The sharing economy is no longer a new idea, but the constant development of novel business models centered on the sharing concept creates interesting challenges for local regulatory agencies. Each type of sharing economy business, from rideshares and micromobility to short-term rentals, brings its own complex challenges for local regulators. Addressing them requires careful deliberation….

Jones Mayer’s lead legal secretary, Wendy Gardea, brings a runner’s mindset to her work. She draws on the disciplines built over the miles to bring the focus, drive, and commitment needed to keep the firm’s gears turning. In this article, we sit down with Wendy to learn a bit about how she does it. A…

On March 10, 2021, Congress passed the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (the “Act”), which created a fund to assist state and local governments that have suffered financially because of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Act places certain restrictions on the uses to which eligible agencies can put their relief funds.  This article provides a…

Jones Mayer is pleased to announce that the San Juan Water District has engaged Partner Ryan Jones to serve as the District’s General Counsel. Serving approximately 160,000 wholesale and retail customers in the greater Sacramento area, the District traces its roots to the Gold Rush era. The engagement reflects the firm’s ongoing commitment to serving…

The Fair Housing Act (FHA), 42 U.S.C. § 3604, broadly prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, familial status, or national origin in transactions related to residential properties. The statute’s scope captures not only rental and sale transactions, but also “the provision of services or facilities in connection therewith,” advertising, lending, and…

A recent decision by the Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals has garnered attention and, in the process, created some confusion about the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and obligations to make websites accessible for people with disabilities. Much of the confusion stems from distinct sets of rules stemming from Title II and Title III of…

For decades, service to our state’s law enforcement agencies has been central to Jones & Mayer’s mission. Partner James Touchstone carries on the tradition today. We asked him to offer his reflections on his work and career, and the changes he sees on the horizon for his practice. Roots in public service Mr. Touchstone grew…

The widespread adoption of body-worn cameras (BWCs) by law enforcement agencies throughout the United States has transformed public expectations of transparency and accountability in policing. While much of the transparency brought by BWCs has had a positive influence on policing, it has also created complex challenges. This article summarizes important elements of California law that…