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One to Keep An Eye On: HB 6536 (Connecticut)

 

As with many labor & employment law related cases (and bills) being litigated around the country, there are always a few that stand out.  This is one to keep an eye on.


Earlier this year, HB 6536 was introduced in the Connecticut General Assembly which would require employers to reimburse employees for all “necessary” expenditures incurred while working from home.

Many readers are likely wondering what qualifies as a “necessary” expenditure.  HB 6536 sets out several items, but clarifies the list is not exhaustive.  HB 6536 states that “Necessary expenditures” means all expenditures required of the employee by the employer, in the discharge of employment duties that inure to the primary benefit of the employer, including, but not limited to, the cost of purchasing:  (A) Equipment and technology, including, but not limited to, items such as computers, printers and cellular phones; (B) services, including, but not limited to, services such as internet provider services, mobile internet access services and cellular telephone services; and (C) employment related supplies such as paper and printer ink and toner.”

Now there are a few important caveats here.  For starters, an employer would not be required to fully reimburse an employee for necessary expenditures that are services the employee concurrently receives for his/her own personal use...provided that the employer shall still reimburse the employee not less than 50% of the cost for these services.  As well, employees are required to provide appropriate supporting documentation no later than 30 calendar days after incurring the expense.  If no supporting documentation exists, the employee would be required to submit a signed statement in regard to the expenses.  Whether supporting documentation or a signed statement is submitted, an employer would be required to reimburse the employee within 30 calendar days after receiving the documentation or signed statement.


For additional information:  https://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&bill_num=HB06536&which_year=2021

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