Employment handbooks may not be exciting—but they remain one of the most effective tools employers have to prevent claims and defend against liability. In this episode of Ground Rules, Pam Howland and Doug Plass break down why 2026 is a critical year to revisit and update your handbook, even if you think yours is “recent enough.”

They discuss emerging and evolving issues employers should be addressing now, including AI use in the workplace, social media conduct, harassment and discrimination policies, the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA), infectious disease protocols, remote work expectations, confidentiality, and respectful workplace standards. The takeaway is simple: your handbook should be a living document that reflects how work actually happens today—and prepares you for the issues most likely to arise tomorrow.

*Ground Rules hosts and guests are not providing legal advice in this podcast. Do not act upon any of the information discussed in this podcast without first consulting a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction.*

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