The law is an important part of the public policy process. It defines how money is spent and how certain types of services are provided. Law also affects the treatment of survivors of violence against women and children.
In the US, courts will continue to address issues related to immigrants and human trafficking. Additionally, in 2020, the legal issue of diversity will likely be the focus of attention. This will involve health care providers, employers, and other entities.
Health care issues in 2020 will include the development of goals for reducing inequalities and increasing health care access. It will also involve the use of statistics in efforts to combat disparities. However, it is crucial to be careful when using these statistics in such initiatives. Some companies have been quick to see the advantages of using such data, but others are beginning to see the pitfalls.
Other issues for 2020 will involve criminal prosecutions. These include the investigation and arrest of people who commit crimes and the evaluation of conditions for those detained. There will also be a focus on immigration, voter registration, and voting.
Other issues to be addressed in 2020 will include human trafficking, climate change, and environmental protection. In terms of healthcare, the FTC will conduct a study of non-hospital provider mergers. If the study is successful, the commission may use its findings to initiate enforcement action.
The definition of “diversity” is evolving. While the term originally meant the same thing, it has expanded to cover other areas, such as inequality and medical conditions. One of the most prominent trends in this area is the rise of “microaggressions.”
Another key legal issue in 2020 will involve healthcare. The federal Executive Order 11246 requires health care employers to establish diversity goals. To comply with this mandate, the industry has to define what diversity is. Moreover, it must be ready to discuss and address any potential inequalities.
The law also provides an incentive for companies to take steps to prevent human trafficking. Under the law, employers are not permitted to retaliate against employees who report unsafe practices. Similarly, federal and state agencies are required to work together to prevent trafficking.
Meanwhile, a new regulation that became effective on January 1, 2021, requires hospitals to disclose their negotiated reimbursement rates with third-party payers. Although this regulation survived multiple legal challenges, its implementation in the next few years will likely present a dilemma for health care providers.
In the midst of all these developments, it is clear that the next several years will see a continued focus on the legal issues of law. These legal developments, whether affecting the United States or abroad, will impact our future. Whether we are looking at the federal government, a local jurisdiction, or a private sector organization, we will all have to face these issues and seek out solutions to them.
Finally, a key legal issue in 2020 will be the protection of LGBTQ rights. For more information on these issues, visit the Learn About the Law section on FindLaw.
