Following its first two years of substantial deregulatory efforts, the Trump administration’s U.S. Department of Labor ends 2019 continuing to reverse many of the Obama administration’s anti-growth policies and allowing businesses to thrive in a slower-growing, yet still favorable, economy.
New Federal Regulations on Overtime Exemptions
In September, the U.S. Department of Labor announced a final rule that raises the salary thresholds for the “white collar” overtime exemptions to the Fair Labor Standards Act.
States Make Major Legislative Determinations
Here's a look at state-level legislative updates across the United States.
Important Deadline: Submit EEO-1 Component 2 Compensation Data by Sept. 30
Certain employers will be required for the first time to submit detailed data on employee compensation and hours worked for calendar years 2017 and 2018 to the EEOC as part of their annual EEO-1 form submission by Sept. 30, 2019.
Workers’ Compensation Is Broader Than the Border
When undocumented workers get hurt on the job, their individual illegal status does not obviate a right to workers’ compensation benefits; it may, however, limit the benefits to which they are entitled.
Worker Classification: Employee or Independent Contractor?
Government crack-downs on misclassification of employees, along with class-action lawsuits challenging the classification of some employees, could cost an employer back pay, liquidated damages and fines.
Navigating the Evolving Standard on Criminal Background Checks
The First Step Act, which aims to reduce prisoner recidivism and increase workforce readiness, may affect contractors' hiring processes and background check procedures.
2019 Executive Insights: Construction Law
Industry experts weigh in on construction legal advice.












