As the season for workplace holiday parties comes into full swing, we offer the following information from the U.S. Department of Labor.

During the holiday season, employers and workers frequently get together to unwind and celebrate.  Typically, workplace parties involve plenty of food and drinks.  If the drinks include alcohol, however, there is potential for unfortunate consequences.

Whether alcohol is permitted at workplace parties or other company-sponsored events is an individual decision for each company to make.  If alcohol is present, it is advisable to take precautions to help prevent workers or guests from becoming intoxicated and to discourage impaired driving.  A memo from a responsible official on the subject which reminds employees that they are not to drive while impaired is recommended.
 
Opinions vary regarding the appropriateness of making alcoholic beverages available at workplace parties or other company-sponsored events.  Ignoring the possibility that some employees or guests may drive home "under the influence" invites trouble.  While the holidays serve to remind us about the dangers of impaired driving, employers have a vested interest in keeping employees safe at all times.  After all, accidents and injuries to employees, whether on or off the job, impact businesses through increased absenteeism and the use of health benefits.  Also, improper use of alcohol may expose employers to liability under tort, workers' compensation or other laws. For example, an employer may be held liable if a person consumes alcoholic beverages at a company-sponsored party and subsequently causes a crash.  So encouraging safety before, after and especially, during work makes good business sense.

 
2009 IRS Mileage Rate

 

On January 1, 2009, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) standard mileage deduction for business use of a motor vehicle will go down to 55 cents per mile.  Recall that on July 1, 2008 the deduction was increased to 58.5 cents per mile for the remainder of 2008.