The US government could save between $3.3 billion and $41.1 billion by automating simple tasks such as opening emails, collecting social media statistics and performing repetitive calculations, a Deloitte study finds.

Despite reports that retail is fading, fast-food workers are seeing tangible benefits from swapping industries, including bonuses and paid time off. Some fast-food chains are changing uniform policies, increasing wages or offering cash incentives for good work to retain workers.

The Senate has voted 50-49 to eliminate a safe harbor for states that back retirement-savings plans for workers without access to employer-sponsored plans. The resolution was largely backed by Republicans and opposed by Democrats.

Employee volunteer programs benefit communities, empower workers and boost retention, says Jenny Lawson of nonprofit Points of Light. This article outlines four keys to engaging employees in volunteerism and tips for implementing a pro bono program.

The online platform Completed allows people to create permanent business profiles of people, including ratings. The platform pulls publicly available data and allows people to offer their own ratings, but only "constructive criticism that provides constructive feedback for people to improve in business," according to the website.

HR faces unique challenges in the recreational marijuana industry, including extensive background checks for job applicants, complicated payroll issues and compliance with state and federal laws. "You can't take a blueprint from the retail industry and graft it onto the cannabis industry," said Keegan Peterson, CEO of HR software provider Wurk.