News and Information

The 3-Ring Circus: Democrats, Republicans … and Trump

Whenever the White House changes hands from one political party to another, labor and employment laws are likely to change as well. The more organized the incoming party, the swifter the change —and vice versa. When President-elect Trump takes office next year, the imbalance of a majority party that is not united and a minority party that is still a political force bodes for a volatile situation. Fundamental changes will not be swift, but employers will need to monitor developments closely to be prepared for potential outcomes.

What can employers expect?

• Confusing statutes and regulations
• Increased litigation by both employers and employees
  • Appeals up to the Supreme Court, which may take until 2017-2018 to take effect
• Shift in enforcement activities from federal to state agencies

What can employers do in the meantime?

• Know your company, and figure out what laws impact you most
• Get organized; be sure you are fully compliant with existing laws
• Be ready to adapt when changes actually happen

For further discussion, see the presentation by Anna Elento-Sneed on “What Hawaii Employers Can Expect in the Trump Era.”