How does the WARN Act define the number of employees affected for notice provisions to apply?

The Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) Act is designed to protect workers by requiring employers to provide advance notice of mass layoffs and plant closures. According to the WARN Act, the number of employees affected for the notice provisions to apply is defined as at least 50 employees at a single location.

This provision aims to ensure that larger layoffs have a significant impact on the workforce within a community and gives those affected adequate time to prepare for the transition, whether it be seeking new employment or additional training. When employers meet this threshold, they are mandated to issue written notice 60 days in advance, helping to safeguard employee rights during significant organizational changes.

Understanding this definition is crucial for compliance with the WARN Act, as failing to provide the requisite notice can result in substantial penalties for employers, including back pay for employees affected by the layoffs. Recognizing the correct threshold is essential for both companies planning workforce reductions and for employees in understanding their rights under the law.