Category Archives: Articles

Would you post your salary on Facebook?

If I were a New Mexico state employee, crunched somewhere in the middle of the hierarchy (which I used to be), and I learned that my colleagues’ salaries were posted online, I would be tempted to take a peek. I … Continue reading

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Secret thoughts from the jury panel

            Forty people shuffle into the courtroom.  They take assigned seats, which correspond to their names on a diagram.  They look serious and a little intimidated. Voir dire begins – the question-and-answer process by which the biases and beliefs of … Continue reading

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Setting priorities in the workers’ comp law

There will probably be legislation on workers’ compensation next January.  The interesting question is whether any controversial – and important – issues will see the light of day. Workers’ compensation legislation often originates from the Workers’ Compensation Advisory Council, a … Continue reading

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Small business and deadbeat dads

Government leaders keep telling us the engine of economic growth is small business.  They can’t wait to do more to encourage small business.  Then they force  small businesses to jump through hoops with complicated rules and paperwork. Here is what … Continue reading

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Did you vote in the primary?

An old saying reminds us that it’s generally a bad idea to preach sermons on attendance. Since you are reading this column, you are – obviously – a reader of your local newspaper, which means you stay informed about your … Continue reading

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Hooray, We’re Not Wisconsin

On the same day as the New Mexico primary, Wisconsin voters voted not to recall their governor. Pundits have been busy analyzing the tea leaves about that election.  I’m considering the meaning for New Mexico.  I think simply:  thank goodness … Continue reading

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The two drug issues in workers’ compensation

Drug abuse is back in the news in workers’ compensation – with a new wrinkle. The Workers’ Compensation Administration is suggesting yet another attempt to change the statutory language relating to workers who get injured while using drugs or alcohol.  … Continue reading

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Primary elections are tough on voters and candidates

New Mexico’s primary election is among the last scheduled in the nation. On June 5, we will be joined by California, Montana, New Jersey and South Dakota in holding what is described as a “consolidated” presidential and state primary.  North … Continue reading

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Employment law and 21st century realities

The group of small business owners sat around a table talking earnestly about what helps and what hurts their efforts to stay in business and maintain the jobs they have previously created. During the current recession, said one gentleman, he … Continue reading

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The candidate at the door

It must be spring – spring in an election year.  The first candidate of the season has beat the hummingbirds to my front doorstep.  She is walking my neighborhood, petition and voter registration list in hand, asking for a signature. … Continue reading

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