025, can apply for Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA). Applications will be accepted until January 26, 2026.

Missouri Minimum Wage Increases to $15.00 per Hour

The Missouri minimum wage will increase to $15.00 per hour effective January 1, 2026, as mandated by HB 567. This legislation also removes the annual adjustment by the Consumer Price Index and subjects public employers to the minimum wage law.

Connecticut Labor Department Rapid Response for Layoffs

The Connecticut Labor Department's Rapid Response Team provides transition support services for businesses facing layoffs and affected workers. The unit offers early intervention, job development, training funds, and other resources to ease the impact of plant closings and downsizing.

WARN Act and Layoff Related Laws Overview

The State of Connecticut Department of Labor has published an overview of the federal WARN Act and related state laws concerning layoffs and downsizing. This guidance aims to help employers understand their obligations regarding advance notice and other requirements during workforce reductions.

Massachusetts Lowers Apprenticeship Fees and Expands Tax Credit

The Massachusetts Healey-Driscoll Administration announced a reduction in annual program fees for Registered Apprenticeship sponsors from $300 to $250. Additionally, eligibility for the Registered Apprenticeship Tax Credit has been expanded to include occupations related to AI credentials, defense manufacturing, and other manufacturing sectors.

Massachusetts Governor Sets Goal for 100,000 Apprentices by 2036

Governor Healey of Massachusetts announced a goal to register 100,000 new apprentices across various sectors by 2036. The administration has invested nearly $14 million and secured $6 million in federal funding to support apprenticeship programs, while also expanding eligibility for tax credits.