Labor Days

News and analysis from Kelley Drye’s labor and employment practice

The H-1B Process Springs Forward: Changes to the Upcoming H-1B Registration, Petition, and Fee Schedule

As the birds begin chirping and the flowers get ready to bloom, it can only mean that the H-1B cap season is quickly approaching. Prospective H-1B candidates and employers prepare for a coveted “lottery” win, vying for…

Senate Bill 699 Bolsters California Non-Compete Ban

Background On January 1, 2024, a new law, SB 699, became effective, strengthening California’s Bus. & Prof. Code Section 16600, the state’s long standing non-compete ban. Under Section 16600, “every contract by which…

DOL Announces Final Independent Contractor Classification Rule

It’s a traditional Democrats vs. Republican football: federal agencies under Democratic control want to make it harder to classify workers as independent contractors, and Republicans want to make it easier.…

Double Duty for Chicago Employers: NEW 2024 Compliance Burden Related to Paid Leave Ordinances

Starting January 1, 2024, nearly all workers in the state of Illinois are guaranteed at least one week of paid leave under the Illinois Paid Leave for All Workers Act . However, eligibility isn't guaranteed, and there…

Governor Hochul Vetoes Ban on Noncompetition Agreements for New York Employees

The long-awaited death of noncompetes in New York is—forgive the pun—dead in the water, at least for now. On December 22, 2023, Governor Hochul vetoed pending legislation that would have effectively banned…