Trump Labor Department proposes rule redefining franchise workplace violations

On 2026-04-21, the United States Department of Labor proposed a new nationwide rule clarifying joint employer status under federal wage and leave laws for contractors, franchisees, and regular employees. The proposal was announced in Washington, D.C. and aimed to establish a single standard under the Fair Labor Standards Act, the Family and Medical Leave Act, and the Migrant and Seasonal Agricultural Worker Protection Act.