In a predictable shift toward employer-friendly standards, the National Labor Relations Board (“Board”) has reinstated a standard that gives employers greater latitude in determining whether an employee’s abusive conduct during union or other protected activity loses legal protection under the
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Promising News for Management on the Labor Front: NLRB General Counsel Signals Employer-Friendly Priorities
On August 26, 2026, General Counsel for the National Labor Relations Board (“Board”) Crystal S. Carey issued Memorandum GC 26-04, signaling that many of the employee-friendly precedents adopted during the Biden years are squarely in the crosshairs.
While a GC
Washington Meal and Rest Break Class Actions Continue Unabated: What Employers Should Be Doing Now
For Washington employers, meal and rest break class actions continue to be one of the most active areas of wage and hour litigation. Despite years of litigation and recurring lawsuits challenging break practices across industries, there has been little indication
New Idaho Laws Affecting Businesses
Two new Idaho laws may affect businesses’ relationships with independent contractors and their management of public-facing restrooms. Employers should review existing policies and practices to determine whether updates are needed.
Independent Contractor Benefits
Effective July 1, 2026, Idaho’s new Portable
Oregon Minimum Wage Increases Effective July 1, 2026
As they prepare for July payroll, employers should keep in mind that increased minimum wage rates take effect July 1, 2026. These increases continue Oregon’s system of geographically tiered wages adjusted annually for inflation.
Oregon maintains a three-tier minimum wage
When ICE Comes to Your Workplace
An unexpected visit from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) can be disruptive and stressful. Employers who prepare in advance—and respond carefully—can protect their businesses, avoid unnecessary liability, and maintain order during a difficult situation.
ICE has raised the stakes for
Washington Bans Noncompete Agreements: What Employers Need to Know
UPDATE AS OF 3/24/2026: This week, Governor Bob Ferguson signed HB 1155 into law, effectively banning workplace noncompete agreements and redefining permissible nonsolicitation agreements. The law takes effect on June 30, 2027. While its effective date is more than a
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
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
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