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Get ready for new workplace laws kicking in this month. October brings new legislation and regulatory changes for more than 10 states and Washington DC, and employers operating in those places must take note. New laws cover issues such as pay transparency (Connecticut), “captive audience” meetings (Maryland), immigration-related notices (Washington state), and more. Get caught up by using our Employer Cheat Sheet for Workplace Laws Taking Effect in October 2026.

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Address workplace conditions that could draw union support. A survey released last month showed that 71% of Americans approve of labor unions, the highest reading tracked since the 1950s. But union membership has been moving in the opposite direction for decades. We covered what this could mean for your operations, including six steps you can take in today’s labor environment.

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Review practices that could be considered unlawful DEI. Deloitte is the latest major federal contractor to enter a multi-million-dollar settlement with the Department of Justice over allegedly unlawful diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) practices. Here are the key takeaways for both contractors and private employers.

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Make sure your retirement and health plans meet Q4 deadlines. The fourth quarter is an important time for employers and plan administrators to...