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.

In the matter of Pizzo v. Lustig, decided on May 10, 2023, New York’s Appellate Division, Second Department issued a lengthy decision that addresses when, and under what circumstances, defendants in New York should disclose video surveillance in order to reduce the possibility of such evidence getting precluded at the time of trial.

In its yearly spending bill passed in December 2022, the United States Congress expanded the rights of pregnant and nursing employees. The omnibus spending bill, HR 2617, created the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA) and the Providing Urgent Maternal Protection for Nursing Mothers Act (PUMP Act). Employers must be aware of both of these powerful new laws as well as recent guidance issued by enforcement agencies