Our recent 2026 Legislative & Compliance Update webinar dove into legal and regulatory changes that will impact businesses across various industries in the new year.
From new state and federal laws to advancements in AI and workplace policies, we discussed critical updates that employers need to stay informed about to ensure compliance and mitigate risks.
Here are our key takeaways from the session:
1. Oregon Legislative Updates for 2026:
- SB 906: Employers must provide detailed written explanations of earnings, deductions, and benefits at hire and annually. Non-compliance incurs a $500 penalty.
- SB 916: Striking workers can collect unemployment benefits for up to 10 weeks.
- HB 435: Joint liability for unpaid wages extends to property owners and contractors.
- SB 537: Expanded workplace violence prevention requirements for healthcare employers, including training, assessments, and reporting.
2. Federal Updates:
- New tax deductions for tipped income and overtime pay.
- Executive orders and DOJ guidance emphasize changes in anti-discrimination enforcement.
- Supreme Court rulings clarify discrimination and accommodation claims under Title VII.
3. AI in the Workplace:
- Real-life examples of AI bias in hiring processes.
- States like California and New York have AI legislation requiring impact assessments and bias audits.
- Federal efforts to limit state-level AI regulations are underway.
4. Wage Transparency:
- States like California, Colorado, and Washington lead in wage transparency laws.
- Washington developments include penalties for noncompliance and expanded rights for applicants to sue.
5. Leave Law Updates:
- Oregon updates to Paid Leave, Family Leave, and Sick Time laws.
- Washington expands Paid Family Leave and Pregnancy-Related Accommodations.
6. Miscellaneous Updates:
- New regulations on disability income insurers.
- Expanded protections for minor league baseball players, bilingual employees, and veterans in Oregon.
With significant and frequent changes and updates occurring in employment law, AI regulations, and workplace policies, businesses should prioritize compliance to avoid penalties and foster a fair, transparent, and safe work environment.
By staying ahead of these changes, organizations can better navigate the evolving legal landscape and position themselves for success in 2026 and beyond.
