New England Biz Law Update

The the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has issued an interim final rule ending automatic extensions of certain Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) for non‑citizen workers whose renewal applications are pending with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

A Black former IBM executive has filed a federal lawsuit against the company, alleging that she was wrongfully terminated – along with several other Black leaders – as part of IBM’s attempt to comply with President Donald Trump’s 2020 executive order restricting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives among federal contractors.

The 6th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals has upheld an award of summary judgment in favor of an employer in a racial discrimination suit brought by a terminated employee who fabricated his managerial and educational experience.

Cyber threats and economic instability remain the leading concerns for North American businesses, according to Aon’s 2025 Global Risk Management Survey. The findings highlight a rapidly evolving landscape where technological, geopolitical, climate, and workforce risks are increasingly intertwined.

The Massachusetts Appeals Court is weighing a case that could offer the first appellate guidance on the “safe harbor” provision of the Massachusetts Equal Pay Act, a key protection for employers who proactively review and address gender-based pay disparities.

The U.S. Treasury Department has launched an online payment portal to support the newly required $100,000 fee for certain H-1B visa petitions.

Strict rules govern the completion and accuracy of I-9, and failure to follow them can place an employer in a difficult position.

The U.S. Department of Labor has issued two new opinion letters clarifying when overtime pay is required under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA).

A federal trial court has ruled that a Black employee who was fired after the single use of an anti-Black slur could not sue for wrongful termination.

Fraud thrives when employees believe no one is watching. Strong internal controls demonstrate that management is reviewing transactions, thus reducing opportunities for misconduct.