Bad weather day, not paid

AnnGee

Monday we were recovering from a small ice storm, and six out of eighteen were unable to show up due to the weather. Since our Christmas party was Monday at noon, everyone present was off the clock at noon. The owner said today, that he wanted to pay every employee present on Monday a full 8 hour day. He is not going to pay for those unable to make it due to weather. Even those that were up to 1.5 hours late get an 8 hour day. Other than giving six employees another reason to complain, has he broken an laws? Thanks for you help.

Catbert Evil HR Director

I don't think you have broken any laws. I assume they are hourly employees and there is no inclement weather policy? I just drafted one for our company in the aftermath of a weather storm here. You may want to look at whether any travel restrictions were placed on those that did not show - ie. level 3 snow alert in Ohio prohibits people from travelling at all or risk being arrested.

Crout

The short answer is no.

Parabeagle

Nope. Nothing wrong with rewarding employees who were able to get in. If the employees who didn't show up wish to take paid time off or vacation (whichever is available), you need to look at your inclement weather policy, if you have one. For example, ours states that an employee who cannot come in due to weather is permitted to take paid time off or vacation to make up for the loss of hours.

Dutch2

If you didn't close your office and some ee's were unable to make it to work due to the weather... Absenses for inclement weather are considered absences for personal reasons under the FLSA.
Take the advice of the earlier post and if you don't have a policy regarding inclement weather you should work one up for future events.
Good luck...

AnnGee

Thanks to all who replied. Guess this is a new lesson learned to get to work no matter how the weather is. thanks.