Labor & Employment

TÜV SÜD Product Services GmbH Voluntary NRTL Termination

OSHA published a notice announcing that TÜV SÜD Product Services GmbH voluntarily terminated its recognition as a Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory (NRTL), effective March 5, 2026. The company notified OSHA on May 22, 2025, that it would not seek renewal of its recognition expiring March 5, 2026. Existing certifications were transferred to TÜV SÜD America, Inc.

Consultation on Gig Worker Safety Under Model WHS Act

Safe Work Australia published a consultation paper seeking feedback on regulating crowd platform workers under the model Work Health and Safety Act. The consultation addresses gaps in WHS protections for gig economy workers using digital labour platforms. Feedback will inform discussions on potentially introducing new duties for crowd platform operators.

Job Corps Health Questionnaire Information Collection Extension

The Department of Labor's Employment and Training Administration is soliciting public comments through June 1, 2026, on extending authority to collect the Job Corps Health Questionnaire. The proposed revision transitions applicant health information collection from paper-based to digital format, reducing average response time. This information collection determines eligibility for Job Corps program participants under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act.

Student Experience Assessment (SEA) of Job Corps Centers - Comment Request

The Department of Labor's Employment and Training Administration (ETA) is soliciting public comments on a proposed extension for the Student Experience Assessment (SEA) of Job Corps Centers, an information collection request under the Paperwork Reduction Act. The SEA evaluates whether Job Corps center programs are intensive, well organized, and providing quality services under WIOA. Comments are due June 1, 2026.

Virtual Layoff Assistance Session

The South Dakota Department of Labor & Regulation announced a free virtual layoff assistance session on April 7, 2026, designed for individuals who have been laid off. The session will cover reemployment assistance applications, job search resources, skills development, and training opportunities. Registration is required via the department's workshop calendar.

Idaho County Population Growth 2025

The Idaho Department of Labor released U.S. Census Bureau population estimates showing 36 of Idaho's 44 counties (80%) experienced population growth in 2025. Five urban counties—Ada, Canyon, Kootenai, Bonneville, and Twin Falls—each added at least 1,000 new residents, with Ada leading at over 10,000 new residents.

ASCEND Grant for Texas Employer Workforce Training

The Texas Workforce Commission announced the ASCEND grant program, a $5 million fund to help Texas employers train their workforce in high-demand industries. Employers can receive reimbursements up to $500,000 or $4,000 per trainee for approved training projects. The program dedicates $1 million specifically to domestic shipbuilding training. Applications are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.

Cosmos Restaurant settles pregnancy discrimination lawsuit, Bay St. Louis

The EEOC announced a settlement resolving a pregnancy discrimination lawsuit against Cosmos Restaurant in Bay St. Louis, Mississippi. The restaurant allegedly discriminated against a pregnant employee, resulting in a settlement that includes monetary compensation and injunctive relief. This case demonstrates the EEOC's continued enforcement of pregnancy discrimination protections under federal law.

St. Vincent Hospital Sued for Disability Discrimination

The EEOC filed a lawsuit against St. Vincent Hospital alleging the hospital failed to provide reasonable accommodations to an employee with a disability and subsequently terminated the employee. The enforcement action seeks to enforce federal civil rights protections under the Americans with Disabilities Act. Healthcare employers should review their accommodation policies and interactive process procedures.

Motor Vehicle Dealer Facility Requirements Markup

The Arkansas Motor Vehicle Commission proposes amendments to 23 CAR § 410 establishing facility requirements for motor vehicle dealers. The proposed rules cover building specifications (permanent structure, minimum 120 sq. ft. display and service areas), signage, hours of operation, and office standards. Separate provisions address branch location restrictions and modified requirements for ATV and low-speed vehicle dealers.