Act 111 Deadline Alert: Protecting Municipal Budgets Against Historic Healthcare Cost Increases
Pennsylvania municipalities facing Act 111 arbitration should act quickly to protect their budgets, preserve healthcare options, and meet critical response deadlines.
COLA for Retired Teachers, Police, and Firefighters Signed Into Law
Governor Josh Shapiro has signed Act 21 of 2026 into law, providing long-awaited cost-of-living adjustments (COLAs) for eligible retired teachers, police officers, firefighters, and state employees in Pennsylvania. Learn who qualifies, how the increases work, and when retirees can expect to receive the additional benefits.
DOJ Delays ADA Compliance Deadline for Websites and Mobile Apps
The U.S. Department of Justice has extended the ADA website accessibility compliance deadline for municipalities by one year. Here’s what local governments need to know about updated timelines, WCAG standards, and next steps.
Federal Court Dismisses Lawsuit Challenging EEOC’s Policy Change on Disparate Impact Claims
A federal court dismissed a challenge to the EEOC’s shift away from enforcing disparate impact claims, but employers may still face liability under federal discrimination laws.
Wage and Hour’s Seasonal Reminder: Are You Calculating Overtime Correctly?
A WHD Opinion Letter reminds employers that hazard pay and other premiums must be included in overtime calculations under the FLSA.
Don’t Miss the Act 111 Interest Arbitration Response Deadline
Municipalities with expiring police or firefighter contracts face strict Act 111 arbitration deadlines. Once a union demands arbitration, the municipality has only five days to respond with its arbitrator and Issues in Dispute. Preparing a strong list can protect management rights and improve efficiency.
Pennsylvania Commonwealth Court Clarifies Due Process Rights When a Police Officer is Placed on a “Do Not Call” List
The Pennsylvania Commonwealth Court ruled that police officers placed on “Do Not Call” lists have constitutionally protected due process rights. In Corbo v. Chester County, the court held that prosecutors cannot act as both judge and jury when making these decisions, and municipalities must provide officers with a fair opportunity to contest their inclusion.
Summer’s Here! A Guide for Employers Hiring Minors in Pennsylvania
Hiring minors during the summer months can be an excellent way to support the local community, offer meaningful early job experiences to young people, and introduce future professionals to the world of public service.
Pennsylvania Supreme Court Expected to Issue Two Opinions Considering Potential Changes to the Appellate Review Standards of Public Sector Grievance Arbitration Appeals
In 2025, the Pennsylvania Supreme Court is set to consider the appropriate standard for appeals of grievance arbitration awards for public sector employees.
Department of Justice Drops Lawsuits Regarding Disparate Impact Hiring Practices in Police and Fire Departments
Public employers should ensure that their hiring practices are “neutral” and consistent with business necessity and seek to mitigate any disparate impact in their hiring procedures.