New Rule Proposed by the EPA to Regulate “Forever Chemicals” in Drinking Water

Under the Safe Drinking Water Act, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has the authority to regulate drinking water contaminants and require monitoring of public water systems. On March 14, 2023, the EPA announced the proposed National Primary Drinking Water Regulation (NPDWR) for a new federal standard to regulate PFAS in drinking water. PFAS are synthetic chemicals that can repel oil, water, and stains, which makes them useful for many products and industries. While there are currently state laws regulating PFAS in drinking water, the federal rule would be a huge step towards reducing exposure to these “forever chemicals” and preventing harm to public health. 

SEC Launches Largest Regulatory Blitz Since the Great Recession, and Wall Street Readies for War: Part Two of a Two Part Series

Welcome back! Part One of this two-part series discussed the regulatory background of private funds and the increasing importance of private funds industry regulation today, particularly for retired and retiring Americans. Part Two of the series takes a closer look at the final new rules implemented by Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Chair Gary Gensler. The Chair released the new rules in August affecting private funds advisors and investors. This article also discusses Wall Street’s response to the new regulations and ends with its possible implications for the industry.

Politicians Allowed to Serve Long After the Retirement Age

With the recent death of trailblazing Congresswoman Diane Feinstein, discussion of whether Congress members, and politicians in general, should be allowed to serve long after the retirement age are becoming even more prevalent. This conversation is important as people who hold opposite opinions have valid arguments that must be considered. On one hand, the United States has banned age discrimination in the workplace. On the other hand, keeping people who have declining physical or cognitive health may pose a safety concern for our nation, especially when we are discussing high ranking officials. Ultimately, we are a nation for the people and by the people. Thus, we decide whether we place age limitations on our elected officials or not by going to the polls.

Bribery: Here to Stay

Earlier this year, Morgan Lewis and Compliance Week conducted a survey on anti-bribery and corruption efforts by compliance professionals. The results of the survey showed that there are not enough resources to combat recent trends in bribery. Recently, there have been multiple million-dollar settlements regarding bribery claims. 

The I.R.S. is using AI to Crack Down on Tax Evasion

The Internal Revenue Service (I.R.S.) issued a press release on September 8, 2023, detailing how the agency plans to use at least part of the $80 million dollar allocation it received from the Inflation Reduction Act last year. I.R.S. Commissioner Danny Werfel plans to use the funds to make compliance enforcement efforts and tax evasion identification more effective and efficient. How does he plan to do this? The overwhelmed and perhaps overworked agency will be using artificial intelligence (AI) programs and features to expedite and assist with redundant processes as well as to audit parties that are too complicated or large for the I.R.S.’s current capabilities.

Neuropsychological Exams for Physicians: Good Practice or Discrimination?

Recent instances of politicians experiencing medical episodes in the public eye have sparked discussions regarding age limits for politicians. However, a parallel conversation is emerging about the healthcare professionals responsible for our well-being. About four years ago, a small number of health care institutions began implementing various forms of neuropsychological testing policies for older physicians. Since then – over the past few years – this practice has continued to grow and become increasingly controversial. The ongoing debate centers around determining the appropriate age to commence testing for physicians, the specific parameters to test for, and the ethics of mandating such testing. These questions remain subjects of ongoing debate, yet considering the rising demographic of physicians over the age of 60, there is a growing argument for integrating some form of neuropsychological examination.

Healthcare’s Red and Blue Pill: AI

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has gained widespread attention, often perceived as a buzzword. Recently, concerns about its potential dangers and issues with plagiarism have surfaced. However, AI holds immense promise for transforming industries reliant on data analysis and predictive algorithms, especially in healthcare. AI can significantly improve healthcare by aiding in diagnosis, optimizing patient outcomes, reducing costs, and saving time.

Sustainability and Environmental Regulations in the Food Industry

The food industry is crucial for ensuring food security and plays a significant role in the global economy. Yet, its environmental footprint often exacerbates the ecological crisis, nudging regulators and stakeholders towards more sustainable practices. Exploring the connection between sustainability initiatives and environmental regulations in the food industry unveils a complex narrative overflowing with progress and challenges. 

Melting Point: SEC’s Climate Disclosure Rule and Scope 3 Emissions

With every wildfire, catastrophic storm, and record-breaking heat, climate change is at our front doors. But what can help mitigate some of these effects? Regulations. Holding big polluters responsible for their carbon emissions is a crucial way to mitigate the effects of carbon emissions. Although many big companies voluntarily disclose some of their climate data, the pressure can come from investors, not the government. In an effort to enhance and standardize public companies’ climate data, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) proposed a controversial Climate-Disclosure Rule in April 2022. 

Microsoft is “Leveling Up”: Microsoft’s Acquisition of Activision

On January 18, 2022, Microsoft announced that it will be acquiring Activision Blizzard, one of the world’s largest gaming corporations. This will be Microsoft’s biggest acquisition in the company’s history. The acquisition is an all-cash purchase, with Microsoft paying $95 per Activision share, totaling to around $68.7 billion dollars. Microsoft and Activision had an original signing date to complete the merger agreement on July 18, 2023, but the companies pushed the date back to October 18 amid regulatory pushback. Although the merger is exciting news for many companies and individuals, other are less than enthused about the new development.