Federal employers and employees in New Mexico should be aware that the Office of Special Counsel has issued three new memos regarding whistleblower policies and guidance. The memos were released on Feb. 1.
OSC issues memos on whistleblower protections
Rettaliation included in nearly half of all EEOC claims
New Mexico residents filed fewer civil rights complaints against their employers last year according to the federal agency in charge of regulating anti-discrimination laws in the workplace. New Mexico is not an outlier as the number of claims nationwide also declined, which has been the trend since 2010. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) recently released its report of claims enforcement data for fiscal year 2017, which ended in September.
Most drivers use cellphones while behind the wheel
Motor vehicle accidents caused by distracted drivers have become worryingly commonplace in New Mexico and around the country. While many issues are to blame, some road safety advocates are pointing fingers at smartphones and sophisticated navigation systems. Vehicles traveling at highway speeds cover a distance as long as a football field in just 5 seconds, and a recent Consumer Reports survey suggests that an alarming number of drivers routinely take their eyes off the roads for far longer.
Car insurers may begin using smartphone data
New Mexico drivers who use their smartphones while behind the wheel may end up paying more in insurance than those who do not, but the technology must still be approved by state regulatory agencies. Motorists will also have to allow insurance companies permission to use the data.
