Solis Confirmed as Secretary of Labor
Hilda Solis has been confirmed by the U.S. Senate to be President Obama’s Secretary of Labor. Her confirmation had been delayed by Republicans in the Senate who faulted her for not answering questions (about the Employee Free Choice Act, in particular) during her confirmation hearing and for her close ties to organized labor. Various business groups had also weighed in against Solis. And she had to answer questions (after the hearing) about her husband’s tax problems.
It was nonetheless just a matter of time that her nomination would be confirmed. She was overwhelmingly approved, with many Republicans joining Democrats with their support.
For a previous post thoroughly examining Solis’ background, click here. For another post discussing her confirmation hearing, click here.
Secretary Solis is decidedly pro-union, and the Department of Labor, under her leadership, will be quite different than it has been for the last eight years. Though our economic crisis may slow actions by Solis that would be viewed as anti-business, there’s little question that the DOL will become more aggressive in its investigative and enforcement activities.
About Chris Parker
Chris Parker's practice focuses on the representation and counseling of companies in matters pertaining to the workplace and the protection of their intellectual property and trade secrets. In addition to serving as an advocate for clients, Mr. Parker is also trained as a mediator and frequently serves as a third-party neutral.
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About Jimmy Daniel
Jimmy Daniel provides counseling to businesses of all sizes related to the employment relationship. He assists in the drafting of employment agreements, policies, and handbooks, as well as provides guidance related to compliance with federal, state, and local legislation such as the Fair Labor Standards Act and the Family and Medical Leave Act.
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About Larry Bridgesmith
While serving in an Of Counsel relationship with the firm, Mr. Bridgesmith also serves as the Executive Director at the Institute for Conflict Resolution at Lipscomb University and as an officer and principal in Strategic Resolutions Group, LLC. In these roles, Mr. Bridgesmith brings over 30 years of legal experience in dispute resolution and innovative workplace strategies to clients, students and business entities alike.
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