On Thursday, June 1, 2023, the Grieving Families Act (Assembly Bill A6698) was passed by the New York State Assembly. The bill will now be presented to the Senate for a vote and, if passed, will be delivered to Governor Hochul for signature or veto.

On May 18, 2023, the United States Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) released its long-awaited technical assistance document on the use of software, algorithms, and artificial intelligence (AI) in employment selection procedures. The guidance document provides insight for employers and HR professionals to use these emerging technologies in a manner consistent with Title VII. 

On May 19, 2023, the G7 announced the coordination of additional sanctions against Russia and various individuals and entities determined to be aiding sanctions evasion. These latest measures create an additional level of legal risk for companies operating in various industries around the world.

On May 18, 2023, the Illinois legislature passed House Bill 0219, amending the Illinois Wrongful Death Act to allow for the recovery of punitive damages in wrongful death actions. The bill will soon be sent to the Governor’s desk for signature. If signed into law, the statutory change will allow heirs of decedents to recover punitive damages in wrongful death actions.

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis recently signed a bill prohibiting Chinese citizens who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents from purchasing any residential or commercial land or farmland in Florida.

On March 30, 2023, the U.S. Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) updated its FAQ 1118 regarding the payment and implementation of the Russian “exit tax” in connection with the divestment of assets from Russia and with respect to specific licenses required from OFAC for such transactions. Such transactions may potentially require dealings with the Central Bank of the Russian Federation or the Ministry of Finance of the Russian Federation, so closer scrutiny is warranted.

The State of Florida recently passed new legislation (SB1718) regulating the hiring, transportation, and medical treatment of undocumented immigrants. Specifically, the bill that was signed into law prescribes the actions that employers must take to verify employment eligibility and sets forth reporting requirements for hospitals that treat undocumented immigrants. It also imposes penalties for engaging in various activities involving these individuals.

It is well-established that providing complete and accurate information to insurers during the insurance application process is critical. This holds true regardless of the type of insurance an applicant is seeking, or whether an insurance agent is participating in the process. A current case involving former MLB pitcher Matt Garza underscores exactly how important it is for insurance agents to pay close attention when assisting clients.