Trade Secrets and Restrictive Covenants in 2025: Year in Review: 2025 saw increased scrutiny of noncompete agreements and trade secret litigation, with multiple states introducing or enacting legislation to limit or ban restrictive covenants, and federal agencies continuing to pursue overbroad restrictive covenants on a case-by-case basis.
OSHA Electronic Recordkeeping Obligations for 2026: Key Changes and Compliance Risks: Starting in 2026, OSHA mandates updated electronic reporting for high-hazard industries and establishments with 100+ employees, specifically requiring submission of Forms 300, 300A, and 301. Non-compliance increases inspection risks and enforcement actions. Businesses must submit these records via the Injury Tracking Application (ITA) by March 2, 2026.
US Department of Labor’s Employee Benefits Security Administration Updates National Enforcement Projects for Employee Benefit Plans: On January 15, 2026, the U.S. Department of Labor’s EBSA announced a major overhaul of its national enforcement projects for fiscal year 2026, focusing on strengthening compliance and protecting employee benefit plan participants. The updated strategy prioritizes investigations into cybersecurity, mental health benefits, surprise billing, and retirement asset management.
Winter Weather Is Here: Safety and Pay Practices Businesses Should Have On The Forecast: While there are no specific federal rules on keeping workers safe in the cold, employers still have a legal obligation to maintain a safe workplace. This article advises employers to conduct a hazard assessment to determine what steps will protect their staff from freezing temperatures.
Emerging Trends in Employment Arbitration in 2026- What Employers Need to Know: Employment arbitration remains a critical mechanism for resolving workplace disputes efficiently and fairly, offering an alternative to prolonged court litigation. However, employers face evolving legal challenges and regulatory developments that require careful attention to maintain the enforceability and effectiveness of arbitration agreements.