United States: Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

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Business law and corporate law thought leadership, articles, podcasts, videos and webinars from expert sources across the legal world. Explore insights covering topics that involve business and corporate law produced by specialists working in this area every day.
Podcast
Coffee Chats With WIN: Don’t Take Yourself Out Of The Game (Podcast)
In this episode of Coffee Chats with WIN, hosts Jessica Stewart and Lauren Russell sit down with Lesley Adamo, Vice Chair of the Tax Group and New York Office Managing Partner at Lowenstein Sandler. Lesley shares her journey into tax law, the pivotal advice that shaped her path to partnership while balancing family life, and why bringing your authentic self to work matters.
United States Employment
LS
Lowenstein Sandler
Article
How To Acquire A Colorado Cannabis License
Colorado regulates marijuana businesses through the state Marijuana Enforcement Division (MED), while local jurisdictions retain separate licensing and regulatory authority over marijuana businesses within their boundaries. The current Colorado Marijuana Rules are codified at 1 CCR 212-3 (version effective January 5, 2026). Because state rules, forms, fee schedules, and local ordinances can change, applicants should confirm relevant requirements before filing or closing a transaction.
United States Commercial
HS
Harris Sliwoski
Article
IRS Takes Aim: Proposed Rule Threatens Tax-Exempt Status Of Private Schools
The IRS has proposed a sweeping rule that would strip tax-exempt status from private schools maintaining race-conscious policies, including diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. The proposed regulation, set to impact over 18,000 educational institutions and 750,000 students, extends beyond traditional discrimination to encompass policies intended to serve remedial or diversity-related objectives. Schools face critical compliance decisions regarding scholarships, admissions criteria, and athletic pro
United States Tax
CM
Crowell & Moring LLP
Article
Signed, Sealed, Scrutinized: DEI, Certifications, And FCA Risk (Video)
As government contractors face mounting scrutiny over diversity initiatives, a critical question emerges: can DEI-related representations trigger False Claims Act liability? This program examines how workplace diversity commitments intersect with federal fraud enforcement, exploring recent settlements and legal theories that have transformed DEI compliance into a potential source of significant legal exposure.
United States Government
KG
K&L Gates LLP
Article
DEI Programs Under Spotlight: A “Wicked” Tale For New York Theater
Recent lawsuits against theater organizations signal a dramatic shift in how diversity, equity and inclusion programs are being legally challenged. From discounted ticket promotions to apprenticeship opportunities, DEI initiatives that once seemed routine are now facing federal scrutiny and litigation under anti-discrimination laws. Theater companies, producers and arts organizations must navigate this evolving legal landscape to protect their programs while continuing to pursue diversity goals.
United States Employment
BS
Bond, Schoeneck & King PLLC
Article
EEOC Rescinds Longstanding Affirmative Action Guidance, Signaling Increased Scrutiny Of Voluntary DEI And Affirmative Action Programs
The EEOC has rescinded decades-old guidance on voluntary affirmative action under Title VII, removing the administrative framework employers relied upon to evaluate diversity programs. This development raises critical questions about the future of workplace DEI initiatives and signals heightened scrutiny of employment practices that consider protected characteristics in decision-making.
United States Employment
BL
Butzel Long
Article
EEOC Rescinds Guidance On Permissible Affirmative Action
The EEOC has rescinded its longstanding guidance on voluntary affirmative action plans under Title VII, eliminating the safe harbor defense for employers and signaling heightened scrutiny of workplace diversity initiatives. This policy shift raises critical questions about the future of affirmative action in employment and how companies can navigate compliance amid evolving legal standards and increased federal enforcement focus.
United States Employment
LM
Littler Mendelson
Article
PayPal And IBM Settlements Signal Expanded Scrutiny Of DEI Programs
The US Department of Justice has launched investigations into corporate diversity, equity, and inclusion programs at PayPal and IBM, using novel applications of the Equal Credit Opportunity Act and False Claims Act. These enforcement actions signal a significant shift in regulatory scrutiny of DEI initiatives, particularly those involving financial services, federal contracts, and credit-related activities.
United States Commercial
S
Steptoe LLP
Article
The EEOC Proposes Major Changes To Federal EEO-1 Reporting Requirements
The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission has submitted a proposal to rescind federal EEO reporting requirements, including EEO-1 through EEO-5 obligations and related demographic data collection. While this aligns with the Trump Administration's focus on reducing DEI initiatives, employers face uncertainty about whether 2026 reporting obligations remain in effect as the proposal undergoes the administrative rulemaking process.
United States Employment
MF
Masuda, Funai, Eifert & Mitchell, Ltd.
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