Significant recent developments for the EPA rule defining waters of the U.S. (WOTUS) include adverse GAO findings & a defunding attempt. Most important for Florida, the WOTUS rule will decide what waters are considered federal wetlands and require a permit from the Army Corps of Engineers before being altered (as well as involving review under the Endangered Species Act).
Litigators often depend on demonstrative evidence and exhibits to help make a persuasive argument, and to help increase understanding and retention levels of juries. However, too little time and effort is spent on the creation of such evidence – especially when, to be effective, demonstrative evidence requires meticulous preparation.
Promptness in reacting to a data breach and awareness of the relevant regulations is critical to helping a company avoid harsh fines, consumer backlash and further data loss.
Employers and human resource professionals should tread cautiously when it comes to racial discrimination claims in the workplace – regardless of an employee's appearance or claims of ethnicity.
Rather than wait for an unannounced visit by the Department of Labor, employers can conduct their own internal audits as part of a larger discussion they should have about wage and hour compliance.
