SCOTUS Clarifies Standard in “Reverse Discrimination” Lawsuits

On June 5, 2025, the U.S. Supreme Court unanimously affirmed the legal burden of proof required to establish a “reverse discrimination” claim. In “reverse discrimination” cases, a member of a majority group alleges they were discriminated against based on their membership in that majority group.   The question before the Court was whether majority-group plaintiffs claiming […]

USCIS Releases Revised Form I-9

USCIS issued a revised Form I-9 on April 2, 2025 with an edition date of 01/20/25 and an expiration date of 05/31/2027. Although revisions are minor, it is important to use the approved and unexpired versions of the Form I-9.

New IRS Benefits Limits for 2025

Lake Effect HR & Law

Each year, the IRS sets new limits for ACA high deductible plans, employee benefits plans, flex plans, and retirement plans. Below is Lake Effect’s ready reference chart showing the Benefits Limits for the 2025 tax year.  Download Benefits Table   2024 2025 Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)     Healthcare FSA max election (per year) (incl. LTD […]

Supporting Employees’ Right to Vote

With November elections just a month away, it is a good time for employers to review relevant policies and legal obligations for employees who seek time off to vote or otherwise participate in the election process. Under Wisconsin law, upon the request of an employee, employers must provide employees who are eligible to vote in […]

Offer A Benefit Packet Employees Value

Today’s workforce is changing rapidly. There are currently five generations in the workforce, mental health benefits are in demand, and employees want benefits that are unique to their own needs. Annually, organizations work closely with their benefits broker to find insurance plans and rates that are within the organization’s budget and cost-effective for employees. Slight […]