Government & Legislation

CMA Advocates Non-Compete Clause Reform and Salary Threshold Ban

The UK's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has responded to a government working paper on reforming non-compete clauses in employment contracts. The CMA advocates for reforms, including a ban on non-competes below a salary threshold, to enhance labour market mobility.

School Uniforms Act Northern Ireland 2026 Guidelines and Allowances

The School Uniforms (Guidelines and Allowances) Act (Northern Ireland) 2026 mandates the Department of Education to issue binding guidelines on school uniform policies and requires the Education Authority to extend eligibility for school clothing allowances. The Act aims to ensure fairness, practicality, and affordability in school uniform policies.

Plant Varieties Act Amendment Regulations 2026

The UK Secretary of State has issued the Plant Varieties Act (Amendment) Regulations 2026, amending the Plant Varieties Act 1997. These regulations clarify the definition of 'small farmer' concerning farm saved seed, with no significant impact foreseen on businesses.

Deaths, Still-Births and Baby Loss Act (Northern Ireland) 2026

The Deaths, Still-Births and Baby Loss Act (Northern Ireland) 2026 has been enacted, amending the law on the notification of deaths and still-births. It introduces provisions for electronic means of notification and the issuance of certificates recognizing baby loss.

A249 Trunk Road Key Street Slip Road Order 2026

This statutory instrument, the A249 Trunk Road Key Street Slip Road Order 2026, establishes new road infrastructure within the UK. It details specific changes to the A249 Trunk Road, including the Key Street slip road. The order is part of the UK's ongoing road network development.

GAO Recommends Improvements for Nonbank Mortgage Lending Oversight

The GAO has released a report highlighting the increasing reliance on nonbank mortgage lenders and the associated risks to the housing market. The report recommends improvements in federal oversight and data collection for these entities.

GAO Report: Social Security Death Data Prevents Federal Payment Errors

A GAO report highlights a successful pilot program that made permanent a law allowing the Department of the Treasury's Do Not Pay system access to the Social Security Administration's full Death Master File. This initiative has prevented millions in improper federal payments, saving taxpayers money.

DOD Missile Tracking System Faces Cost and Technical Challenges

A GAO report highlights significant cost and technical challenges facing the Department of Defense's new missile tracking system. The system, intended to counter emerging threats, is behind schedule and over initial cost estimates, with potential for further delays and increased expenses.

GAO Recommends Improving CPSC Oversight of Children's Products

The GAO has recommended that the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) improve its oversight of children's products to better ensure safety from toxic substances like lead. The report highlights areas for improvement in lab oversight and the implementation of a new e-filing system for importers.

GAO Oversight and Congressional Question Answering

The GAO published a blog post on February 12, 2026, detailing how it answers complex questions from members of Congress. The post highlights examples of GAO's work, including estimating fraud in government spending and analyzing the impact of SEC regulations on conflict minerals.