|
|
March 2026
|
|
|
Alabama Legislative Developments in the 2026 Session - Update as of 3/9/26The 2026 Alabama Legislative Session began on January 13, 2026. As of March [9], 2026, Alabama House Representatives and Senators have introduced over 900 bills to committees and chamber floors. Approximately 2/3 of the way through the session, over 50 bills have been enacted into law, over 40 bills are awaiting the Governor’s signature, and 18 Constitutional amendments are awaiting referendum in November. With this legislative session being held against the backdrop of an election year, state lawmakers are eager to champion their priorities ahead of upcoming campaigns. Alabama companies and employers should pay close attention to the compliance obligations and economic impacts this legislative session may bring. Legislators have introduced targeted regulatory mandates that could directly affect how employers operate, such as employee leave and accommodation shifts, technology regulation, and industry modernization. Further, financial bills creating tax credits, liquidation strategies, and employee benefit plans may affect the incentives of state employers and the Alabama economy. Employers who understand the impact of ongoing bills can better prepare their response if such bills are enacted. |
|
|
|
|
Are You Ready for Your Next Workers’ Comp Audit?Avoid surprises, reduce risk, and protect your bottom line by joining SAFE for Navigating the Workers’ Compensation Audit Process, a practical, employer-focused workshop designed to help you prepare with confidence. ✅ Understand how audits work
✅ Avoid common (and costly) mistakes
✅ Learn proven compliance best practices
✅ Share insights with fellow employers 📅 April 14 – Montgomery/Prattville
📅 Feb. 25 – Mobile/Daphne
⏰ 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM (Lunch included) This workshop is offered as a member benefit and provides practical guidance along with peer discussion and real-world employer insights. |
|
|
|
|
Conflict Resolution Strategies That Increase Employee Trust & Reduce RiskSome workplace conflicts are inevitable, but how they’re handled can be the difference between building employee trust and engagement and a drop in productivity from a tense work environment. Many managers find themselves relying on a “command and control” approach out of habit, which may work in the short term but can make employees feel disconnected over time. The key is learning practical conflict resolution strategies that promote open communication and psychological safety. When handled thoughtfully, conflicts become opportunities to strengthen relationships and build a more trusting, productive workplace. Before exploring strategies to resolve workplace conflicts, it’s important to understand what actually sparks them in the first place. So, what causes interpersonal conflict at work? |
|
|
Use your member benefit and call or email the Seay HR Hotline today, 888-245-6272 or admin@seay.us. |
|
|
HIPAA Enforcement Surges - The Importance of Security Risk AnalysisThe U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' Office for Civil Rights (OCR) continues HIPAA enforcement actions, with settlements and penalties now exceeding $8 million. This marks what appears to be the most active year for HIPAA enforcement in recent history, sending a clear message to healthcare providers and their business associates: compliance is not optional. The Latest Settlements from 2025 September 30, 2025, Cadia Healthcare Facilities agreed to a settlement, which included a $182,000 fine for violations of the HIPAA Privacy and Breach Notification Rules. The breach involved posting 150+ patient "success stories" (including names, photos, and medical details) on their website without proper authorization. In addition to the $182,000 fine, Cadia agreed to a two-year corrective action plan, which includes updating HIPAA policies, training staff (specifically marketing personnel), and notifying affected patients. August 18, 2025, BST & Co. CPAs, LLP agreed to pay $175,000 and implement a comprehensive corrective action plan after failing to conduct an adequate security risk analysis. The firm experienced a ransomware attack in December 2019 that compromised the protected health information of approximately 170,000 individuals. This enforcement action represents OCR's 15th ransomware-related enforcement action and the 10th under its dedicated Risk Analysis Initiative. According to OCR Director Paula M. Stannard, "A HIPAA risk analysis is essential for identifying where ePHI is stored and what security measures are needed to protect it." |
|
|
Members have access to a Safety Consulting firm for OSHA related regulations and compliance issues. Use your member benefit, contact Safelink Consulting directly. Click here for more information or to schedule a call. |
|
|
|
|
