LaborSpeak

Connecticut has enacted a comprehensive new framework regulating the use of artificial intelligence (AI) that will significantly expand employer obligations in the coming years. Connecticut joins a growing patchwork of state AI laws—including measures in Illinois, Colorado, California, New York City, and Texas—that differ in enforcement, scope, and notice and audit obligations, creating a complex compliance landscape for multi-state employers.

Virginia has enacted a broad set of employment law reforms that will significantly expand employer obligations over the next several years. These new laws reflect growing nationwide trends relating to restrictive covenants, compensation practices, leave policies and salary transparency.

Washington State has enacted legislation that will render most non‑compete agreements void and unenforceable as of June 30, 2027. Learn more about the Washington non‑compete law in Akin’s latest LaborSpeak video.

Learn more about the recent amendments to New York’s Trapped at Work Act in Akin’s latest LaborSpeak video.

The Employment Rights Act signals the most significant and meaningful change to UK employment law in a generation.  Learn more about how these changes impact all UK employers by watching our latest LaborSpeak video.

In this installment, we cover the recent case challenging the use of AI in hiring.

All New York and California employers should be aware of some changes that prohibit employers from requiring employees to repay certain amounts in the event they leave employment prior to a set date. These are commonly known as “stay or pay” agreements. Both New York and California recently enacted laws regulating these types of agreements, though the laws currently differ in key ways.

New York City recently enacted changes to the Earned Safe and Sick Time Act that will impact how all private employers provide leave to employees. These amendments expand employee rights and will go into effect February 22, 2026.