BW INSIGHTS

Slashing Costs? Don’t Let The Abandonment Of Your IP Portfolio Be “A Permanent Reminder Of A Temporary Feeling.”

Economic crisis, Jimmy Buffett and IP portfolios, here we go. I’ve spent the last two weeks talking with clients, colleagues and friends all over the world trying to wrap my head around the current situation we’re in as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. These conversations have confirmed the entire world is doing what we’re doing – staying home... Read More

DOL Provides Additional Information About the New Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA)

For anyone else trying to navigate the flurry of developments in the world of employment law, the Department of Labor Wage and Hour Division ("Department" or "DOL") has provided some additional information about the new Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA). As we outlined previously (see our Families First blog post), the FFCRA grants... Read More

Event Cancellations as a Result of COVID-19? Check Your Contracts!

With extreme social distancing requirements in place across Iowa and the United States, it is clear that COVID-19 will have an impact on our lives for weeks to come. Cities, schools, and universities alike have cancelled scheduled events — and more and more cancellations are still to come. But what if your organization has booked a venue, caterer,... Read More

Your Estate Plan To-Do List While Social Distancing

The COVID-19 pandemic is an unprecedented event that is changing the way we think about protecting our families, health and wealth. During this time, some of you may find yourself at home practicing social distancing in order to do your part in flattening “the curve”. This time at home may provide an opportunity to consider your estate plan. This... Read More

Employer Guidance Regarding COVID-19 Impact on Unemployment Benefits in Iowa

Do employees need to exhaust all vacation, sick leave, or personal time off (PTO) time prior to claiming unemployment benefits? Yes. If an employer offers vacation, sick leave, or PTO time to employees, the employees must exhaust those benefits prior to claiming unemployment benefits. Are employers required to lay off employees in order for the... Read More

2020 Legislative Session - Week 9

NOTE: This post has been updated to reflect new measures taken by the governor and lawmakers to address coronavirus-related issues as of late afternoon Monday, March 16. Legislative leadership has suspended the 2020 session for at least the next 30 days due to community spread of the novel coronavirus, COVID-19. House Speaker Pat Grassley (R-New... Read More