Getting construction underway before a contract is signed can feel like a practical necessity in fast-paced projects. But what seems like progress can create unintended legal and operational risks. Modern construction agreements are detailed documents that define scope, risk allocation,
Stoel Rives LLP
Stoel Rives is a leading U.S. corporate and litigation law firm. One of the largest national firms focused on energy, natural resources, climate change and the environment, Stoel Rives also serves the agribusiness, food and beverage, health care, life sciences, real estate and construction, and technology industries. With more than 350 attorneys operating out of 10 offices in seven states and the District of Columbia, Stoel Rives is a leader in regulatory and compliance matters, and business, labor and employment, land use, and intellectual property law.
Latest from Stoel Rives LLP - Page 6
“You May No Longer Be a QF”
April 20, 2026 Update: On April 20, 2026, the Qualifying Facility owners from Branch Street filed a petition in the D.C. Circuit asking the court to review FERC’s February 19, 2026 order.
On February 19, 2026, the Federal Energy Regulatory…
Securing and Contracting Agentic AI
Agentic AI refers to AI systems that can independently plan, decide, and act toward a goal across multiple steps, often invoking tools, APIs, or other systems without continuous human prompting. Unlike traditional generative AI—which produces content in response to a…
Understanding Washington’s New Solicited Real Property Act
Effective January 1, 2026, Washington’s newly enacted RCW 61.40.010 (the “Solicited Real Property Act”) introduces a suite of statutory protections for property owners in transactions initiated through direct solicitation. While many prospective purchasers will be impacted, this provision will have…
Key Employment-Related Bills Oregon Employers Should Watch in the 2026 Short Legislative Session
Oregon’s 2026 short legislative session is underway, and a few proposed bills could affect employers of all shapes and sizes. Although short sessions move quickly, they often include important policy changes, particularly in the labor and employment space. Below is…
EPA Proposes to Narrow Scope of Clean Water Act Section 401 Water Quality Certifications – Comment Deadline Looming
- Comment Deadline: February 17, 2026, via the Federal eRulemaking Portal, email (OW-Docket@epa.gov), or mail. Comments must be submitted in writing and identified with Docket ID No. EPA‑HQ‑OW‑2025‑2929.
- Adoption: Expected in Spring 2026 (subject to comments received).
On January…
Leave and Benefits Updates for California Employers in 2026
California’s leave and benefits landscape continues to expand with revised paid sick leave rules, upcoming changes to paid family leave, and broader personnel file access requirements. Employers must understand these changes to avoid disputes and maintain compliant practices.
Here is…
CPUC Signals Shift on Cost Recovery for Transmission-Level Interconnections
As data centers and other large load customers seek to connect to California’s power grid, the California Public Utilities Commission (Commission) is rethinking how—and when—those customers should be refunded for costly transmission infrastructure upgrades.
Historically, distribution-level interconnection customers paid up…
Contracts, Wage Judgment Enforcement, and Arbitration for California in 2026
Through new legislation and shifting enforcement priorities, California continues to challenge common workplace practices, including collectible wage judgments and binding employment agreements. Employers must understand how new rules on wage judgment penalties, stay-or-pay provisions, and arbitration agreements affect risk and…
California AI and Privacy Legislation Update – January 2026
The new year is off to a quick start. February looms. Businesses are beginning to settle into 2026, and some trends (or at least outlines of such) are beginning to emerge. Businesses are digesting the AI and privacy bills that…