Trade Mark Decision O/0263/26 - Revocation Grounds

The UK Intellectual Property Office issued a trade mark decision (O/0263/26) on March 26, 2026, concerning revocation grounds related to genuine use and variant forms of marks. The decision was made by Hearing Officer Mr Oliver Rose'Meyer.

CICLO 365 Trade Mark Opposition Decision

The UK Intellectual Property Office issued a decision regarding the trade mark opposition for CICLO 365. The decision, dated March 27, 2026, was made by Hearing Officer Mr John Williams concerning marks in classes 09, 16, 28, 35, 38, 41, and 42.

Sanctions Notice: Two Individuals Designated Under ISIL/Al-Qaida Regulations

The Guernsey Financial Services Commission has issued a sanctions notice designating two individuals, Sami Jasim Muhammad Jaata Al-Jaburi and Abd El Hamid Salim Ibrahim Brukan Al-Khatouni, under ISIL (Da’esh) and Al-Qaida regulations. Businesses must immediately freeze assets and report any relationships with these individuals.

Management Advisory on DoD Military Treatment Facility Security Procedures

The DOD OIG has issued a management advisory evaluating the security procedures at DoD military treatment facilities in the National Capital Region. The report, No. DODIG-2026-072, assesses the effectiveness of physical security measures within these facilities.

Audit of DoD Cloud Access by Contractors in Countries of Concern

The DOD OIG has announced an audit of contractor access to DoD cloud computing environments in countries of concern, initiated in March 2026. This audit is mandated by the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 and will examine contractor access controls and data security.

Whistleblower Reprisal Investigation - Goldbelt Logistics

The DOD OIG substantiated allegations of whistleblower reprisal against a U.S. Government civilian employee and Goldbelt Integrated Logistics Services, LLC (GBILS). The investigation found that a contractor employee was removed from a government contract after making protected disclosures during a Navy investigation.

Audit of Logistics Civil Augmentation Program Contract for Haiti Mission

The DOD OIG released an audit report (DODIG-2026-071) assessing the DoD's management of the Logistics Civil Augmentation Program V (LOGCAP V) contract for the Multinational Security Support Mission in Haiti. The report details findings and recommendations regarding contract oversight.

Audit of Naval Supply Systems Command Management of Inventory Items with No Demand

The DOD OIG has released an audit report (DODIG-2026-073) assessing the Naval Supply Systems Command's (NAVSUP) management of inventory items with no demand for five years or more. The report was published on March 26, 2026.

Oklahoma Legislature Passes Bills to Strengthen Domestic Violence Laws

Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond announced the unanimous passage of four bills by the state legislature aimed at strengthening domestic violence prevention and prosecution. The measures introduce GPS monitoring for high-risk offenders, elevate serious injuries to felonies, allow prior abuse evidence, and mandate longer sentences for strangulation convictions. These bills, recommended by the Domestic Violence Fatality Review Board, aim to reduce domestic violence homicides.

DHS Preparation for End of Title 42 Order

The DHS Office of Inspector General issued a final report reviewing DHS and CBP preparation for the end of the Title 42 public health order. The report contains four recommendations, two of which are considered open and unresolved, requiring further action from CBP within 90 days.

CBP Has Not Evaluated Security Risks of Interview-Waived Visa Holders

The DHS Office of Inspector General issued a report finding that U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has not evaluated the security risks associated with nonimmigrant U.S. visa holders whose interviews were waived by the Department of State. The report includes one recommendation for improving risk assessments, which CBP has concurred with.

Covert Tests Assess TSA Screening Technologies and Officer Effectiveness

The DHS Office of Inspector General conducted covert tests to evaluate the effectiveness of TSA's checkpoint screening technologies and personnel in preventing threat items on commercial aircraft. The report, OIG-26-01, details findings from these tests, though specific information may be classified.

DHS Faces Major Management and Performance Challenges

The DHS Office of Inspector General has identified major management and performance challenges facing the Department, including fragmentation in hiring processes, financial stewardship, and information management and security. The report highlights persistent silos among DHS components, leading to resource duplication and inconsistent outcomes.

DHS FY 2025 Financial Statements and Internal Control Audit

The DHS Office of Inspector General released an audit report on the Department's FY 2025 financial statements and internal controls. While the financial statements received an unmodified opinion, an adverse opinion was issued on internal controls due to five material weaknesses and one significant deficiency. The report also noted noncompliance with two laws.

Treasury OIG Management Challenges Letters

The Treasury Office of Inspector General has published its annual Management Challenges Letter for December 2025. This document, along with historical letters dating back to 2012, outlines key areas of concern and potential risks within the Department of the Treasury and related programs, such as the RESTORE Act.

Treasury OIG Semiannual Reports to Congress

The Treasury Office of Inspector General (OIG) provides semiannual reports to Congress detailing its activities, major issues, and recommendations for corrective action. These reports are issued for the periods ending March 31 and September 30 each year, as mandated by the Inspector General Act of 1978.

Treasury OIG Testimonies and Other Official Documents

The Treasury Office of Inspector General (OIG) has published a list of recent testimonies and other official documents. These include findings and determinations related to the Emergency Rental Assistance Program, Coronavirus Relief Fund proceeds, and summaries of work on terrorist financing and anti-money laundering.

Treasury OIG Audit and Evaluation Reports

The Treasury Office of Inspector General (OIG) has published updated audit and evaluation reports, with the latest dated March 13, 2026. These reports cover various agencies and programs, including audits related to CARES Act pandemic relief efforts for air carriers.

Peer Review Reports from the Office of Inspector General

The Treasury Office of Inspector General (OIG) has updated its index of peer review reports. The page includes links to letters from other government agencies regarding peer reviews of the Treasury OIG's audit systems, with the most recent dated November 27, 2024. This update appears to be informational, adding new reports to an existing index.

Miami Tax Preparers Preliminarily Enjoined from Preparing False Returns

The U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida has issued a preliminary injunction against Miami-area tax preparer Christopher Brown and his business, Superior Taxes LLC. The injunction prohibits them from preparing tax returns for others due to evidence of filing false returns that understated tax liabilities and inflated refunds.

Executive Order on Mortgage Credit Access

President Trump signed an executive order directing federal financial regulators to consider changes aimed at reducing regulatory burdens in mortgage origination, servicing, and licensing. The order specifically targets community banks and smaller institutions, reflecting a view that current regulations have increased costs and limited credit availability.

CalPrivacy Fines PlayOn Sports $1.1M for Data Sales

The California Privacy Protection Agency (CalPrivacy) has settled with PlayOn Sports, a digital ticketing platform, imposing a $1.1 million civil penalty for selling personal information without providing consumers an opt-out. The settlement stems from violations occurring between January 1, 2023, and December 31, 2024, and highlights CalPrivacy's focus on digital tracking and data sales.

Executive Order on DEI Discrimination by Federal Contractors

President Trump issued an executive order on March 26, 2026, establishing new requirements for federal contractors regarding Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) activities. The order defines racially discriminatory DEI activities and mandates new contract clauses requiring contractors to report on and prevent such practices, with potential penalties for non-compliance.

Policy Week in Review - Federal Workplace Legislation and DHS Funding

This policy update covers federal workplace legislation and DHS funding issues. Key developments include the Senate passing partial DHS funding, President Trump issuing an executive order on DEI discrimination by federal contractors, and the DOL proposing a rule to increase wages for foreign workers in certain visa programs.

Court Rulings Affirm Agency Procedural Safeguards for Climate Infrastructure Funds

Federal courts have ruled that agencies must follow procedural requirements when administering climate infrastructure funds. Decisions in Washington and D.C. invalidated agency actions that froze EV-charging funding and terminated DOE grants based on political affiliation, impacting billions in infrastructure projects.

Renewable Market Distress: Preserving Value and Capturing Opportunity

Sheppard Mullin LLP hosted a panel discussing distress in the renewable energy market due to the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA). Panelists warned of potential capital shortfalls and advised proactive contingency planning for project developers and investors facing valuation shifts.

Offshore Wind Projects Successfully Challenge BOEM Suspension Orders

The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) issued suspension orders for five offshore wind projects, citing national security concerns. Developers successfully challenged these orders in court, obtaining preliminary injunctions by February 2, 2026, arguing the suspensions were arbitrary and capricious.

FEMA FY 2024-2025 BRIC Grant Funding Opportunity Released

FEMA has released the Notice of Funding Opportunity for the FY 2024-2025 Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) grant program, making $1 billion available for hazard mitigation. The program has narrowed eligible activities to focus on infrastructure and construction projects, with new compliance requirements for applicants. Applications are due July 23, 2026.

Kendell Seafood Imports v. Mark Foods - Affirmance of District Court Order

The First Circuit affirmed a district court's order dismissing Kendell Seafood Imports' tortious interference claim against Mark Foods. The court found that the amended complaint did not moot the pending motion to dismiss and that the claim lacked facial plausibility.

Urizar-Mota v. United States - FTCA Negligence Claim

The First Circuit Court of Appeals affirmed in part and reversed in part a district court ruling concerning a Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA) negligence claim. The court remanded for further proceedings on homemaker damages awarded to the plaintiff, Lucia Urizar-Mota, who alleged medical negligence by federally funded health center providers led to permanent neurological damage.

Holland v. Elevance Health, Inc. - Health Plan Exclusion of Weight-Loss Medication

The First Circuit affirmed a district court's dismissal of a class action lawsuit against Elevance Health, Inc. The plaintiff alleged that the health insurance plan's exclusion of weight-loss medication violated federal law by discriminating against enrollees with obesity. The court found that the plaintiff's allegations did not plausibly support her theories of unlawful disability discrimination.

Supreme Court: ISPs not liable for user copyright infringement without intent

The Supreme Court ruled that Internet Service Providers (ISPs) are not liable for user copyright infringement solely based on knowledge of the infringement. The decision in Cox Communications Inc. v. Sony Music Entertainment clarifies that intent to encourage infringement or providing a service primarily for infringing uses is required for ISP liability. This ruling may impact how platforms are expected to enforce terms of service against infringing users.

PMPRB Proposes Practice Directions for Hearings and Seeks Feedback

The Patented Medicine Prices Review Board (PMPRB) has published seven proposed Practice Directions for its hearings, seeking public feedback by May 4, 2026. These proposals aim to modernize procedures, standardize document exchange, and expedite certain proceedings, including the use of AI.

Court Grants Summary Judgment, Finds No Copyright Infringement

The U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York granted summary judgment to defendants in Freeman v. Deebs-Elkenaney, finding no copyright infringement. The court determined that similarities between the plaintiff's unpublished drafts and the defendants' bestselling novel series were limited to unprotectable tropes common to the genre.

Sync Licensing Control: Retaining Approval Rights After Copyright Assignment

This article discusses how artists and creators can retain control over sync licensing by negotiating upfront approval rights, even after assigning copyright ownership. It highlights the distinction between consultation rights and approval rights, using recent disputes as case studies to emphasize the importance of strategic contract drafting in protecting brand alignment and public perception.

FTC Warns Auto Dealers on Vehicle Price Advertising

The FTC sent warning letters to 97 auto dealership groups regarding deceptive vehicle price advertising practices. The agency stated that advertised prices must reflect the total cost to consumers, excluding only government charges, to comply with Section 5 of the FTC Act.

Indiana Prohibits Virtual Currency Kiosks

Indiana Governor Mike Braun signed House Bill 1116 into law, prohibiting the operation of virtual currency kiosks in the state. Violations are now considered deceptive acts actionable under the Indiana Deceptive Consumer Sales Act, with potential liability for property owners who knowingly permit kiosk operations. The law is effective immediately.

Digital Platform Services Face Consumer Law Scrutiny

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) is increasing scrutiny on digital platform services regarding consumer law, focusing on design choices and user journeys rather than just marketing. In-house counsel should address potential unconscionable conduct and misleading practices arising from platform design.

Employer Contributions to Section 530A Trump Accounts

The IRS has provided guidance on employer contributions to new Section 530A Trump Accounts, established by the One Big Beautiful Bill Act of 2025. Employers can contribute up to $2,500 annually per employee or dependent, which is excluded from taxable earnings. Further guidance on non-discrimination rules is anticipated.

UK Pensions Law Digest: Pension Schemes Bill, IHT, PPF, TPR Updates

This UK pensions law digest summarizes recent developments including House of Lords amendments to the Pension Schemes Bill, updates on Inheritance Tax legislation, Pension Protection Fund levy rules for 2026/27, and new guidance from the Pensions Regulator. It also covers consultations on simplified pension advice and reporting standards.

Tax Incentives Review for Renewable Energy Sector Changes in Brazil

Mayer Brown has released an analysis of Brazil's Complementary Law No. 224/2025, which revises tax incentives for the renewable energy sector. The new law presents challenges for investors and developers, impacting project viability and financial structuring.

EU Legal Professional Privilege Challenged by AI Confidentiality Risks

This article discusses how the adoption of Generative AI tools poses new challenges to legal professional privilege (LPP) under EU law. It highlights concerns that using AI may inadvertently undermine LPP protections, potentially exposing communications to public authorities. The guidance aims to identify key challenges and offer practical advice for safeguarding LPP.

Trump Administration AI Regulation Framework and Proposed Bill

The Trump administration released a National Policy Framework for Artificial Intelligence, outlining a non-binding 'wish list' for federal AI regulation. This framework, alongside a draft bill from Senator Marsha Blackburn, signals significant movement towards comprehensive federal AI legislation, emphasizing federal preemption of state laws and a 'light-touch' approach using existing agencies.

AI Pricing and Evidence Avoidance: Competition Law Risks

JD Supra highlights emerging competition law risks associated with AI-powered pricing and evidence avoidance tools. The guidance warns companies that traditional antitrust principles apply to algorithmic conduct, citing enforcement actions in the EU, UK, and US that have resulted in significant fines.

Identifying AI-Generated Evidence and Holding Counsel Accountable

This article from JD Supra discusses the increasing prevalence of AI-generated evidence in legal proceedings and provides guidance for attorneys on how to identify and authenticate such evidence. It emphasizes the importance of critical evaluation, metadata analysis, and expert consultation to ensure the integrity of evidence and hold counsel accountable for its use.

European Cybersecurity M&A Climbs Amid Accelerating AI-Driven Attacks

European cybersecurity M&A is projected to increase due to a rise in AI-driven attacks and new EU regulations like NIS2 and the Cyber Resilience Act. The European cybersecurity market is expected to grow significantly, driven by increased investment and regulatory mandates for enhanced cyber defenses.

Oklahoma Enacts Comprehensive State Privacy Law

Oklahoma has enacted its 21st state-level comprehensive privacy law, Enrolled Senate Bill No. 546, which will take effect on January 1, 2027. The law grants consumers specific privacy rights and imposes obligations on businesses regarding data processing, security, and disclosures, enforced by the Attorney General.

Oklahoma Enacts Comprehensive Consumer Data Privacy Law

Oklahoma has enacted Senate Bill 546, establishing its comprehensive consumer data privacy law, making it the 21st state with such legislation. The law applies to businesses meeting specific data processing thresholds and grants consumers rights similar to those in other state privacy laws.

Sustainability Spotlight: Q4 2025 Legal Update on SEC Proxy Advisors

JD Supra's Q4 2025 Sustainability Spotlight highlights the SEC's actions to regulate proxy advisors and state AGs challenging 'greenwashing' by Big Tech. The update also notes litigation concerning electric vehicle rentals.

California Suspends Enforcement of Venture Capital Diversity Reporting Law

The California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation (DFPI) announced on March 17, 2026, that it is suspending enforcement of the Fair Investment Practices by Venture Capital Companies Law (FIPVCC). This suspension is effective until further notice, pending the completion of a rulemaking process and adoption of final regulations, delaying the April 1, 2026, reporting deadline.