On June 15, 2023, Governor Whitmer signed into law the “Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair Act” or CROWN Act, expanding the Elliot-Larsen Civil Rights Act to include discrimination based on hair texture and protective hairstyles. Read to learn more about this new law.
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rescind any existing non-competes and inform current or former employees who are bound by a non-compete that they are no longer in effect.
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.
The 29th Edition of Best Lawyers in America® has included eight attorneys from Kotz Sangster's Detroit, Bloomfield Hills and Niles, Michigan offices. And four attorneys resident in the firm's Detroit, Bloomfield Hills and St. Joseph, Michigan offices have been honored in the 3rd Edition of Best Lawyers - Ones to Watch. Notably, 2023 U.S. News - Best Lawyers®, "Best Law Firms" listing has recognized Kotz Sangster regionally in eight practice areas.