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.

2025 NBIOs: Success Rates and Engagement Trends Analysis

JD Supra Securities released an analysis of Non-Binding Indicative Offers (NBIOs) and pre-bid stakes in public M&A for calendar year 2025. The analysis shows a 30% success rate for NBIOs, consistent with prior years, but a significant drop in private equity success rates to 14%. Engagement periods have also extended.

Healthcare Authority Newsletter - March 2026

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has doubled its nursing home staffing campaign funding to $200 million. The newsletter also highlights state encouragement for ACA signups, physicians forming IPAs, increased healthcare IT and cybersecurity investments, a report urging reform of private equity investment in healthcare, and CMS's efforts to leverage AI for Medicare beneficiaries.

FTC Creates Healthcare Task Force

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has established an internal Healthcare Task Force to enhance enforcement and policy efforts related to competitive and affordable healthcare. The task force aims to improve knowledge sharing, identify emerging issues like AI in healthcare, and expand inter-agency collaboration.

CDC Solicitation of Nominations for Mine Safety and Health Research Advisory Committee

The CDC is soliciting nominations for membership on the Mine Safety and Health Research Advisory Committee (MSHRAC). The committee consists of 10 experts in mining safety and health research and practice. Nominations are due by April 22, 2026.

CMS Seeks Letters of Intent for Medicare Lifestyle Intervention Funding

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) is seeking letters of intent for the MAHA ELEVATE Model, a new funding opportunity to pilot lifestyle interventions within Original Medicare. Approximately $100 million will be awarded over three years to 30 cooperative agreements, with letters of intent due by April 10, 2026.

EU Privacy Regulators Issue Opinion on Proposed Biotech Act

The European Data Protection Board (EDPB) and European Data Protection Supervisor (EDPS) issued a joint opinion on the proposed EU Biotech Act. The opinion supports the act's goals but calls for clarification on GDPR compliance, data processing, consent, AI obligations, and data retention for clinical trials involving medicinal products.

Home Construction Permit Fee Scams Target Homeowners

The New Hampshire Security Team issued a scam alert regarding fraudulent emails targeting homeowners undertaking construction projects. The emails falsely demand immediate payment for permit fees via wire transfer, payment apps, or cryptocurrency, aiming to defraud recipients.

SAPWG Proposes Statutory Accounting Changes and Derivatives Guidance

The NAIC's Statutory Accounting Principles Working Group exposed proposed changes to statutory accounting, including guidance on derivatives, residential mortgage loans, and disclosures. Public comments are being accepted on these items until May 1.

Consumer Financial Services Updates: AI, Crypto, Student Loans, FinCEN

This newsletter from Troutman Pepper Locke summarizes federal and state activities impacting the consumer financial services industry. Key updates include President Trump's AI legislative framework, and CFTC FAQs on crypto assets and blockchain technologies for financial institutions.

Colombia Decree on MIPYMES Capital Markets Access via Securitization

Colombia's Financial Regulation Unit (URF) has published a draft decree allowing micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MIPYMES) to access capital markets through securitization. The proposal aims to address the significant financing gap faced by these businesses by establishing specific rules for asset-backed securitization processes.

Subscription Lines as Liquidity Tools for BDCs and Interval Funds

Cadwalader, Wickersham & Taft LLP discusses how subscription credit facilities can help Business Development Companies (BDCs) and interval funds manage redemption pressures. The article highlights the benefits of these facilities in the current liquidity environment and differentiates between BDC and interval fund structures.

FinCEN Issues Implementation Guidance for All-Cash Real Estate Reporting Rule

FinCEN has issued implementation guidance for its rule requiring reporting on certain all-cash residential real estate transactions involving legal entities or trusts. The reporting requirements begin March 1, 2026, and will affect attorneys, title companies, and settlement agents, introducing new information collection and filing obligations.

JLG 279 v. Uber Technologies, Inc. - Civil Suit Filing

The U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California has filed a new civil case, JLG 279 v. Uber Technologies, Inc. et al. The case was filed on March 27, 2026, with JLG 279 listed as the plaintiff and Uber Technologies, Inc., Rasier, LLC, and Rasier-CA, LLC as defendants. The nature of the suit is listed as 'P.I.: Other' under Diversity jurisdiction.

Carrillo v. L.A.S.D. et al - Prisoner Condition Civil Case

The U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California has filed a new civil case, Carrillo v. L.A.S.D. et al, on March 27, 2026. The case involves a prisoner's claim regarding prison conditions and is based on federal question jurisdiction.

Roe CL 298 v. Uber Technologies, Inc. - Personal Injury Product Liability

A civil case, Roe CL 298 v. Uber Technologies, Inc. et al., was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California on March 27, 2026. The case involves a complaint for personal injury and product liability, with a filing fee of $405.

Roe CL 299 v. Uber Technologies, Inc. - Personal Injury Product Liability

The U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California has filed a new civil case, Roe CL 299 v. Uber Technologies, Inc. The case, classified under Diversity Jurisdiction and Nature of Suit for Personal Injury Product Liability, was filed on March 27, 2026, with an initial filing fee of $405.

Voltstar Technologies v. Logitech Inc. - Patent Infringement

Voltstar Technologies, Inc. has filed a patent infringement lawsuit against Logitech Inc. in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California. The complaint was filed on March 27, 2026, initiating a new civil case focused on alleged patent violations.

Nadler v. Borla et al - Prisoner Condition Complaint

The U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California has filed a new civil case, Nadler v. Borla et al. The case involves a prisoner's complaint regarding prison conditions and was filed on March 27, 2026. The court has issued notices regarding the filing fee and assignment to a magistrate judge.