Policies / Handbooks

Executive order takes aim at law firm, targets DEI activities in legal industry

03/17/2025

The order ostensibly targets the firm’s hiring and promotion policies, which it characterizes as “blatant race-based and sex-based discrimination.”

DEI reversals could have long-term reputational consequences

03/03/2025

Recent research from Columbia Business School reveals that companies rolling back their diversity, equity and inclusion commitments may face lasting reputational damage, particularly among Black consumers.

Survey: Employers stay the course on DEI despite government pressure

03/03/2025

Forty-nine percent of C-suite leaders told the Littler Mendelson law firm they are not considering rolling back their programs as a result of President Trump’s anti-DEI executive orders, and only 8% said they are seriously considering changes.

Court blocks two Trump anti-DEI orders targeting private employers

02/28/2025

A federal judge in Maryland has temporarily blocked portions of two White House executive orders aimed at abolishing diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives in private-sector organizations, including federal contractors.

DEI opposition may require handbook changes

02/20/2025

Since taking office, President Trump has aggressively issued orders seeking to eliminate diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives from the federal government—and now from the private sector, too. To avoid potential federal scrutiny, you may want to consider revising your DEI programs and how they are described in your handbook.

New Jersey marijuana laws prohibit applicant lawsuits

02/12/2025

In 2022, New Jersey voters approved an amendment to the state constitution that decriminalized the use and possession of marijuana. The law also barred discrimination based on marijuana usage but stated that employers were entitled to maintain a drug- and alcohol-free workplace.

How to minimize the legal risks of romance at work

02/12/2025

Valentine’s Day is coming up fast—the perfect time to revisit policies regulating romance in the workplace. Start with this simple proposition: You’re better off managing co-worker relationships than issuing an outright ban. Then follow these tips.

DOJ to investigate private employers’ DEI activities

02/10/2025

Attorney General Pam Bondi is launching a nationwide investigation of private-sector employers that conduct activities designed to foster diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility in their workplaces, a process that Bondi said could result in criminal charges against companies.

Plan now for administration’s possible DEI crackdown

02/03/2025

In his first week in office, President Trump issued a wide-ranging executive order designed to identify federal government agencies that have what are colloquially called diversity, equity and inclusion programs or policies. At first glance, most private-sector employers might not be concerned. But dig deeper, and the order reveals more.

Off-duty medical marijuana use may call for accommodation

01/15/2025

As more states legalize medical and other marijuana usage, employers must adjust their policies to conform to those new laws. That’s not an easy task.