Massachusetts Job Sharing Policy

• Category: Employment - Policies and Procedures
• State: Multi-State
• Control #: US-185EM
• Format: Word; Rich Text

Description

This policy provides information to employees concerning job sharing arrangements.

Massachusetts Job Sharing Policy refers to the state's regulations and guidelines that govern the implementation and operation of job sharing arrangements in the workplace. Job sharing, also known as shared work, is a flexible work arrangement where two or more employees voluntarily share the responsibilities of a single full-time position, enabling them to work reduced hours while preserving their employment status and benefits. Massachusetts recognizes the importance of job sharing as a means to maintain workforce stability, promote work-life balance, and minimize layoffs during periods of economic downturn or business slowdown. The Massachusetts Division of Unemployment Assistance (DUE), an agency under the Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development, administers and oversees the Job Sharing Program in the state. Under the Massachusetts Job Sharing Policy, eligible employers can voluntarily apply for participation in the Job Sharing Program to help avoid layoffs by reducing employee hours across the organization. By doing so, employers can retain valuable skilled employees during times when work volume or revenue decreases temporarily, rather than having to lay off a portion of their workforce. There are two types of Massachusetts Job Sharing Programs available: the Traditional Program and the Alternative Workweek Program. 1. Traditional Job Sharing Program: — This program allows employers to reduce the workweek hours of a group of employees by a minimum of 10% and a maximum of 60%. — Participating employees have their reduced wages supplemented with partial unemployment benefits received from the DUE. — The program requires employers to provide comparable fringe benefits, such as health insurance, to job sharing participants on a pro rata basis. 2. Alternative Workweek Program: — This program enables employers to establish an alternative work schedule for a group of employees, such as a compressed workweek or flexible work hours. — Participating employees maintain their regular wages and do not receive any unemployment benefits. — The program allows for greater schedule flexibility, improving work-life balance for participants. To be eligible for the Job Sharing Program in Massachusetts, employers must meet specific requirements, including having paid unemployment insurance taxes for a minimum of two years and maintaining a positive account balance. Additionally, employers must submit an application to Do outlining their proposed job sharing arrangement, including details about the participating employees and the expected duration of the program. Overall, the Massachusetts Job Sharing Policy provides a valuable tool for employers to manage their workforce during challenging times, maintain valuable employees, and foster a healthy work-life balance. By offering both the Traditional and Alternative Workweek Programs, the state aims to accommodate the diverse needs of employers and employees, ensuring a flexible and supportive work environment.