Insights

Baseball Owners Still ‘Reserving’ Right to Underpay Minor Leaguers

During spring training last year, this column detailed a class-action suit filed by three ex-minor leaguers alleging Major League Baseball paid them less than fast-food workers.  Unrepresented by a labor union, minor leaguers toil 50 to 70 hours per week through a five-month season for subminimum wage with no overtime and no compensation during spring training, instructional leagues or winter leagues.

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The Labor and Employment Report: New Illinois Laws Require Changes to Employer Practices

Two new employment statutes recently passed by the Illinois state legislature will substantially change how when and how employers conduct criminal background checks of job applicants and address the needs of pregnant employees.  As the January 1, 2015 effective date of these statutes approaches, Illinois employers should ensure that their policies and practices are in compliance with each law.

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Hip-hop Band and Fans Fight Gang Label

Army Cpl. Robert Hellin served tours in Iraq, Afghanistan and Korea. He also happens to be a Juggalo, or follower of the hardcore hip‐hop band Insane Clown Posse. Hellin, who sports several visible Posse tattoos, worries the FBI’s characterization of Juggalos as a “hybrid gang” subjects him to military discipline, including involuntary discharge.

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