News Type: Publications

Elizabeth Tosaris and Aaron Plesset bring their expertise to Insurance Journal with a timely analysis of California’s newly proposed Insurance Consumer Privacy Protection Act (SB 354). Their article unpacks how the bill could introduce a sweeping new regulatory layer to an industry already governed by a complex and robust privacy framework—and poses the critical question: is this meaningful reform or regulatory overreach? A must-read for anyone tracking the future of data privacy in the insurance space.

Devon Mills has written a sharp legal analysis for HR.com on a topic that’s fast becoming a flashpoint in boardrooms and HR departments nationwide. In “DEI Under Scrutiny: How Employers Can Adapt,” Devon unpacks the EEOC’s latest guidance, the legal risks facing DEI programs, and the nuanced interplay between federal oversight and state mandates. It’s essential reading for employers working to navigate this shifting legal and cultural landscape.

In a Law360 article that should resonate far beyond the sports world, Mindy Lewis and Natalie Manoogian break down the seismic impact of the National Women’s Soccer League’s $5M abuse settlement. The piece explores how the league’s agreement with state attorneys general sets a new precedent in workplace accountability—one that underscores a fundamental truth: in today’s environment, safeguarding talent isn’t optional, it’s essential. This is a must-read for employers navigating the intersection of compliance, culture, and reputational risk.

Lara Shortz has written an article just published by Reuters, sharing her perspective on what it takes to successfully lead a midsize law firm in today’s climate. In “Managing The Midsize Law Firm: Meeting Today’s Challenges Head-On,” Lara draws from her experience as M&R’s Office Managing Partner in L.A. to unpack the realities of running a midsize firm in today’s evolving legal landscape. From culture-building and mentorship to tech investment and DEI, she delivers a thoughtful take on leadership, purpose, and strategic growth.

Vince Loh has written about a potential game-changer for insurers—and businesses across sectors—in Insurance Journal. In an article titled, “The Supreme Court’s Upcoming Ruling on Class Certification: A Watershed Moment for Insurance and Business Litigation,” Vince takes a close look at Lab. Corp. of Am. Holdings v. Davis, a case now pending before the high court that could empower defendants to challenge costly suits if even a handful of plaintiffs lack tangible harm. Vince’s analysis is essential reading for insurers and corporate counsel monitoring the evolving class action landscape.

Mindy Lewis and Natalie Manoogian have co-authored an article just published by Law360 examining the evolving legal landscape confronting WNBA franchises amid allegations of workplace discrimination and retaliation. In the wake of the league’s unprecedented growth, global fandom, and high-profile endorsements, Mindy and Natalie highlight that success brings heightened scrutiny and unavoidable legal obligations. In the piece, they also make clear that employers across sports and entertainment must proactively address accommodations, anti-retaliation measures, and robust compliance practices.

Elizabeth Tosaris breaks down California’s property insurance crisis in the spring 2025 edition of the Federation of Regulatory Counsel (FORC) newsletter. In the piece, Elizabeth analyzes the state’s Sustainable Insurance Strategy—a sweeping regulatory effort aimed at stabilizing the market, expanding coverage, and addressing climate-driven volatility. With insurers retreating from high-risk areas and premiums surging, will these reforms be enough to protect homeowners and businesses while keeping insurers in the game? Read Elizabeth’s take on what’s ahead

In his most recent publication for the Daily Journal, Mehdi Sinaki explores a critical challenge facing Los Angeles: accelerating housing construction without sacrificing safety and accountability. Mehdi examines the city’s potential move toward allowing architects and engineers to self-certify building plans to streamline approvals—a response to delays exacerbated by this year’s wildfires and a severe housing shortage. In his article, Mehdi discusses how such a policy could significantly transform LA’s real estate landscape, highlighting the benefits for developers, investors, architects, and engineers, as well as addressing legitimate concerns about oversight and community impact.

Mindy Lewis’ new article in Law360 offers a thorough look at Pepperdine University’s recently filed trademark lawsuit against Netflix and Warner Bros., highlighting how the branding of collegiate athletics can collide with First Amendment rights in ways that extend well beyond Pepperdine’s Malibu campus. As Mindy explains, the court’s denial of Pepperdine’s TRO request lets Netflix’s Running Point—about a reformed party girl thrust into managing her family’s pro basketball team, the Waves—proceed for now. Still, the larger fight over the show’s team name, color scheme, and numerical references, which Pepperdine alleges intrude on its brand identity, remains front and center.

In a new article published by HR.com, Devon Mills takes a deep dive into the recent Mobley v. Workday ruling—revealing how AI-driven hiring tools can legally function as an employer’s agent, opening the door to unprecedented discrimination claims. With regulators tightening the reins and courts increasingly scrutinizing algorithmic bias, it’s critical for HR leaders to safeguard against liabilities by conducting bias audits, reinforcing vendor agreements, and incorporating human oversight into every AI-based decision.