San Bernardino County – San Bernardino County’s Workforce Development Board along with the California Employers Association have been helping County businesses handle human resources issues at no cost through an HR Hotline. The service, which handles hundreds of calls, has been vital to many County small businesses helping guide them through complex HR issues and regulations.

The topics handled on the Hotline include: hiring, wage and hour claims, leave laws, employee relations, harassment, termination and benefits among many others. Low Cost Interlock, a Redlands-based company specializing in alcohol ignition interlock devices is indicative of the County based businesses that have used the free service.

“I have probably called more than 10 times with multiple issues and always get immediate help.  They are professional, knowledgeable and always willing to help.” said Michelle Gonzales of Low Cost Interlock, a Redlands-based company specializing in alcohol ignition interlock devices. The firm has approximately 50 employees. Gonzales handles the day-to-day HR issues for the firm.

Jon Novack, president, Patton Sales Corporation and Chair, Economic Development and Business Resources Committee for the San Bernardino County Workforce Development Board added that he also uses the Hotline, almost weekly for his company, which provides metal working solutions.

“The Hotline provides immediate access to great professionals. It’s imperative for all businesses to know how to implement new laws and regulations to both protect their businesses and its employees,” Novack said. “This service really benefits firms from 5 to 50 employees and that is the heart and soul of the County business community.”

He adds that the information received through the Hotline can save significant costs as the HR professionals are able to provide effective guidance on so many employee situations and the subsequent labor laws. The HR Hotline is available Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at 1-877-282-3763.

About the San Bernardino County Workforce Development Board

The San Bernardino County Workforce Development Board (WDB) is comprised of private business representatives and public partners appointed by the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors.  The WDB strives to strengthen the skills of the County’s workforce through partnerships with business, education and community-based organizations. The San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors is committed to providing county resources, which generate jobs and investment in line with the Countywide Vision.

The Workforce Development Board, through the San Bernardino County Economic Development Agency and Workforce Development Department, offers a variety of programs designed to help youth and adults identify career pathways and get the appropriate training and skills. Programs funded through the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) provide eligible youth, ages 16 to 24, access to a variety of career and educational services designed to help enhance job skills, develop leadership qualities, explore career options, participate in adult and peer mentoring opportunities, and take advantage of work experiences. In addition, the WDB operates San Bernardino County’s three America’s Job Centers of California (AJCC). The AJCCs provide individuals with job training, placement and the tools to strengthen their skills to achieve a higher quality of life. The AJCCs also support and provide services to the County’s businesses, including employee recruitment and business retention programs.

Employers and job seekers who are interested in the Workforce Development Board programs may call: (800) 451-JOBS or visit www.sbcounty.gov/workforce.