Government Affairs Updates | November 2024

Legal Seminar

Association Counsel Allen Smith spearheaded a very successful OAAA Legal Seminar held in Washington, DC. The biennial event features legal experts, panel sessions, and speakers on leading industry topics. A particular thank you for Allen for his tireless coordination, planning, and execution of the event.

Courts – DOL

In July, the U.S. Dept. of Labor (DOL) raised the minimum income threshold for overtime pay, with a second increase scheduled for January 1, 2025. However, the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas recently issued a decision to vacate the DOL ruling, with application nationwide. The state of Texas and business organizations challenged the rule, and the Court held that DOL exceeded its regulatory authority.

DOT Secretary

Former Congressman Sean Duffy (WI) was selected as Secretary of the U.S. Dept. of Transportation (DOT) in the new Trump Administration. Duffy, from northwest Wisconsin, served in the U.S. House for nine years, leaving office in September 2019. Next year, Duffy’s nomination will be considered by the Senate Commerce Committee.

TSA – Facial Recognition

Twelve Senators wrote the Inspector General at the U.S. Dept. of Homeland Security expressing concerns with the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) continued use of facial recognition and biometric technology and plans to expand its use to over 430 airports. The bipartisan group of Senators asked for an evaluation on the effectiveness of the technology in screening and processing passengers, as well as how TSA is ensuring and safeguarding the privacy and personal information of passengers.