Saipan — The CNMI Department of Labor is reminding employers that businesses planning a reduction in force or closure must provide advance written notice both to the department and to affected employees under Commonwealth labor regulations.
In a notice issued February 27, the department said employers are no longer required to appear in person to complete the process. Instead, businesses can submit the required paperwork online through the form available on the Department of Labor website under the Resources section’s Forms and Publications page.
Under the rules cited by the department, businesses must give written notice to the Department of Labor at least 60 days before a planned reduction in force or closure. Affected employees must also receive written notice at least 30 days before the effective date.
The department said that once a notice is submitted through the online portal, it will begin its Rapid Response process to help affected U.S. workers with job placement, retraining opportunities, and transition support services.
Labor officials also warned that failing to meet the notice requirements could lead to penalties and other legal consequences under CNMI labor law. The department urged employers to plan ahead and use the online system to maintain compliance and transparency during workforce transitions.
The reminder cites Section 80-20.1-240 of the CNMI Administrative Code and comes as the department emphasizes early communication when businesses anticipate workforce reductions or shutting down operations.
