Author: James W. Ward
Model Crime Victims’ Leave Notice Released
While most of California’s revised and expanded crime victims’ leave requirements took effect on January 1, 2025, the notice provision didn’t go into effect until…
Domestic Worker Employers Subject to Workplace Safety Rules Staring July 1
The California Department of Industrial Relations (DIR) recently reminded employers of domestic workers that California’s workplace safety and health laws — enforced by the California…
California Labor Commissioner Issues Immigration Compliance Reminders
The California Labor Commissioner recently reminded California employers about California’s immigration laws and protections, highlighting that they protect every worker in the state — regardless…
U.S. Supreme Court Issues ‘Reverse Discrimination’ Decision
The U.S. Supreme Court unanimously ruled that members of a majority group claiming workplace discrimination do not need to meet a heightened evidentiary standard to…
California CRD’s New Age Discrimination Fact Sheet
To coincide with California Governor Gavin Newsom’s proclamation that May is Older Californians Month, the California Civil Rights Department (CRD) published a new fact sheet…
Federal Court Vacates EEOC’s Abortion Accommodation Requirement
On May 21, 2025, a federal court in Louisiana vacated a portion of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission’s (EEOC) Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA) regulations,…
2024 EEO-1 Data Collection Now Open, Closes June 24
On May 20, 2025, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) announced the opening of the 2024 EEO-1 Component 1 data collection. Employers have until…
U.S. DOL Reconsiders Independent Contractor, Overtime Rules
On May 1, 2025, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) issued a field assistance bulletin stating it intends not to enforce its 2024 independent contractor…
Executive Order Seeks to Eliminate Disparate Impact Discrimination Liability
Through executive actions, President Trump has issued orders addressing diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, federal contractor minimum wage and affirmative action obligations, among many others….
Prospective Meal Period Waivers Are Valid
In a recent case, a California Court of Appeal handed employers a rare win, finding nonexempt employees’ written prospective meal waivers — meaning employees signed…
