The TroopHR Podcast Ep 27. Navigating Employment Law in 2025: Trends, DEI Backlash, and HR Challenges with Julie Werner, Partner at Lowenstein Sandler LLP
Jan 26, 2025
Julie Werner, a seasoned employment lawyer with over 27 years at Lowenstein Sandler LLP, dives into the future of employment law. She discusses the FTC's proposed non-compete ban and the impact of reverse discrimination cases on workplace policies. Julie unpacks the political pushback against DEI initiatives and what it means for HR practices. She also offers insights on evolving labor standards and anticipates challenges in immigration policies under the upcoming administration, making it a vital conversation for HR leaders.
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FTC Non-Competes Ban Blocked
- The proposed FTC national ban on non-compete agreements caused major concern in 2024.
- The rule was blocked by courts and looks unlikely to proceed under the incoming administration.
DEI Faces Growing Challenges
- DEI initiatives face increasing legal and political backlash including pending Supreme Court cases on "reverse discrimination."
- Some companies are scaling back DEI due to shareholder activism and political pressure.
Avoid Discrimination in Hiring
- Employers should avoid making decisions excluding individuals solely based on their race or gender.
- Such exclusions can lead to legal risks and harm workplace fairness.