With the goal of keeping you informed and up to date, these news bites feature local, regional and national news items that relate to the business community in Central Minnesota.
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LOCAL
ATHENA Award nominations now open. The Women’s Fund ATHENA Award is a lifetime achievement award. The Award’s mission is to recognize and honor St. Cloud area women who have achieved excellence in their careers and who inspire others. Submit your nomination.
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Absentee balloting for the Minnesota presidential nomination primary (PNP) is underway. Absentee voting began on January 19, with the PNP election taking place on Tuesday, March 5, 2024. The purpose of the presidential nomination primary is for voters to choose the presidential candidate they wish their party to nominate to be on the November general election ballot. Learn more.
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DEIAB: More Than Just an Acronym - Register now for this CareerForce workshop to learn more about how you can take action on your DEIAB (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion Accessibility, and Belonging) initiatives. Register now.
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Waite Park introduces safe exchange zone. The city set aside two parking stalls at its public works building, 670 17th Avenue South, near The Ledge Amphitheater. The spot is intended for people buying and selling things online or for child custody exchanges. Learn more.Â
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STATE & NATIONAL
Final rule on employee/independent contractor classification - The U.S. Department of Labor published a final rule, effective March 11, 2024, revising the Department’s guidance on how to analyze who is an employee or independent contractor under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). Learn more
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Take the rulemaking public input survey: As part of the first phase of engagement, the Office of Cannabis Management wants your input on specific topics for rulemaking as well your help to identify other priority areas so they can further build out an engagement plan. Take the survey.
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Employer reasonable accomodation fund: The Department of Employment and Economic Development Employer Reasonable Accommodation Fund creates a central fund where small to mid-sized Minnesota employers can request reimbursement for expenses related to providing reasonable accommodations for job applicants and employees with disabilities. Learn more
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Join the Small Business Call. Hosted by MN DEED on the 2nd Tuesday of every month at 2:00 p.m., this call is an opportunity for small business owners to have a conversation with business experts and their peers. Join the February 13th call! Add to your Calendar