The U.S. Department of Labor is planning to issue regulations in 2016, bringing an additional 13.5 million workers under the overtime requirements of the Fair Labor Standards Act. While the intent is to compensate workers for their additional time working, there is concern that this can have some negative impact on the flexibility of some positions.

However, it appears this concern has been overblown--employers can continue to provide flexible work arrangements to these employees by following certain wage and hour standards. Yet, the debate raises an important issue that should be addressed by the Department of Labor, whose regulations and guidance would benefit from an update in terms of flexible work options.

Though the benefits of flexibility are relatively clear for employees, it can be not as clear for employers. Some benefits of flexibility include reduced stress and improved health and well-being, reducing absenteeism and overall healthcare costs. Additionally, flexible work has shown to increase job satisfaction, productivity, efficiency, and performance while reducing turnover.

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