Varnum LLP

Michigan's Earned Sick Time Act (ESTA) is set to take effect on February 21, 2025, but proposed amendments could change its timing and structure. Varnum's Labor and Employment Team explains ongoing legislative debates and a potential delay. Stay informed on what this means for your business with the latest updates here: https://lnkd.in/gKem52Na

Varnum recently celebrated the grand opening of our newly relocated Naples, Florida office. It was a pleasure welcoming clients and community members into our new space. We look forward to continuing our growth and strengthening our service to the Florida market for years to come!

Varnum attorney Jordan Valentine has joined Siena Heights University's Board of Trustees. Jordan's appointment supports the University's goal of bringing fresh perspectives to the Board and helping to retain graduate talent in Michigan. Read more here: https://lnkd.in/gxvYfWGq

We are pleased to welcome Ali Bazzi to the firm's Corporate Practice Team. Based in our Birmingham office, Ali brings valuable experience advising on fund formation, mergers and acquisitions, joint ventures and corporate governance matters. Read more about Ali's arrival here: https://lnkd.in/gRyANTAT

Following a private letter ruling issued by the IRS, employers now have greater flexibility in making 401(k) contributions through cafeteria plans. Varnum employee benefits attorneys Charles Russman, John Arendshorst, Carolyn Sullivan and paralegal Kristy De Vos explore the implications for companies' benefit strategies. Read more here:

Varnum partner Brion Doyle represented Energy Michigan in its successful challenge before the Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals regarding the Michigan Public Service Commission's buy-local rule. The Sixth Circuit ruled that requiring energy providers to source 2.7% of their electricity locally could violate the Constitution and harm out-of-state energy suppliers. Read more about the decision here: https://lnkd.in/gXeqmXiQ

Amidst the further integration of AI in the insurance industry, partners John Rolecki and Bhashit (Sheek) Shah explore how Insurtech is reshaping everything from underwriting to fraud detection. They also discuss why understanding legal and regulatory factors is crucial for success. Read more here: https://lnkd.in/gCjFtqAX

In honor of National #WearRedDay, our sign is lit up in red to raise awareness about heart disease, the leading cause of death in the U.S. We're proud to stand with the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, The Heart Truth, the American Heart Association, @Go_Red_for_Women and other organizations working to promote heart health across the country.

Varnum recently partnered with the Grand Rapids Art Museum and Grow to host Women Connect, a networking event honoring new women leaders to the community. Thank you to Isabel Media Studios for capturing the connection, camaraderie and relationship building shared among more than 100 attendees! Congratulations to the honorees featured below, and to Tenisa Frye, who is not pictured!

Attention 1Ls! Join Varnum attorneys for a networking reception on Wednesday, February 26, from 5:30 - 7:00 PM at Zingerman's Greyline Room in Ann Arbor. This is a great opportunity to connect directly with and learn from firm members across several practice areas. RSVP by sending your resume and transcript to Lindsae Badgerow, Director of Legal Recruiting, recruiting@varnumlaw.com.