The US elections are poised to influence several HR issues, including tax policies, overtime pay rules, minimum wage increases and individual coverage health reimbursement accounts. The expiration of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act provisions could lead to debates over taxing employer-sponsored health care premiums.

Seventy percent of employees want companies to rethink the 40-hour work week, with 89% favoring flexible schedules and shorter work weeks, according to FlexJobs' 2024 Workforce Wellness Report. The analysis highlights the prevalence of overwork, with 58% of respondents feeling pressured to stay on the job past their regular hours and 80% enduring toxic employment environments.

A study by University of Basel and University of Leicester researchers indicates that exercise intensity is more important than duration in reducing mortality risk. Analyzing data from 7,518 US adults, researchers found that higher-intensity exercise significantly lowers the risk of early death, particularly from cardiovascular disease. The study suggests that even small increases in intensity, such as brisk walking, can have substantial health benefits.

HR leaders are advised to focus on differentiating compensation packages through benefits like caregiving assistance and mental health support, as competitive pay alone is now considered basic. Policies for remote and hybrid work are highly valued, with many employees willing to receive less salary if they can work from home.

To conduct compassionate layoffs, it's crucial to approach the process with empathy and support, including organizing one-on-one conversations, offering job search assistance and allowing employees to express their emotions, writes Indiana Lee. "By remaining calm and comforting, you should see your employees reach some sort of closure," Lee notes.