Court Finds Construction Company President Potentially Liable for Injuries to Worker Who Fell Off Roof

Florida’s Third District Court of Appeal reversed summary judgment entered in favor of the construction company’s president, finding that fact issues remained about whether the president ordered the company’s employee to place a tarp on a roof without also providing appropriate safety equipment.

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Florida's New Immigration Statute's Impacts Private Employers and Public Contractors and Subcontractors

The new statute, which generally takes effect July 1, 2023 imposes new requirements on private employers with more than 25 employees, and contractors and subcontractors engaged in public construction projects. Penalties for non-compliance can include losing your contractor’s license. The statute also restricts the use of certain types of driver’s licenses issued by other states, requires certain reporting by hospitals, and increases criminal penalties for human trafficking.

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Court Refuses to Enforce Non-Compete Agreement Against Contractor's Employee, Finding That Training Received Was Not a Legitimate Business Interest Deserving of Protection

While many contractors use non-compete agreements to try to keep employees from taking newly learned skills to a competitor, a new decision from Florida’s Fifth District Court of Appeal reveals that typical on-the-job training provided by a contractor, even in a specific trade, may not be a sufficient basis to enforce a non-compete agreement.

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Court Reverses Worker's Compensation Coverage for Employee Driving HVAC Company Vehicle From Work

A recent decision by the First District Court of Appeal reversing worker’s compensation coverage for injuries sustained by an employee while driving a company vehicle for an HVAC company illustrates the challenges in determining when work begins and ends for employees who are allowed to take company vehicles home. While this case focuses on worker’s compensation claims, the principles can apply to wage, hour, and other labor and employment issues faced by construction companies.

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