Chairman's Letter

Hello friends,

As we get deeper into fall, there is a mixed bag of economic news. Unemployment in Houston is trending up and job growth is trending down with August unemployment rates higher than state and national averages. Specifically, Houston saw a .21% increase in job growth, year to date in August. But the slowing of the U.S. labor market was part of the justification behind the Federal Reserve dropping the federal funds rate by a quarter point in September. We’re following these trends and considering effects to the local economy, as well as the legal impact on businesses.

In other news, the FTC has withdrawn its appeal in the non-compete ban case, but it does remain focused on non-competes for sectors such as healthcare. Texas has also weighed in with S.B. 1318 regarding healthcare non-competes. Get the details and implications in our Insight, FTC Withdraws Appeal in Non-Compete Ban Case: What This Means for Employers and Texas Businesses.

We’re excited to announce that for the sixth year in a row, we’ve been named one of the Houston Business Journal’s Best Places to Work. Based on anonymous feedback from employees, this award is a testament to our culture and the respect we have for each while serving clients.

And more celebrations are in order. Welcome new associates Vince Rollins, Ashley King, and Issa Cook, who we toasted recently for passing the bar exam. Congratulations!

BoyarMiller is here to help businesses navigate the current environment whether stormy or calm. Let us know how we can help you achieve your business goals.

Regards,