Did you know that Wednesday of this week was National Hot Dog Day? A guilty pleasure day of celebration for me for sure. If that weren’t enough excitement, National Ice Cream Day arrives on the 19th, followed by National Junk Food Day, National Refreshment Day, National Tequila Day, and National Wine and Cheese Day all before the month is over.
In other words, the calendar has officially entered its “treat yourself” era.
And honestly, maybe that’s not such a bad thing. Summer moves quickly, and it’s easy to fly from one project, deadline, or meeting to the next without taking a moment to appreciate what we’ve accomplished or the people who helped make it happen. So, before we dive into this week’s topic, let’s raise a metaphorical hot dog (or ice cream cone, or beverage of choice) to progress, partnerships, and a little bit of summer fun.
This week we’re taking a closer look at three federal policy developments that should be of interest to TCIA members. None creates immediate new obligations for most employers, but each provides insight into issues that continue to receive attention from courts, federal agencies, and lawmakers. As always, understanding where policy discussions are headed can help tree care businesses stay informed and prepared for what may come next. Three developments this week stood out for employers: TPS, EEO-1 reporting, and heat-safety standards.
Temporary Protected Status (TPS)
What happened:
A recent Supreme Court decision gives the Department of Homeland Security broader authority to move forward with TPS terminations while legal challenges continue. DHS is now proceeding with TPS terminations for several countries, including Haiti, Syria, Myanmar, Ethiopia, Somalia, South Sudan, and Yemen.
Why it matters:
Employers with workers whose employment authorization is tied to TPS may face changing deadlines and work authorization requirements. Some TPS-related Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) could expire as early as this month.
Key member takeaway:
Review workforce records, monitor USCIS guidance, and ensure any required Form I-9 reverifications are completed on time.
EEOC Proposes Ending EEO-1 Reporting
What happened:
The EEOC has proposed eliminating the federal EEO-1 reporting requirement, along with several related workforce demographic reporting programs.
Why it matters:
If finalized, covered employers would no longer need to submit annual EEO-1 reports. However, federal anti-discrimination laws would remain fully in effect.
Key member takeaway:
The proposal could reduce reporting burdens, but it does not change employers’ equal employment opportunity obligations. State reporting requirements may still apply.
Heat Safety Remains a Federal Priority
What happened:
A recently introduced bill affecting the H-2A agricultural worker program would require participating employers to implement written heat illness prevention plans. At the same time, OSHA continues developing its nationwide Heat Injury and Illness Prevention Rule.
Why it matters:
The bill currently would not apply to tree care companies, but it mirrors many of the requirements being considered by OSHA, including written plans, training, water and shade access, breaks, and emergency response procedures.
Key member takeaway:
No new requirements have been imposed on tree care employers, but policymakers continue moving toward more formal heat-safety expectations. Heat illness prevention remains an active issue in both Congress and OSHA’s regulatory agenda.
Bottom Line
None of these developments creates immediate new obligations for most TCIA members. The central message is that the regulatory environment remains active and ongoing discussions around workforce authorization, employer reporting, and workplace safety indicate that these areas are likely to remain active policy priorities in the months ahead. Because federal policies continue moving forward despite changes in leadership or political priorities, TCIA Advocacy will continue monitoring developments and providing updates to help members prepare for changes that could affect their businesses.
Have a great weekend and be sure to celebrate the National Food and Beverage Days of your choice this month!
