Policy in Motion: Federal Enforcement and State Legislative Trends Shaping the Workplace
May 2026
Key Insights
- Executive Orders are becoming increasingly operational. Federal agencies are continuing to issue proposed regulations and guidance that translate the 2025 Executive Orders into concrete policy requirements, barring legal challenges.
- Agency attention to employer inclusion practices is increasing. Activity from the FCC and EEOC reflects broader agency interest in inclusion programs, highlighting the importance of cross-functional preparedness.
- State legislation continues to create a complex compliance environment. New and pending legislation in Mississippi and Missouri signals a growing patchwork of state laws around gender identity.