The New Legal Risk Landscape: What HR Can’t Afford to Miss in 2026 - Part II

Andrew Turnbull spoke with HR.com about the rapidly evolving legal risks facing HR leaders, including the rise in whistleblower and retaliation claims, increased scrutiny of reduction in force (RIF) planning, and new worker-protection laws. He emphasized that "many whistleblower and anti-retaliation laws only require a showing that the employee’s protected activity was a contributing or motivating factor to the adverse employment action, rather than the reason for the action," which significantly increases risk for employers. Andrew also highlighted the importance of assembling the right cross-functional team early in RIF planning and monitoring emerging restrictions on repayment and “stay or pay” agreements. HR leaders are advised to proactively review policies and practices to mitigate these growing compliance risks.

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