Law new refers to legal services provided in ways that are different from what has been the practice of law in the past. This can include working with underserved communities, embracing technology and creating strategies that may not be traditionally part of the practice of law. This type of practice can help a firm gain traction in the market and generate new business. A well thought out plan for utilizing this concept can be a great way to grow the business without impacting other areas of practice that may be the firm’s primary focus.
Tobacco Retailer Bill
This bill would allow the City to revoke or deny tobacco retailer licenses, including renewals, that are based on poor compliance with state law or other violations of law. In addition, the bill would require that employees who work at tobacco retail establishments be trained to recognize the signs and symptoms of nicotine addiction and offer assistance to smokers. The bill also requires that the City notify smokers of free cessation programs available to them.
Employee Labor Laws
The City is taking steps to ensure that workers are treated fairly and with respect. This bill will prohibit the use of “on-call” scheduling for certain retail workers, which allows employers to require employees to be on call or available for shifts that are not immediately scheduled. The bill will also prohibit employers from cancelling, changing or adding shifts for on-call employees within 72 hours of the start of those shifts (except in limited cases).
Pay Transparency for Restaurants
This legislation would require restaurants to publicly disclose their average hourly wages in a manner that is comparable across all jobs. It is intended to increase transparency about pay and reduce barriers for women, minorities and low-wage workers seeking better wages.
Laundry Licensing
The City’s laundry licensing law dates back to the early 20th Century and is not fully up to date with current business practices. This bill will update the law to create a tiered system of licensure that better captures the varying activities carried out in the laundry industry and to establish requirements for cleanliness and safety.
This legislation will prohibit the sale of “biometric identifier technology,” or devices that can capture and store biometric information without a user’s consent. It will also establish a process for consumers to challenge and contest the validity of biometric data collected by such devices. In addition, the bill will require the Department of Consumer Affairs to update its website and other materials with this language and to provide clearer instructions for consumers about how to contact DCA to report such issues.