09-30-2026
Your monthly digest that highlights key articles, insights, and headlines for a quick, organized look at what mattered most in workplace and employment law news.
In September, we reported on notable employment discrimination cases, employee rights and workplace protections, labor relations, and emerging compliance challenges driven by technology and evolving legislation.
Labor Day’s Historical Significance to Respectful Workplaces
Labor Day 2027:, EPS Celebrates Workers Everywhere
At EPS, building respect in the workplace is a fundamental principle of our work. We honor those who fought for the right to work with dignity, fair and equal pay, and safe working conditions.
AI, Emerging Technology & Regulatory Oversight
CA Governor Signs New Executive Order for Possible AI “Kill Switch”
California Governor Gavin Newsom issued a new executive order on September 18, 2026, that directs a group of “world-leading experts” to convene and begin developing a framework for how the state can govern AI – before it’s too late.
Labor Relations
Three States Pass Laws Allowing Rideshare Drivers to Form Unions
Several states enacted new laws that allow rideshare drivers to form unions, with MA certifying the first rideshare union in May 2026. This is a first for independent drivers to form unions and bargain for protections without qualifying as employees under the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA).
Workplace Discrimination Cases
Ford Settles Race and National Origin Claims with EEOC
The EEOC investigated and found reasonable cause to believe employees at the facility were subjected to harassment and discrimination in violation of Title VII.
Discrimination May Be Established Without a Similarly Situated Comparator
The Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals held that a jury could reasonably find discrimination under a “mosaic of evidence” and absent an equal comparator, after two individuals complained of differential treatment in the workplace.
Employee Rights, Benefits & Workplace Protections
Access to Personnel Records Now a Right for All NY Residents
On September 9, 2026, NY Governor Kathy Hochul signed a bill expanding employee access to personnel files. The new law, part of New York’s Labor Code, applies to all private- and public-sector employers and gives both current and former employees access to their personnel files.
Connecticut Employers: Expanded Salary Transparency Obligations
Starting October 1, 2026, Connecticut’s pay transparency law — amended by H.B. 5003 — significantly broadens employer obligations to disclose wage and benefit information to applicants and employees.
Check In: Four Years After PUMP Act Passage
Bloomberg Law analyzed cases brought under the Providing Urgent Maternal Protections for Nursing Mothers Act (PUMP Act) and found that workers have been particularly successful in litigation under this law when compared to other employment statutes.
NY Employers Have Ongoing Obligations Under the 9/11 NOTICE Act
In 2023, NY Governor Kathleen Hochul signed the 9/11 NOTICE Act. The program was designed as a means to inform current and former employees of their eligibility for benefits that address the long-term health effects of the September 11, 2001 attacks.
Read the articles: September 2026
Our Team at EPS wishes you and your team happy reading!