Harrisburg, PA Business Formation and Planning Law Blog

Wages and hours are very complex things for many employers in Harrisburg to manage. This is not only due to logistical reasons, but simply because there are a number of federal laws and Pennsylvania state laws that govern these matters. While laws regarding compensation do not change too often, it can be difficult for employers to ensure that they are in compliance with state and federal regulations.

One federal law regarding compensation that has remained unchanged since 1938 may soon be reformed. This week, the U.S. House of Representatives approved a bill that would change the overtime rules stipulated in the Fair Labor Standards Act.

If you are an owner of a small or medium-sized business here in Pennsylvania and you are still feeling a bit cautious about the economy and your prospects, you are not alone. A survey conducted by PNC Financial Services Group Inc. of Pittsburgh found that the majority of small and medium-sized business owners in the state are more cautious than optimistic.

According to a report published earlier this month regarding the survey, about 43 percent of business owners who were surveyed in October said that they felt optimistic to moderately optimistic regarding the economy. In a more recent installment of the survey, 56 percent of business owners said that they felt that way. However, only 20 percent of business owners said that they are optimistic about their prospects in the coming six months.

As many business owners in Harrisburg are aware, trademarks are often an imperative part of running a business in the U.S. When companies aim to identify themselves and distinguish their products or services from those of others, companies often use trademark law to develop their brands and protect their identity.

A trademark dispute has recently arisen at the University of Pennsylvania. The university has sued a company called the Wharton Business Foundation, claiming that its use of the word "Wharton" in its branding might give consumers the false impression that its services are affiliated with the University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School. The case will hinge on this alleged trademark infringement.

As many people are aware, the rise of gas drilling in the Harrisburg area has led to some controversy as well as evolving labor regulations, environmental issues, reporting requirements, real estate disputes and business and contract issues. Those who are involved in the Marcellus Shale industry often need ongoing legal guidance to remain up-to-date on regulations and legal issues.

Two Pennsylvania newspapers recently obtained details about a legal dispute between a Fort Worth based natural gas producer and a Pennsylvania family involving air and water contamination.