Karen Kalzer

Religious Exemption Upheld

Employment, Religion

The Washington State Supreme Court issued an opinion today in Ockletree v. Franciscan Health Services affirming that exempting religious organizations from the Washington Law Against Discrimination does not violate Washington’s Constitution, which guarantees “absolute freedom” in matters of religion.


Karen Kalzer

Same Sex Marriage Issues Continue to Play on National Stage

Employment

The United States Supreme Court granted a stay to the State of Utah as to implementing the decision of a federal judge who struck down Utah’s ban on same sex marriage (Herbert v. Kitchen). The granting of the stay means that same sex marriage will remain illegal in Utah as the matter runs up the lower court appeals process.


IRS Opens Door For Some Washington Businesses to Receive ACA Credit

Employment

Employer Alert! The IRS issued guidance last week that certain small businesses in Washington can qualify for the Affordable Care Act’s small business tax credit if they provide their employees with health insurance that meets current rules, even if the employer’s principal business address is in a county not offering a qualified health plan