On April 23, 2024, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) issued a Final Rule to ban post-employment non-compete agreements. This may have an enormous impact on your business because not only does it ban non-compete agreements into the future, it makes those that are currently in existence unenforceable. Furthermore, it requires that businesses that have such restrictions provide notice to employees that the non-compete agreements are no longer enforceable. What Is a Non-Compete Clause or Agreement? The Final Rule affects both standalone agreements or clauses within the agreement. The Final Rule defines a Non-Compete clause as “a term or condition of employment that prohibits a worker from, penalizes a worker for, or functions to prevent a worker from: (i) seeking or accepting work in the United States with a different person where such work would begin after the conclusion of the employment that includes the term or condition; or (ii) operating a business in the United States after the conclusion of the employment that includes the term or condition.” What Does a Typical Non-Compete Clause Look Like? They can be found in employment agreements; handbooks; or severance agreements. Typical language may look like this: Non-Competition. For a period of 1 year following the termination of Employee's employment with Employer (the "Non-Compete Period"), Employee shall not directly or indirectly engage in or prepare to engage in, or be employed by, any business that is engaging in or preparing to engage in any aspect of Employer's Business (as defined below) in any geographic area in which Employer conducted business during Employee’s employment. Employer's Business means the products and/or services offered by Employer during Employee's employment. What About Independent Contractor Agreements? The Final Rule affects independent contractor agreements as well. Are There Any Exceptions? A few small ones: The Ban does not affect non-profit corporations; The Ban does not affect non-competition agreements with the sale of a business; The Ban allows for existing non-competes to remain for senior executives only. A “Senior Executive” is an employee who makes more than $151,164 annually and who is in a policy-making position; The Ban does not apply to restrictions on competition while the employee works for the employer. When Does the Rule Become Effective? Based upon the current timeline, August 22, 2024. However, you should expect several lawsuits to be filed and those may delay the effective date. What Happens if I Don't Comply? Not only are the non-compete agreements unenforceable, but your business may also be subject to civil penalties. Furthermore, under Nevada Law, if an employer were to seek to enforce an unenforceable non-compete in court, the employer could be responsible for the employee’s attorney’s fees. Isn't Nevada Law Different? On paper, yes, Nevada Law does allow for certain non-compete agreements. However, language in the Final Rule states that the Federal law supersedes any state law that is inconsistent. What Do I Have To Do? Although the Final Rule is not yet enforceable, and we expect there will be legal challenges to it, employers will be required to provide written note to employees (and former employees) that the non-compete agreement is no longer enforceable. The notice must be provided before the Rule takes effect. What Does the Notice Have To Say? An employer must provide clear and conspicuous notice that identifies the person who entered into the non-compete. It must be in digital form or in writing. Oral notice is not effective. The only exemption is if the employer does not have a record of street address, email address or mobile telephone number. The FTC has provided model language which, if an employer provides it to current and former employees with non-compete agreements, will provide a safe harbor from penalties. The model language is:

Advertising is often one of the most overlooked strategies in a business plan but can be the component that can make or break your business.

The Henderson Chamber of Commerce serves as a beacon for businesses in the Henderson area, offering a platform for networking, growth and advocacy. In today’s fast-paced business world, staying connected and informed is not just an option; it’s a necessity. Attending the Chamber’s events is invaluable for businesses looking to thrive and expand their footprint in Southern Nevada. The Value of Networking Networking is the lifeblood of success for Las Vegas and Henderson businesses. Events organized by the Henderson Chamber of Commerce are designed to foster connections, facilitate partnerships and encourage collaboration. Imagine a local business that, through attending a single Chamber mixer, discovered a new vendor, leading to improved product quality and customer satisfaction. Such stories are not uncommon among Chamber members who actively participate in events, underscoring the potential of these gatherings to open new doors and opportunities. Educational Opportunities The landscape of business is ever-evolving, with new challenges and technologies emerging at a rapid pace. The Henderson Chamber of Commerce recognizes this and offers a plethora of educational events, from workshops to seminars, covering topics vital for modern business operations. These sessions not only provide valuable insights and strategies but also enable businesses to stay ahead of the curve, ensuring longevity and success in a competitive market.

Are you currently looking for a permanent location to operate your business? An owner-occupied commercial real estate loan can help you secure your business’ physical location. This type of loan is typically used for purchasing or renovating a property such as a store, office, or warehouse.

“When it comes to making an impact as a business leader, it really boils down to how well that person can tell their business story."

Unlock the secrets to successful networking for business in Henderson and Las Vegas, Nevada. Learn why networking is a long-term investment and how being a helpful connector can set the foundation for your business's growth.

SBA 504 loans are a popular option for small business owners who are looking to purchase real estate or equipment. These types of loans are offered by the U.S. Small Business Administration or SBA for small businesses and offered through approved Certified Development Companies (CDC).

When considering the dynamic landscape of the biopharmaceutical industry, most individuals tend to associate it primarily with physicians prescribing medications and pharmacists dispensing them.

In the dynamic landscape of digital marketing and engagement, businesses are on a perpetual quest for innovative tools that not only capture attention but also provide a memorable and immersive experience for their audience. Among the myriad technologies available, 360-degree video has emerged as a powerful and versatile tool. This technology, which captures a panoramic view in all directions simultaneously, is proving to be a game-changer for businesses seeking to enhance their marketing strategies and engage with their target audience in unprecedented ways. 1. Immersive Product Showcases The potential of 360-degree video in revolutionizing product showcases cannot be overstated. Traditional methods of presenting products through static images or standard videos often fall short in conveying the intricacies and nuances that make a product unique. Enter 360-degree video – a medium that allows businesses to break free from the limitations of two-dimensional presentations. Imagine a scenario where potential customers can virtually rotate, zoom in, and explore a product from every angle. This not only provides a more detailed and interactive experience but also instills a sense of confidence and connection with the product. To illustrate, consider a high-end fashion brand looking to launch its latest collection. Through 360-degree video, customers can virtually step into a fashion show, inspect each garment up close, and even witness how the fabrics and details respond to movement. This immersive approach not only elevates the shopping experience but also positions the brand as a pioneer in leveraging technology for consumer engagement.