News & Insights

Employee performance management is not just about managing when problems arise, as discussed last month. Performance management also includes managing opportunities to retain employees. Employers should explore a collection of approaches to maintain a good work environment and to keep employees engaged and motivated.

Winter is coming and unfortunately so are the weather related concerns that affect transportation. Snow and ice on the roof of moving vehicles is a safety hazard that can lead to injuries, citations, and fines. Contractors should be aware of Pennsylvania laws requiring the removal of snow and ice from the roof of moving vehicles. “Christine’s Law” was enacted in 2022 as a result of Christine Lambert’s death from dislodged ice that fell like a projectile from a moving vehicle in 2005. Pursuan...

It is no question that many employers are facing an aging workforce. In fact, according to a recent survey by the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of workers aged 65 or older has increased by 117% within the last 20 years. As many employers know, the pandemic was a catalyst that accelerated employee retirement over the last few years – requiring many employers to scramble for qualified applicants to replace retired employees. Libraries should be mindful of the Age Discrimina...

Everyone knows that immigration has been a top priority for the Trump Administration. Recent developments out of Washington D.C. signify a tightening of federal oversight of commercial learner’s permits (CLPs) and commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs) issued to individuals domiciled outside of the United States. For employers in the transportation industry, a new interim final rule proposed by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (“FMCSA”) will have an effect on employees holding a ...

With the school year now settling into normal routines, inevitably some contractors and bus drivers will face behavioral challenges with students. Sometimes, disciplinary action needs to be taken to stop inappropriate behavior. For contractors who transport students with an Individual Education Plan (“IEP”), there can be additional considerations before certain types of discipline can occur.

Because good drivers are hard to find, every driver is worth the effort of performance management when problems arise. Employers should be sure to start at the beginning. Clear and up to date job descriptions, including essential functions and requirements, are critical to set defensible expectations. A job description which specifically notes bending and lifting requirements is your best support in defensible hiring decisions for those expected to lift, assist, or secure students on your buses....

As a school bus contractor, you’ve built a business that helps the community while supporting your family. But what is your long term future plan? Business owners are not surprised to hear that the income and value generated by a privately held business represents about 80% of the business owner’s wealth. But many business owners focus on generating business income while ignoring business value. Your business is an income generating asset, just like the vehicles in your fleet. Contractors are ...