Oregon has enacted HB 4127, also known as the Warehouse Worker Protection Act, which takes effect on January 1, 2025. The new law introduces critical protections for warehouse workers, particularly those working under strict quotas in e-commerce and large distribution centers. Key Provisions of the Oregon Warehouse Worker Protection Act – Transparent quota requirements: Employers... View Article
Running a business in Oregon is a lot like crafting the perfect beer—it takes creativity, precision, and an ability to adapt to changing conditions. Between the state’s entrepreneurial energy and its complex business laws, entrepreneurs are constantly tweaking their recipes for success, balancing compliance and growth like a brewer balancing hops and malt. Oregon isn’t... View Article
UPDATE: New developments again on the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA). On December 26, the court reversed its previous decision, and filing is suspended pending further litigation. Read on the latest update here. On December 23, 2024, the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals reinstated the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA), reversing an earlier nationwide injunction that had paused... View Article
As 2024 wraps up, it’s a good time to take a step back and think about the changes this year brought for businesses everywhere. New challenges, new opportunities—what did they mean for your business? Did you feel prepared, or were there moments where you wished you had a little more support to tackle them head-on?... View Article
On August 20, a federal judge in Texas struck down the Federal Trade Commission’s (FTC) rule that would have banned noncompete agreements nationwide. This ruling has significant implications for both employers and employees across the United States. U.S. District Judge Ada Brown ruled that the FTC does not have the authority to implement a sweeping... View Article
An AI policy establishes a clear framework for how your company will develop, deploy, and manage AI technologies. It helps address potential issues such as unauthorized use of software, data breaches, and ethical concerns. By having a well-defined AI policy, your company can build trust with customers, employees, and stakeholders, showcasing your commitment to responsible and secure AI practices.
Time rounding is designed to streamline payroll calculations benefitting both employers and employees. The Department of Labor and Industries in Washington has historically permitted this practice, provided it adheres to a strict neutrality policy. The rule is clear: any rounding must not favor the employer. In instances where bias is evident, the scales must tip... View Article
Navigating the new era of noncompete agreements is crucial for businesses, as regulatory demands for transparency are rapidly increasing. States like California, Washington, and Oregon have significantly restricted noncompetes, and the FTC has approved a nationwide ban, pending legal challenges. Multi-state employers must understand the complex interplay of federal and state laws to remain compliant. With noncompetes becoming less viable, alternative strategies such as non-disclosure agreements, confidentiality provisions, and robust trade secret management are essential to protect business interests. Employers must proactively adapt to these changes to ensure compliance and safeguard their competitive edge.
Now is the time to review your employment documents and identify any provisions that may be classified as noncompete provisions that will contravene the new Washington law and the federal Rule. Assess the potential risks these changes pose to your business and consider alternative risk management tools to safeguard your business interests. Make necessary changes to documents and processes to ensure compliance with Washington’s law. Compile a list of current and former employees impacted by the new federal Rule and be prepared to modify your documents again to comply with the Rule, should it come into effect.
