As Congress works through the tax and spending bill, Gene Marks recognizes the challenges ahead but says he thinks it ultimately will pass. He shares insights on the importance of keeping the tax credits for small businesses. That might lift their spirits but, according to the Small Business Optimism Index, not much else is rosy. Sales volumes are down, plans for capital outlay are down, and that has optimism down for a fourth month. Gene also talks about the buy-now pay-later service Klarna doing a 180-degree turn, choosing human hires over AI after going all in on AI three years ago.

DISCLAIMER: The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.

This week’s guest, employment law expert Ben Ebbink of Fisher Phillips, tackles your biggest questions about President Trump’s first 100 days head-on. Wondering if your DEI policies are still compliant? Not sure how executive orders will affect hiring and workplace rules? Curious how state laws come into play? Ben breaks down the red flags, offers practical compliance tips, and clarifies what’s actually changed for employers in light of Trump’s recent actions. Tune in to unravel exactly how executive orders, DEI policies, and shifting regulations could impact your workplace.

Join Ben and Gene for a more in-depth review of Trump’s first 100 days in this on-demand webinar: https://bit.ly/3FEWlVU

Topics include: 00:00 – Episode preview and welcome 01:51 – Webinar overview 03:01 – Is it time to revert your DEI policies? 05:49 – Managing risk in DEI programs 07:37 – DEI red flags that may attract scrutiny 11:10 – Demographic grant and scholarship programs 12:17 – Should you still call yourself an equal opportunity employer? 13:05 – EEO-1 reporting requirements and what changed 14:49 – Set-asides for women or minority-Owned businesses 16:57 – Do you need to rewrite your employee handbook? 19:33 – Disparate impact and disparate treatment 24:02 – AI legislation and state actions 28:31 – State vs federal law: Where does authority really lie? 31:36 – Wrap up and thank you

DISCLAIMER: The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.

The U.S. and China begin the tariff walk-back dance that will last for 90 days, giving businesses time to make alternative plans. Gene Marks says those doing business with China will have to make plans because he doesn’t expect the volatility being created to clear up soon. Additional relief is coming for businesses who use independent contractors, as Gene explains that the USDOL will stop enforcing the 2024 Independent Contractor Rule. Owners can help employees in default with student loans by taking advantage of tax credits in place through 2025, and Gene shares how. Listen to the episode.

DISCLAIMER: The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.