This week, we discuss the most significant employment law developments of 2025, from non-competes to artificial intelligence (AI) governance.

Top Employment Law Changes of 2025

2025 reshaped the employment law landscape, bringing sweeping changes at both the federal and state levels. In this year-end special episode, Epstein Becker Green attorneys break down the most impactful developments for employers.

Key Issues for Employers:

• DEI rollbacks: Companies are scaling back diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, with reverse discrimination suits on the rise.
• AI governance: Federal deregulation has spurred state-level action, with AI now influencing workforce management at every level.
• Non-compete regulations: The Federal Trade Commission abandoned its proposed nationwide ban on non-compete agreements, while states such as Florida and Kansas enacted employer-friendly laws.

Employers face a rapidly evolving legal landscape, and understanding the nuances of 2025’s changes is essential for effective planning and compliance in 2026.