Labor & Employment

ERISA Fiduciary Duties and Alternative Assets Investment Rule

The Department of Labor's EBSA published a proposed rule (RIN 1210-AC38) clarifying fiduciary duty of prudence under ERISA for selecting designated investment alternatives in participant-directed individual account plans, including asset allocation funds with alternative assets. The proposal provides a safe harbor to alleviate regulatory burdens and litigation risk, implementing Executive Order 14330. Public comments are due June 1, 2026.

Asbestos Shipyards Standard Information Collection Request

DOL-OSHA is submitting an Information Collection Request (ICR) for the Asbestos in Shipyards Standard (OMB Control No. 1218-0195) to OMB for review under the Paperwork Reduction Act. The standard requires shipyard employers to train workers on asbestos hazards, monitor exposure, provide medical surveillance, and maintain records. Public comments are requested by April 29, 2026.

Fiduciary Duties in Selecting Designated Investment Alternatives

The Department of Labor's Employee Benefits Security Administration (EBSA) published a proposed rule (RIN 1210-AC38) clarifying fiduciary prudence duties under ERISA for selecting designated investment alternatives in participant-directed individual account plans, including asset allocation funds containing alternative assets. The proposal implements Executive Order 14330 and provides a safe harbor for plan fiduciaries. The 62-day comment period closes June 1, 2026.

$1M Apprenticeship Grants for Texas Healthcare Workforce

The Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) and Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) announced $1 million in apprenticeship grant funding to support healthcare workforce development in Texas. Through this partnership, $500,000 will be available in fiscal years 2026 and 2027 to support the creation or expansion of healthcare apprenticeship programs under the Disproportionate Share Hospital (DSH) Program.

EEOC v. Cogar Group - Religious Discrimination

The EEOC has filed a lawsuit against Cogar Group alleging religious discrimination. The complaint claims the company forced a Baptist deacon to resign from his security position due to his religious beliefs. This enforcement action seeks to enforce federal employment discrimination laws protecting workers from religious-based adverse employment actions.

EEOC v. Ascend Wellness Holdings - Sexual Harassment

The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission filed a sexual harassment lawsuit against Ascend Wellness Holdings, a cannabis company, related to incidents at the company's Collinsville facility. The EEOC alleges violations of federal civil rights laws protecting employees from workplace sexual harassment.

Kroger Sued for Disability Discrimination After Stripping Employee's Accommodation

The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission filed a lawsuit against The Kroger Co. alleging the grocery retailer violated the Americans with Disabilities Act by terminating an employee with neuropathy after removing her previously-approved workplace accommodation. The EEOC seeks back pay, compensatory damages, and punitive damages for the terminated employee.

Colorado Apprenticeship Month 2026: Spread the Apprenticeship Effect

Colorado Department of Labor and Employment announced Colorado Apprenticeship Month 2026, celebrating the state's role as a national leader in Registered Apprenticeship Programs. Apprenticeship Colorado registered over 100 new programs in 2025, expanding into healthcare, clean energy, and cybersecurity sectors. The announcement highlights the Future Ready Apprenticeship Center and promotes National Apprenticeship Week from April 26 to May 2.

Statutory Redundancy Claim - Ann Marie Murray v. Rockys Takeaway

The Workplace Relations Commission adjudicated a statutory redundancy claim by Ann Marie Murray against Kieran Walsh trading as Rockys Takeaway Ballylinan. Following a hearing on 4 March 2026, Adjudication Officer Seamus Clinton found in favor of the complainant, determining she was entitled to statutory redundancy payment. The respondent did not attend the hearing.

Hugh Myles v. Mk Tyres - Employment Dispute

The Workplace Relations Commission adjudicated employment complaints brought by Hugh Myles against Mk Tyres (Mark Keenan). The Adjudication Officer Niamh O'Carroll heard complaints under the Unfair Dismissals Act 1977, Terms of Employment (Information) Act 1994, Minimum Notice & Terms of Employment Act 1973, and Organisation of Working Time Act 1997. Multiple complaints were withdrawn by the complainant prior to the hearing. The binding decision resolves the dispute between the parties.