On July 25, 2023, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) published a final rule addressing a new optional remote procedure for the Form I-9 employment eligibility verification process, effective August 1, 2023. As a reminder, Form I-9 regulations require employers to physically examine identity and employment verification documentation presented […]
Labor & Employment Law Update
At Last…the New Form I-9 is Released, Effective August 1st
Today, July 25, 2023, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (“USCIS”) published formal notice of a new streamlined and shortened Form I-9 effective August 1, 2023. While employers may continue to use the current version through October 31, 2023, fines will be levied if the new Form is not used (for […]
U.S. Supreme Court Clarifies Affirmative Action in Higher Education
A recent United States Supreme Court ruling, curtailing the use of affirmative action in higher education, will require many universities to alter their admissions processes. Affirmative action in the educational context is the use of race-conscious admissions policies that are designed to restore those who have experienced discrimination, foster diversity, […]
U.S. Supreme Court Expands First Amendment Rights for Business Owners
The Supreme Court’s 6-3 decision, 303 Creative LLC v. Elenis, issued on Friday, June 30, 2023, held that requiring a business owner to create customized wedding websites for same-sex couples would violate the business owner’s First Amendment right to free speech. This holding expands First Amendment rights for business owners […]
U.S. Supreme Court Ruling Expands Protections for Employees Receiving Religious Accommodations
On June 29, 2023, the United States Supreme Court strengthened religious freedom protections for employees. The case involved a former United States Postal Service (USPS) mail carrier, Gerald Groff, an evangelical Christian who requested accommodations to observe the Sabbath by not working on Sundays. For a time, USPS did not […]