New York State has amended its upcoming pay transparency law, which will go into effect on September 17, 2023. The amendment specifies that the law will apply to jobs that will physically be performed in New York or those that report to a supervisor or office in New York. The amendment eliminates the recordkeeping requirements of the initial version of the law, but employers should maintain records to ensure compliance with wage-and-hour laws and in case of claims by an employee. The amendment also incorporates a definition of "advertisement" and makes technical corrections. Employers should review their job postings to ensure compliance with the updated law.

The Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA) is a new law that goes into effect on June 27, 2023 that requires employers with 15 or more employees to provide reasonable accommodations to pregnant workers for known limitations related to pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions, unless it causes undue hardship. The law prohibits employers from discriminating against covered employees who request reasonable accommodations and requires them to engage in an interactive process to arrive at a reasonable accommodation. The PWFA protects against retaliation and ensures that pregnant workers can continue working with reasonable accommodations. Employers should update their policies, train supervisors and HR departments, and analyze potential accommodations to prepare for the new law.

Starting in 2024, new federal reporting requirements will be implemented for individuals who own 25% or more of a small entity, run a small business, or have substantial control over any company. These individuals will need to register in a federal database, which will require personal information, such as name, date of birth, residential address, ID number, and a photograph of the document. Existing companies as of January 1, 2024, will need to register by the end of that year, and new companies will need to register within 30 days of creation.

In an effort to reduce the number of distracted driving incidents, the New Jersey police are cracking down on drivers who text or use cell phones while driving. Distracted driving has been identified as a major contributor to nearly 800,000 motor vehicle crashes in the state from 2012-2016. Drivers who are caught texting or holding a cell phone while driving can expect to face a penalty of $200 to $400 for the first offense, and could be subject to additional fines and insurance points for subsequent violations. Stay safe on the road and avoid the penalties by keeping your phone out of reach while driving.

Everyone should take part in estate planning for a secure future. Start early for peace of mind. Learn why young, single, married, and older individuals should have key documents like a will, financial power of attorney, and more.

Every nonprofit organization in the US needs an Employer Identification Number (EIN), which is a unique number used to identify an organization to the IRS. Nonprofits require EINs for various tasks, including filing tax forms, opening a business bank account, hiring employees, and applying for business licenses and permits.

A revocable trust provides several advantages, including avoiding court intervention, ease of administration, direct distribution of assets, flexibility for future planning, and privacy. By placing assets in one operating base, you can direct how assets are distributed, specify who will manage finances in the event of disability or incapacity, and limit access to the trust document. It's important to note that only assets placed in the trust will be subject to its rules, and you should work with an attorney to determine which assets to transfer for maximum effectiveness.

Individuals who own 25% or more of a limited liability company, partnership, or other small entity that owns real estate or runs a small business, or who have substantial control over any company, will be required to register in a new federal database beginning in 2024.

The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) has issued a ruling that employers cannot include confidentiality or non-disparagement provisions in severance agreements that would require employees to waive their rights under the National Labor Relations Act.

The Inflation Reduction Act includes several provisions that modify and extend tax credits for solar projects. One of the key provisions is the extension of the Investment Tax Credit (ITC) for solar energy property through at least 2033

The NJCCIC is warning of an increase in email phishing attacks. These emails, claiming to be from well-known companies, attempt to obtain account credentials and other personal information by including a transaction invoice and then directing victims to a malicious service helpline.

Unmarried couples should draft a comprehensive legal agreement, including a "living together contract," as part of their estate plan. If you do not want to marry but want to live together in an unmarried relationship, it is critical to create an agreement that clearly defines expectations, terms, and responsibilities.