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Colorado Compliance Connection - August 2022 Part I

August 5, 2022

Download PDF version here.

Federal Compliance Update 

U.S. Declares Monkeypox a Public Health Emergency

On August 4, 2022, the United States declared a monkeypox a Public Health Emergency (PHE). The announcement came during a briefing with the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).

The U.S. has confirmed more than 6,600 cases of monkeypox in 48 states. The PHE declaration by HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra is intended to help mobilize more resources to fight the outbreak and strengthen and accelerate the Biden administration’s response to monkeypox.

“Ending the monkeypox outbreak is a critical priority for the Biden-Harris administration. We are taking our response to the next level by declaring a public health emergency.” - HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra

Overview of Monkeypox

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that monkeypox usually begins with symptoms including fever, headache, muscle aches, backache, chills and swollen lymph nodes. The incubation period from the time of infection to first showing symptoms is typically seven to 14 days, but this range can vary. Monkeypox can spread in a few ways. These include:

  • Direct contact with monkeypox rash, scabs, or body fluids from a person with monkeypox
  • Touching objects, fabrics (clothing, bedding or towels) and surfaces that have been used by someone with monkeypox
  • Contact with respiratory secretions

Although the virus is transmissible, the CDC provides several steps to take care of yourself to prevent getting monkeypox:

  • Avoid close skin-to-skin contact with people who have a rash that looks like monkeypox.
  • Avoid contact with objects and materials that a person with monkeypox has used.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, especially before eating or touching your face and after you use the bathroom.

What’s Next?

As the ongoing spread of monkeypox has been declared a PHE, federal officials have also expanded vaccination efforts. According to the HHS, over 600,000 doses of vaccines have been shipped to states and jurisdictions.

Public health agencies and officials continue to investigate monkeypox and learn more about its transmission and outbreak. In the meantime, individuals should continue to follow best practices for avoiding the transmission of monkeypox. For more information on monkeypox from the CDC, click here.

State Compliance Update

Check State Leave Laws

With the declaration of a Public Health Emergency (PHE), check your local and state requirements for any additional requirements such as the Healthy Families and Medical Leave Act requirements for paid leave, etc.

Compliance Calendar

August

8/1 – Form 5500 Deadline (calendar year plans)

8/1 – Form 941 Filing Deadline (second quarter)

8/1 – PCORI Fee Deadline

8/1 – VETS-4212 Filing Open (federal contractors)

September

9/30 – VETS-4212 Filing Deadline (federal contractors)

October

10/14 – Medicare Part D Creditable/Noncreditable Coverage Notice

10/30 – Form 941 Filing Deadline (third quarter)

Disclaimer:

Lighthouse HR Support (LHRS) provides practical human resource information and guidance based upon our knowledge and experience in the industry and with our clients. LHRS services are not intended to be a substitute for legal advice. LHRS services are designed to provide general information to human resources and/or business professionals regarding human resource concerns commonly encountered. Given the changing nature of federal, state and local legislation and the changing nature of court decisions, LHRS cannot and will not guarantee that the information is completely current or accurate. LHRS services do not include or constitute legal, business, international, regulatory, insurance, tax or financial advice. Use of our services, whether by phone, email or in person shall indicate your acceptance of this knowledge.

Written By:

Kelly Murphy

Kelly Murphy

Senior HR Business Partner

Kelly brings a wealth of knowledge with nearly 30 years of human resource experience. She provides expertise in various human resource categories, including employee relations, performance management, HR Form creation/review (employee handbooks, job descriptions, etc.), employee/management training, workplace investigations, etc. Her human resource certifications include PHR (Professional Human Resources) and SHRM-PC (Society for Human Resource Management Certified Professional). 

Kelly attended Colorado Mesa University and Waldorf University, where she earned a degree in Human Resource Management and Business Administration with Summa Cum Laude honors. She was named Western Colorado Human Resource Association Professional of the Year, 2013, and currently serves on the Board of Directors. She also is a member of the WCHRA Skills Development Committee, the WCCA Education Committee, and the Members/Events Committee. She serves as an Ambassador for both the Fruita and Palisade Chamber of Commerce.