Weiss Serota Helfman Cole + Bierman https://www.wsh-law.com At the Crossroads of Business, Government & the Law Fri, 04 Apr 2025 15:56:03 +0000 en-US hourly 1 Client Alert: Establishing U.S. Production Lines and Opportunities for Foreign Manufacturers https://www.wsh-law.com/news-updates/client-alert-establishing-u-s-production-lines-and-opportunities-for-foreign-manufacturers/#utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss Thu, 03 Apr 2025 20:01:44 +0000 https://www.wsh-law.com/?p=11842 The latest round of tariffs introduced by the Trump administration on April 2, 2025, are expected to significantly impact the competitiveness of foreign goods in the U.S. market. In order to reduce the impact of these tariffs, some foreign manufacturers may be considering switching some of their production to the United States by partnering with […]

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The latest round of tariffs introduced by the Trump administration on April 2, 2025, are expected to significantly impact the competitiveness of foreign goods in the U.S. market. In order to reduce the impact of these tariffs, some foreign manufacturers may be considering switching some of their production to the United States by partnering with local manufacturing providers.

Our firm has experience assisting businesses in establishing production lines in the U.S. by entering into manufacturing supply agreements with local manufacturers. These supply chain agreements require careful consideration of the parties’ respective obligations, particularly concerning expected volumes, warranties, and logistics management. These agreements should also include safeguards to protect the foreign manufacturer’s intellectual property rights and establish quality standards consistent with those normally employed in their country of origin. By leveraging our experience, foreign manufacturers can ensure a smooth transition of their production operations.

For manufacturers of products that are incorporated into construction projects, establishing production lines in the U.S. offers additional benefits beyond potential tariff savings. It may also make products eligible for selection in federally-funded construction projects. Two key frameworks to consider are the Buy American Act (BAA) and the Buy America regulations.

The Buy American Act (BAA) applies to direct federal procurement, such as contracts for federal building construction. Under the BAA, products must be manufactured in the U.S., with at least 55% of the cost of components sourced domestically. It is important to note that these thresholds may vary based on recent policy changes. 

Buy America regulations are more restrictive and apply to federally funded transportation projects, such as highways and rail systems. Under the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) and Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) rules, all steel, iron, and manufactured products must be produced in the U.S. without reliance on a component cost threshold. This stringent requirement ensures that transportation projects funded by the federal government prioritize domestic production.

Foreign manufacturers would typically learn of these requirements if their goods are being specified by a U.S. architect or contractor that is handling the procurement for a project with federal funding. Typically, the manufacturer would be required to provide a certificate of compliance with the project’s country of origin requirements.

In conclusion, the tariffs introduced by the Trump administration present challenges for foreign manufacturers, but they also create opportunities for those willing to adapt their production strategies. By partnering with local manufacturing providers, foreign manufacturers can seek ways to stay competitive in the U.S. market. Compliance with regulations such as the Buy American Act and Buy America can provide access to federally-funded projects. 

Our firm has assisted foreign businesses in navigating these complexities and establishing successful production lines in the U.S.

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Elizabeth Coppolecchia Featured in WPLG Local 10 Segment “My Future, My Choice” https://www.wsh-law.com/news-updates/elizabeth-coppolecchia-featured-in-wplg-local-10-segment-my-future-my-choice/#utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss Thu, 03 Apr 2025 15:54:49 +0000 https://www.wsh-law.com/?p=11839 WSHC+B partner Elizabeth Coppolecchia was recently featured in Local 10’s “My Future, My Choice” segment for her participation in a panel at the Business & Economic Development Luncheon in Miami Gardens. Liz joined three other professionals for an open discussion on workplace dynamics and shared reflections from her career in law. Moderated by Local 10’s […]

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WSHC+B partner Elizabeth Coppolecchia was recently featured in Local 10’s “My Future, My Choice” segment for her participation in a panel at the Business & Economic Development Luncheon in Miami Gardens.

Liz joined three other professionals for an open discussion on workplace dynamics and shared reflections from her career in law. Moderated by Local 10’s Alex Finnie and spearheaded by Councilwoman Linda Julien in honor of Women’s History Month, the panel highlighted women breaking barriers in non-traditional fields.

Liz represents private and governmental entities in various construction-related transactions and construction defect litigation. She serves on the Board of Directors of Miami’s Arts and Business Council and on the Perez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) Contemporaries Steering Committee.

Watch Local 10’s coverage here: https://www.local10.com/news/local/2025/03/29/my-future-my-choice-local-10s-alex-finnie-moderates-event-celebrating-women-working-in-non-traditional-fields?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss

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Women’s History Month Client Highlight: Dr. Jacqueline Del Rosario https://www.wsh-law.com/news-updates/womens-history-month-client-highlight-dr-jacqueline-del-rosario/#utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss Mon, 24 Mar 2025 16:30:27 +0000 https://www.wsh-law.com/?p=11827 At Weiss Serota Helfman Cole + Bierman, we are proud to celebrate Women’s History Month by recognizing our incredible clients—women who lead, inspire, and drive meaningful change. This month, we recognize Dr. Jacqueline Del Rosario, a nationally respected voice in education, personal development, and relationship coaching. Known as America’s Relationship Coach, Dr. Del Rosario has […]

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At Weiss Serota Helfman Cole + Bierman, we are proud to celebrate Women’s History Month by recognizing our incredible clients—women who lead, inspire, and drive meaningful change. This month, we recognize Dr. Jacqueline Del Rosario, a nationally respected voice in education, personal development, and relationship coaching.

Known as America’s Relationship Coach, Dr. Del Rosario has spent more than three decades helping individuals and families navigate challenges, build resilience, and create stronger relationships. As the CEO of Empowerment Concepts, Inc., and the founder of ReCapturing the Vision International (RTV), Dr. Del Rosario has led her nonprofit to secure over $30 million in funding, providing underserved communities with access to critical educational programs and resources. Her work has directly impacted 50+ communities and 32,000 families nationwide.

Dr. Del Rosario has played a key role in shaping national education policy, serving on The White House Advisory Panel and testifying before Congress on the importance of whole-child education. She has developed 12 curricula used in schools across the country, helping students build resilience, emotional intelligence, and life skills. Her commitment to breaking the generational cycles that affect low-income communities has helped make RTV a globally recognized nonprofit.

In addition to her work in education, Dr. Del Rosario is a renowned relationship coach who has personally counseled over 4,000 couples, guiding them through challenges and helping them build strong, lasting relationships. Her two latest initiatives, Trauma Treatment and Relationship Keys, provide individuals with transformative tools for healing and personal growth.

A sought-after speaker and media expert, Dr. Del Rosario’s insights have been featured on Fox, NBC, ABC, CNN, Bravo, and Hallmark, as well as in publications like People, Bloomberg, Newsweek, The Huffington Post, Brides, and Parade.

In celebration of #WomensHistoryMonth, we honor Dr. Jacqueline Del Rosario for her dedication to helping her community by advocating for education reform and empowering individuals and families to build stronger, healthier relationships.

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Women’s History Month Client Highlight: Rashmi Airan https://www.wsh-law.com/news-updates/womens-history-month-client-highlight-rashmi-airan/#utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss Wed, 19 Mar 2025 14:14:36 +0000 https://www.wsh-law.com/?p=11824 At Weiss Serota Helfman Cole + Bierman, we are proud to celebrate Women’s History Month by recognizing the extraordinary women we have the honor of calling our clients. These women exemplify strength, transformation, and leadership in their fields. This month, we spotlight Rashmi Airan, an Ivy League-educated attorney turned transformation expert, whose work in ethical […]

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At Weiss Serota Helfman Cole + Bierman, we are proud to celebrate Women’s History Month by recognizing the extraordinary women we have the honor of calling our clients. These women exemplify strength, transformation, and leadership in their fields. This month, we spotlight Rashmi Airan, an Ivy League-educated attorney turned transformation expert, whose work in ethical leadership helps guide top global companies. 

A first-generation Indian American, Rashmi Airan graduated with honors from Columbia Law School and embarked on a successful legal career, gaining valuable experience at major corporations. Her expertise in law and business eventually led her to launch her own legal practice, where she worked with clients across multiple sectors. Today, Rashmi partners with leading companies, financial services firms, CPAs, lawyers, real estate professionals, and leadership groups to help organizations tackle ethical challenges and cultivate values-driven cultures.

Rashmi’s journey is one of profound transformation. While navigating the pressures of building a successful career, she found herself blindsided by a client whose unethical actions ultimately led her to make a decision that resulted in a federal prison sentence. Despite the unintended consequences, Rashmi converted this humbling experience into a turning point. She emerged with a renewed sense of purpose, gaining invaluable personal growth and a deep commitment to helping others navigate ethical challenges in their own careers.

Now an internationally recognized keynote speaker and TEDx presenter, Rashmi uses her story to ignite conversations around ethics, decision-making, and organizational culture. With over thirty years of real-world experience in finance, business, and law, she is a sought-after consultant and speaker, bringing valuable insights to leaders facing complex challenges. Rashmi has collaborated with global brands like Coca-Cola, Cardinal Health, Merck, Comcast, Sotheby’s, and Hershey’s, and her expertise is bolstered by years of research in behavioral psychology.

Her transformative journey and ability to turn adversity into strength have earned her recognition in major outlets such as the Washington Post and Wall Street Journal. Additionally, Deloitte has highlighted the relatability and power of her story, which spans from an Ivy League education to a deeply personal transformation that reshaped her approach to leadership.

Beyond her professional impact, Rashmi is deeply committed to giving back to the community. She serves on the Board of Directors for the Overtown Youth Center/Alonzo Mourning Foundation and as an Ambassador for The Key Clubhouse, continuing her mission to empower others.

In honor of #WomensHistoryMonth, we celebrate Rashmi Airan for her dedication to ethical leadership and her ability to transform organizations and empower their employees through her personal journey.

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Women’s History Month Client Highlight: Giulia Fantacci https://www.wsh-law.com/news-updates/womens-history-month-client-highlight-giulia-fantacci/#utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss Wed, 12 Mar 2025 14:52:56 +0000 https://www.wsh-law.com/?p=11784 At Weiss Serota Helfman Cole + Bierman, we are proud to celebrate Women’s History Month by recognizing the achievements of some of the incredible women we get to call our clients who are exemplifying strength, passion, and innovation in their fields. This month, we spotlight Giulia (“Julia”) Fantacci, a passionate human rights advocate and the […]

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At Weiss Serota Helfman Cole + Bierman, we are proud to celebrate Women’s History Month by recognizing the achievements of some of the incredible women we get to call our clients who are exemplifying strength, passion, and innovation in their fields. This month, we spotlight Giulia (“Julia”) Fantacci, a passionate human rights advocate and the CEO & Founder of GF Immigration Law (GFI) – Abogada Julia, one of the largest humanitarian immigration law firms in the U.S.

Giulia has dedicated her career to fighting for the undocumented community, ensuring those who have been exploited in their work or by the people who brought them to the country, as well as victims of domestic violence, receive the legal support they deserve. Her entrepreneurial spirit and client-centered approach have fueled GFI’s rapid expansion, establishing it as a leader in humanitarian immigration law within just a few years.

GFI is built on the belief that every immigrant deserves a chance at a better future. Through pioneering legal strategies for T visas, U visas, VAWA, the firm has helped thousands of immigrants obtain legal status, allowing them to live and work without fear.

Beyond legal advocacy, Giulia and her team are dedicated to community education, pro bono support, and policy advocacy. Through social media outreach, partnerships, and high-impact legal work, GFI has become more than just a law firm—it’s a movement for justice and a beacon of hope for immigrants across the U.S.

This #WomensHistoryMonth, we honor Giulia’s resilience, advocacy, and dedication to justice. Her work not only transforms lives but also drives meaningful change in immigration law.

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Women’s History Month Client Highlight: Dr. Anay Abraham https://www.wsh-law.com/news-updates/womens_history_anay_abraham/#utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss Mon, 10 Mar 2025 15:58:53 +0000 https://www.wsh-law.com/?p=11780 At Weiss Serota Helfman Cole + Bierman, we are proud to celebrate Women’s History Month by recognizing the achievements of some of the incredible women we get to call our clients who are exemplifying strength, passion, and innovation in their fields. This month, we spotlight Dr. Anay M. Abraham, a dedicated advocate for educational opportunity […]

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At Weiss Serota Helfman Cole + Bierman, we are proud to celebrate Women’s History Month by recognizing the achievements of some of the incredible women we get to call our clients who are exemplifying strength, passion, and innovation in their fields. This month, we spotlight Dr. Anay M. Abraham, a dedicated advocate for educational opportunity and community development, with a focus on affordable housing.

With over 25 years of experience, Dr. Abraham has dedicated her career to improving communities and advocating for students from diverse backgrounds. Her extensive experience includes executive advisory roles at Springboard Education in America, where she led initiatives in strategic planning, organizational development, and new business growth. Dr. Abraham also played a key role in the success of The SEED Public Boarding Charter School of Miami, and most recently, as Founding Executive Director of Casa Familia, Inc.—the first affordable housing community for individuals with special needs.

Dr. Abraham ’s leadership has been instrumental in creating opportunities for marginalized communities, particularly in education and affordable housing. Her work has helped bridge gaps in K-12 education and provided a supportive environment for those with special needs.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Dr. Abraham serves on several boards, including as a Trustee for Miami Dade College, and as a Member of the Affordable Housing Advisory Board. Her commitment to equity, access, and opportunity continues to inspire and create lasting change.

This Women’s History Month, we celebrate Dr. Abraham ’s unwavering dedication to building stronger, more inclusive communities and ensuring that every individual has the opportunity to reach their full potential.

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Client Alert: Updated List of Prohibited Applications on Government Devices https://www.wsh-law.com/news-updates/client-alert-updated-list-of-prohibited-applications-on-government-devices/#utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss Tue, 04 Mar 2025 15:44:25 +0000 https://www.wsh-law.com/?p=11770 On January 29, 2025, the Department of Management Services released the attached updated list of applications prohibited under Section 112.22, Florida Statutes. The section, entitled “Use of applications from foreign countries of concern prohibited,” outlines several key points regarding the restrictions and procedures related to the use of certain internet applications by public employers and […]

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On January 29, 2025, the Department of Management Services released the attached updated list of applications prohibited under Section 112.22, Florida Statutes. The section, entitled “Use of applications from foreign countries of concern prohibited,” outlines several key points regarding the restrictions and procedures related to the use of certain internet applications by public employers and employees. The statute defines key terms such as “Department,” referring to the Department of Management Services, and “Foreign country of concern,” which includes China, Russia, Iran, North Korea, Cuba, Venezuela, and Syria, as well as agencies or entities under their control. Public employers are required to block prohibited applications from accessing their networks and devices, and employees are prohibited from downloading or accessing these applications on government-issued devices. The statute provides certain exceptions for law enforcement officers if the use of a prohibited application is necessary for public safety, and public employers can request waivers for designated employees to use these applications. Employees must remove any prohibited applications from government-issued devices within 15 days of an updated list being published by the Department. The Department is responsible for compiling and updating a list of prohibited applications, establishing procedures for granting waivers, and adopting emergency rules to implement the section.

Blocking and Restricting Access:

  • CIO/CTO/IT Professionals: Take note to block all prohibited applications from public access (i.e., WI-FI) on any network and virtual private network that the agency owns, operates, or maintains.

For more information, please contact your WSHC+B legal counsel. 

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Gov. DeSantis announces Florida’s New Government Efficiency Task Force: What It Means for Governmental Agencies and Government-Funded Entities https://www.wsh-law.com/news-updates/gov-desantis-announces-floridas-new-government-efficiency-task-force-what-it-means-for-governmental-agencies/#utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss Fri, 28 Feb 2025 17:05:15 +0000 https://www.wsh-law.com/?p=11756 On February 24, Governor Ron DeSantis signed an executive order launching the Florida DOGE Task Force, a state-level initiative aimed at eliminating inefficiencies and reducing costs across governmental agencies and potentially government-funded private entities, vendors, partners, and contractors. This task force will operate for one year, using artificial intelligence to conduct audits and recommend budget cuts. These […]

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On February 24, Governor Ron DeSantis signed an executive order launching the Florida DOGE Task Force, a state-level initiative aimed at eliminating inefficiencies and reducing costs across governmental agencies and potentially government-funded private entities, vendors, partners, and contractors. This task force will operate for one year, using artificial intelligence to conduct audits and recommend budget cuts.

These entities will likely face increased scrutiny and be required to comply with audit findings and implement recommended changes.  WSHC+B advises local governments and government-funded entities undergoing government investigations and audits, providing guidance to navigate compliance requirements and regulatory reviews. Our team has extensive experience advising public sector clients on audit response strategies and risk management.

Related Attorneys:

Click here to read the official statement and here to read a New York Times article about the Florida DOGE Task Force.

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WSHC+B Partner Brett Schneider Appointed to Palm Beach County Personnel Appeals Board https://www.wsh-law.com/news-updates/wshcb-partner-brett-schneider-appointed-to-palm-beach-county-personnel-appeals-board/#utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss Tue, 25 Feb 2025 15:52:43 +0000 https://www.wsh-law.com/?p=11739 WSHC+B is pleased to announce that the Managing Director of the firm’s Boca Raton office and Chair of its Labor and Employment Division, Brett Schneider, has been appointed to the Palm Beach County Personnel Appeals Board. The Palm Beach County Personnel Appeals Board is responsible for adjudicating appeals from permanent status, non-bargaining unit employees regarding […]

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WSHC+B is pleased to announce that the Managing Director of the firm’s Boca Raton office and Chair of its Labor and Employment Division, Brett Schneider, has been appointed to the Palm Beach County Personnel Appeals Board.

The Palm Beach County Personnel Appeals Board is responsible for adjudicating appeals from permanent

status, non-bargaining unit employees regarding discharges and layoffs. Upon an employee’s request, the Board conducts hearings and renders final, binding decisions.

As a Florida Bar Board Certified attorney in Labor and Employment Law, Brett helps public and private sector employers resolve issues in a prompt and efficient manner. Brett is a frequent speaker on labor and employment law and human resources matters and works closely with employers to ensure that their practices comply with federal, state, and local laws.

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Black History Month Client Highlight: Trabian Shorters https://www.wsh-law.com/news-updates/black-history-month-client-highlight-trabian-shorters/#utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss Mon, 24 Feb 2025 16:57:30 +0000 https://www.wsh-law.com/?p=11736 Weiss Serota Helfman Cole + Bierman is proud to celebrate Black History Month by recognizing the achievements of our Black professional clients who are transforming industries and communities. This month, we are honored to spotlight Trabian Shorters, a social entrepreneur and founder of BMe Community, whose innovative leadership and transformative ideas are reshaping philanthropy in […]

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Weiss Serota Helfman Cole + Bierman is proud to celebrate Black History Month by recognizing the achievements of our Black professional clients who are transforming industries and communities. This month, we are honored to spotlight Trabian Shorters, a social entrepreneur and founder of BMe Community, whose innovative leadership and transformative ideas are reshaping philanthropy in businesses and organizations, driving social equity and positive change.

As the founder of BMe Community, Trabian developed an award-winning network of leaders and innovators focused on empowering Black people and all individuals through his groundbreaking Asset-Framing® program. This powerful framework teaches organizations to define people by their aspirations, not their challenges, fostering a more inclusive and equitable approach to social change. BMe’s mission emphasizes building freedom and equity through the principles of Live, Own, Vote, and Excel (L.O.V.E.), offering a blueprint for creating positive change in communities across the country.

A retired tech entrepreneur, New York Times bestselling author, and former vice president of the Knight Foundation, Trabian managed $300M in active grants across 26 U.S. cities, driving transformative change through strategic philanthropy. In 2024, he co-founded the Next Narrative Network, a dynamic group of foundation and corporate leaders harnessing the power of positive narratives to create transformative social impact.

Trabian’s leadership is driving transformative change in how society approaches philanthropic issues and narratives. Join us in celebrating his impactful contributions!

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