The U.S. Department of Labor has released additional clarifications around implementing the Providing Urgent Maternal Protections for Nursing Mothers Act ("PUMP Act"), which President Biden signed into effect back in December 2022. The document, Field Assistance Bulletin No. 2023-2, provides guidance to its field staff on the PUMP Act and its enforcement. Read to learn more about implementation of the PUMP Act.
On January 5, 2023, the Federal Trade Commission (“FTC”) issued a proposed rule that would ban the use of non-compete clauses, also known as restrictive covenants, in employment agreements. The proposed rule is very broad, and its application would be far-reaching. The proposed rule would prevent employers from entering into non-competes and would also require employers to rescind any existing non-competes and inform current or former employees who are bound by a non-compete that they are no longer in effect.
The business world is abuzz with implementing Environmental, Social, and Governance strategies, often abbreviated ESG. These multi-part strategies outline practical guidelines the company operates within through a series of related policies. While ESG-type practices have existed far longer than the buzzword itself, transparency via technology has become an enormous factor. As companies of all sizes continue moving toward transparency in their ESG practices, the requirements they impose will likely extend into their supply chain as well. Here are a few reasons why mid-market companies should prepare for ESG to extend to their supply chain and examples of policies they may consider looking for in prospective supply partners.
Ed Boucher, a top construction lawyer at Kotz Sangster, was awarded the 2023 W. Nelson Vander Hyden Award by the Washtenaw Contractors Association (WCA) as part of their annual Pyramid Awards on March 10, 2023. The award is given annually to construction industry leaders who make an impact on the Washtenaw community.
On March 16, 2023, Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed Senate Bill 4 (“SB 4”), which amends and expands the Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act (“ELCRA”) to prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity or expression in employment, public accommodations and public services, educational facilities, housing and real estate. Here's a brief breakdown of the amendment and what employers should know.
This year the Kotz Sangster team was proud to sponsor two ice festivals in Southwest Michigan, the South Haven Area Chamber of Commerce Ice Breaker Festival and the St. Joseph Today Magical Ice Fest. Our team sponsored two sculptures, one at each event. In South Haven, our artist carved a penguin from a solid block of ice. In St. Joseph, they carved out a bear from the ice chunk.
Today, in a unanimous ruling, the Michigan Court of Appeals reversed the decision of the Michigan Court of Claims that would have required a minimum wage increase and expanded paid leave in February 2023. As a result, Michigan employers will not be required to change their sick leave policies or increase the minimum wage.
There are many questions regarding possible changes to the Michigan Paid Medical Leave Act (PMLA) and the minimum wage that could go into effect February 20, 2023. As of now, due to a stay from the Michigan Court of Claims, the current laws remain in effect until February 19, 2023. An appeal is pending before the Michigan Court of Appeals, and the parties have asked the COA to issue a decision by February 1, 2023. Regardless of the decision, it is fully anticipated that it will be appealed to the Michigan Supreme Court. Here is a summary of the impact of the updated laws.
Diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) compliance is at the forefront of employers’ minds. Concerns surrounding employment and hiring processes are under the microscope like never before. While many might believe they already have appropriate policies and practices in place, there are serious legal consequences for businesses found to be in violation of civil rights laws.
Attorneys at Kotz Sangster have once again been recognized by DBusiness Magazine as Top Lawyers in Metro Detroit.