Womble Perspectives

In this episode of Womble Perspectives, host Lee Van Voorhis is joined by Kristina Moore to discuss what companies—particularly in the energy and data center sectors—should know about Congressional investigations and oversight. Kristina draws on her extensive Capitol Hill experience to explain how these inquiries differ from traditional regulatory or enforcement actions, including the practical realities of subpoenas, privilege concerns, and political dynamics. The conversation covers current and potential oversight priorities in both the House and Senate, along with what executives and general counsel can do now to reduce risk and prepare. About Kristina MooreAbout Lee Van Voorhis

Today we’re digging into the energy demands of artificial intelligence and the political pressure it’s creating. Senate Democrats are calling out Big Tech over the skyrocketing electricity consumption of data centers powering AI, which makes this not just a tech topic, but a conversation about consumer costs, infrastructure, and the politics of energy.Read the full articleSenate Democrats Press Big Tech on the Cost of AI’s Soaring Energy DemandsAbout the authorKristina Moore

Today we’re unpacking our new Energy Outlook 2026. This is our fifth global energy sector report, and with insights from more than 650 senior leaders across energy companies, investors, service providers, and energy-intensive consumers worldwide, it paints a fairly comprehensive picture of what’s ahead. Read more2026 Global Energy Sector Under Pressure2026 Energy Report

California residents to be licensed—or have an application pending through NMLS—by July 1, 2026. This episode covers who must comply, key consumer protection requirements under AB 39 and SB 401, new rules for crypto kiosks, and what digital asset companies should be doing now to prepare for DFPI oversight. Read the articleCalifornia’s New Digital Financial Assets Law Requires Application for Cryptocurrency Licenses to be Submitted by July 1, 2026 About the authorsAmy Greenwood-FieldDerek W. EdwardsScott J. Hyman, CIPP (US/E), CIPM, CIPTRobert W. Savoie

Nebraska has enacted Legislative Bill 717, a sweeping update to its consumer finance laws. This brief covers the expansion of the Nebraska Installment Loan and Sales Act from $25,000 to $100,000, changes to how the state’s 16% usury cap applies, and new net tangible benefit disclosure requirements for installment and mortgage refinances—all ahead of an estimated July 18, 2026 compliance date. Read the articleNebraska Amends Various Finance LawsAbout the authorsRobert W. SavoieJulia Berry Lopez

Data breaches are no longer just cybersecurity incidents, they’re litigation events, and this episode explores how cyber incidents can quickly turn into class actions, regulatory‑driven discovery, and complex disputes over standing, causation, and damages. As cyber risk becomes enterprise‑wide legal risk, litigation readiness is no longer optional. An integrated digital solutions approach can help organizations prepare for cyber incidents with an eye toward what matters most. Read the articleUnder Attack: Managing Disputes Arising from Digital IncidentsAbout WBD’s Digital Solutions TeamDigital Solutions at Womble Bond Dickinson

As crypto assets move deeper into the financial mainstream, the U.S. government is under pressure to create clearer, smarter rules. In this episode, our hosts break down why crypto regulation has been so fragmented, how federal agencies currently divide responsibility, and why Congress may be the key to long‑term clarity. We explore what a risk‑based regulatory framework could look like—and what it means for businesses, investors, and the future of digital assets in the U.S. Read the full articleA Framework for Crypto Asset Regulation About the authorsLouis FroelichJD Uglum 

On March 27, 2026, the Office of Foreign Access Control issued three new general licenses focused on Venezuela’s minerals sector, including gold. In today’s episode, we break down what each license authorizes, the conditions that apply, and how they differ in scope. From trade in Venezuelan-origin minerals, to operational support, to contingent contracts for new investment, we explore what these licenses permit, and what they still leave off-limits.Read the Full ArticleExplaining OFAC Venezuela Mining Sector-Related General Licenses 51A, 54 and 55About the AuthorsJosé Luis Vittor*Alan F. EnslenFrancisco Balduzzi*Julius H. Bodie

Getting inventorship wrong can do more than complicate a patent, it can destroy it. In this episode, we unpack a recent Federal Circuit decision that invalidated two patents after a co-inventor was omitted and couldn’t be added later. Using Fortress Iron v. Digger Specialties as a case study, we explore why inventorship errors arise in collaborative development environments, why some mistakes can’t be fixed after issuance, and what companies can do early in development to protect the enforceability of their patents. Read the Full ArticleInventorship Errors Can Undermine Patent Value: Practical Steps to Reduce Risk About the AuthorsKarthika Perumal, Ph.D.Michael R. Samardzija, Ph.D.Jeffrey S. Whittle

Advanced Air Mobility is often imagined as a bold new urban aviation network, but early implementation may look far more familiar. In this episode, we explore why existing public airports are emerging as key early sites for AAM planning and deployment. Focusing on land use, governance, and recent developments in Arizona, we discuss how airport frameworks, statewide planning signals, and sponsor-led concepts—like those in Phoenix—may shape how AAM is introduced both on and beyond airport property.Read the articleOn Airport First: Early Observations on Advanced Air Mobility in ArizonaAbout the authorHeidi K. Short

Today we’re diving into new supplemental guidance from the United States Patent and Trademark Office that could have an effect on how design patents are drafted for digital products. On March 13, 2026, the USPTO published this guidance in the Federal Register specifically addressing design patent applications claiming computer-generated interfaces, icons, and even holograms. Read the articleUSPTO Issues Supplemental Guidance on Design Patents for Computer-Generated Interfaces and IconsAbou the authorsAlex WhartonJacob Wharton

South Carolina lawmakers have just proposed legislation that could significantly affect how social media companies handle consumer data. It’s called the Digital Choice Act and it focuses on data access, portability, and interoperability between platforms. For privacy professionals and legal teams, this will be one to watch. Read the articleProposed Legislation in South Carolina: The “Digital Choice Act” About the authorRyan Ellard 

Today, we’re unpacking findings from the 2026 Womble Bond Dickinson Client Survey, which paints a clear picture of where business leaders are right now. Innovation—especially artificial intelligence—is accelerating faster than the rules meant to govern it. And that gap is creating both opportunity and real risk. Read the articleEmerging Tech, Escalating Risks: What Corporate Leaders Reveal in the Womble Bond Dickinson Client SurveyAbout the authorsTara Cho John Gray Mark Henriques Chris Jones 

Over the last year, and especially after a recent February decision, the Texas Business Court is quickly becoming a go‑to venue for trade secrets disputes. What’s interesting is that this shift may not stop at trade secrets alone. There are strong signs the court could play a significant role in patent‑adjacent litigation as well. Read the articleTexas Business Court Signals Broad IP Jurisdiction, Opening Door to Patent‑Adjacent DisputesAbout the authorsJeff Whittle Kartika Perumal 

Today’s episode is part of our Recruiting Success stories series. Lori Patton, our Chief Recruiting Officer, sits down with Jeff Whittle, a partner in our Houston office and Head of our Global Energy and Natural Resources team. The two discuss Jeff’s journey with Womble, his initial leap of faith to join the firm, and his experience in building the Houston office. More about WBD's Energy and Natural Resources practice

Today we’re breaking down a recent regulatory update from the FDA that landed on February 5th, 2026, which deals with how food companies can use the phrase “no artificial colors” on their labels. And even though the laws haven’t changed, the practical impact could be substantial. It’s an update that may seem small on the surface but touches marketing, compliance, and consumer perception all at once.Read the articleUpdate for Big Food: FDA Announces New Policy on “No Artificial Colors” LabelingAbout the authorAl Windham 

Today’s episode is part of our Recruiting Success stories series. Lori Patton, our Chief Recruiting Officer, sits down with Michael McCue, a partner in our Intellectual Property group who joined Womble as part of our combination with Lewis Roca in January of 2025. The two discuss Womble's entrepreneurial approach and his experience since joining the firm.More about WBD's Intellectual Property practice.

Today, we’re looking at a provocative development in reproductive science: selecting embryos based on projected intelligence. Picture this: a couple undergoing IVF is presented with three embryos. They’re told each has a different predicted IQ. Embryo 1, 2, or 3—who’s likely to be the smartest?Read the full articleThe Intersection of Genetics and Law: Navigating New FrontiersAbout the authorChristina Upton Douglas

In today’s episode, we’re diving into a pretty big shift in how lab-developed tests are regulated in the United States. If you’re up on FDA developments, you may have heard that there’s an effort to regulate these tests as medical devices. But a recent federal court ruling in Texas just flipped the script.Instead of agreeing with the FDA, the court basically said, “Nope, lab-developed tests aren’t devices—they’re services.” And services aren’t under the FDA’s jurisdiction.Read the full article:FDA’s Authority Over Lab-Developed Tests Overturned: What the Court’s Decision Means for Lab TestingAbout the authors:L. Christine LawsonKatie Clowers 

Today’s episode is part of our Recruiting Success stories series. Lori Patton, our Chief Recruiting Officer, sits down with Ana Gutierrez, head of Womble's Environmental Practice. The two discuss leaps of faith and what led Ana to land at our firm.More about WBD's Energy and Natural Resources sector.

Today we’re digging into a potentially groundbreaking legal ruling about AI. It’s the first time a federal court has weighed in on whether chats with an AI tool like Claude or ChatGPT can be considered privileged. Spoiler: the court said no. And this could have implications for businesses and legal teams.Read the full articleClient’s Use of AI Not Protected by Attorney Client PrivilegeAbout the authorsIan P. O’KeefeHayden J. Silver, IIIScott D. AndersonLuke Cass 

Today, we’re talking about a federal development that’s primed to reshape an entire industry: the booming market for hemp‑derived cannabinoids. If you’ve seen delta‑8 gummies at a gas station or THC seltzers in a mainstream grocery store, you’ve witnessed this explosion firsthand.Read the articleNavigating New Hemp Laws: A Major Shift for the Cannabis IndustryAbout the authorJennifer German 

Today we’re unpacking our new Energy Outlook 2026. This is our fifth global energy sector report, and with insights from more than 650 senior leaders across energy companies, investors, service providers, and energy-intensive consumers worldwide, it paints a fairly comprehensive picture of what’s ahead. Read more2026 Global Energy Sector Under Pressure2026 Energy Report

Today’s episode sits at the intersection of culture, commerce, and creativity, diving into a trademark dispute that’s got both the fashion and music industries watching closely. It’s a case that asks: Can a rock band’s name really confuse consumers into thinking they’re buying luxury jewelry?Read the full articleHe Has His Heart of Gold…. Why Not a Chrome Heart, Too?About the authorLori B. Cohen

Recently, the White House and the FDA issued statements suggesting a possible connection between prenatal acetaminophen exposure and increased risks of autism and ADHD. These announcements have prompted strong reactions from the scientific community. Organizations like The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and The World Health Organization have responded with caution, emphasizing that the current evidence does not support a definitive causal link.So, what does the science actually say?Read the full articleAutism and Acetaminophen Use during Pregnancy: Does Science Support the Claim of a Link?About the authorMatt Quinn, Ph.D.

Today, we’re diving into a story that’s been making waves: radioactive shrimp. It sounds like something out of a sci-fi movie, but it’s very real. U.S. Customs and Border Patrol agents recently intercepted multiple shipments of cloves and frozen shrimp from two Indonesian islands—Java and Sumatra—that tested positive for Cesium-137. So what comes next?Read the full articleFDA Wields Additional Import Power for First TimeAbout the authorAndrew R. de Holl

Today, we’re diving into a significant development in intellectual property law that’s making waves across the intellectual property sector. On November 28, 2025, the USPTO published new guidance on inventorship for AI-assisted inventions, and it’s a big shift from what we saw in early 2024. The main headline is simple but powerful: there will be no separate inventorship standard for AI-assisted inventions. The same legal standard that applies to traditional inventions applies here. And consistent with long-standing case law, only natural persons, that is to say human beings, can be listed as inventors. Read the full articleUSPTO Replaces AI Inventorship GuidanceAbout the authorsAlex WhartonBen BourkeChris Mammen

In this episode, we’re diving into a critical topic that deals with the future of energy: spent nuclear fuel, or SNF. And as of right now, the U.S. has more than 91,000 metric tons of SNF sitting in storage with no permanent solution. That’s a truly staggering number. Especially since about 95% of that material can actually be reused. And through reprocessing and recycling, we could turn what we call “waste” into new reactor fuel, which would dramatically reduce high-level waste.Read the full articleUnlocking the Potential of Spent Nuclear Fuel – Renewed Interest in Reprocessing and Recycling in the United StatesAbout the authorThomas J. Dougherty

In this episode, we’re diving into a critical topic that deals with the future of energy: spent nuclear fuel, or SNF. And as of right now, the U.S. has more than 91,000 metric tons of SNF sitting in storage with no permanent solution. That’s a truly staggering number. Especially since about 95% of that material can actually be reused. And through reprocessing and recycling, we could turn what we call “waste” into new reactor fuel, which would dramatically reduce high-level waste.Read the full articleUnlocking the Potential of Spent Nuclear Fuel – Renewed Interest in Reprocessing and Recycling in the United StatesAbout the authorThomas J. Dougherty

Today we're breaking down a copyright decision out of the Southern District of New York. On January 8, 2026, the court granted Universal Music Group’s motion to dismiss in a case brought by hip‑hop legends Salt‑N‑Pepa. Read the full articleUniversal Music Group’s Recent Success in Blocking Section 203 Termination Rights Could Pose a Threat to Artists’ Abilities to Reclaim Sound Recording Rights in the Future.About the authorsWilliam T. RamseyMariam N. StocktonDani Bhadare-Valente 

Today we're breaking down a copyright decision out of the Southern District of New York. On January 8, 2026, the court granted Universal Music Group’s motion to dismiss in a case brought by hip‑hop legends Salt‑N‑Pepa. Read the full articleUniversal Music Group’s Recent Success in Blocking Section 203 Termination Rights Could Pose a Threat to Artists’ Abilities to Reclaim Sound Recording Rights in the Future.About the authorsWilliam T. RamseyMariam N. StocktonDani Bhadare-Valente 

Today we’re diving into a health care policy and focusing in on the Make America Healthy Again Commission, or the MAHA Commission. It launched in 2025, and its recommendations reach deep into pharmaceutical marketing and prescriber engagement.Read the articleHow the MAHA Commission Could Influence Pharmaceutical Marketing and Prescriber EducationAbout the authorMatt Quinn, Ph.D. 

Today we’re unpacking a development from the Nevada Gaming Control Board. On January 16th, 2026, the Board released Notice 2026‑04, an important update for anyone with online gaming products outside Nevada. And when we say “online gaming,” the Board defines it really broadly. We're talking real‑money gambling over the internet, plus all the systems, platforms, content, and software that power it. Basically, if money moves digitally in a gaming environment, you should assume this applies to you.Read the articleIndustry Guidance for Online Gaming ProductsAbout the authorsKarl F. RutledgeGlenn LightDonghyun Lee 

Today, we’re diving into a topic that impacts nearly every voice service provider in the U.S.: robocalls. As 2026 begins, the FCC and FTC are ramping up enforcement, and states are joining the fight. Read the full articleDon’t Leave Your Robocall Obligations Behind in 2026!About the authorsJill Canfield, EsqPeter A. Gregory

Today, we’re taking a look at some changes in the way U.S. businesses invest abroad: the new outbound investment rules under the COINS Act. For decades, U.S. foreign investment laws were all about inbound investments aimed at protecting U.S. businesses from foreign control.Read the articleHistoric Change in U.S. Foreign Direct Investment: New Restrictions on U.S. Outbound Investment AbroadAbout the authorDavid Vance Lucas

In this episode, we dive into the record-breaking $18.5 million Huntsman v. Southwest Airlines settlement, the largest USERRA class action recovery ever reported, and what it means for employers. From policy audits to training and risk management, learn how proactive measures can help avoid costly litigation while supporting employees who serve.Read the articleSoaring to Service: $18.5M USERRA Settlement and HR Takeaways – What HR Needs to Know About Military Leave PayAbout the authorsAndreas MosbyMartha J. Zackin

In this episode, we unpack the EPA and Army Corps’ proposed changes to the definition of “waters of the United States” under the Clean Water Act—a shift that could reshape federal jurisdiction and impact industries from construction to agriculture. With fewer permits and reduced oversight on the horizon, we explore what this means for businesses, environmental protections, and the regulatory landscape moving forward.Read the full articleEPA and Army Corps Propose Narrower Definition of “Waters of the United States”About the authorsLisa RushtonAna Maria GutiérrezMichael D. MillerGrace Hearn

Today, we’re cracking open a really significant resource in the world of high-stakes litigation. It's the updated White Collar Crime, Third Edition, 2025 Edition 9 volume legal treatise, edited by WBD’s Michael Clark and Luke Cass, published by Thomson Reuters.About the authors:Luke CassMichael Clark

Parkinson's Disease is a relentless neurological disorder that affects millions globally. Characterized by tremors, stiffness, and coordination difficulties, it severely disrupts daily life. For those living with it - and for their caregivers - finding effective symptom management strategies is paramount. This is where cannabis could come in. A plant often wrapped in controversy, cannabis seems to be emerging as a potential ally in managing symptoms of Parkinson's Disease.Read the full articleExploring the Potential of Cannabis in Managing Parkinson's DiseaseAbout the authorMelissa Ratliff, RN, BSN, Legal Nurse Consultant

As the summer Olympic Games approach, we can expect to see some athletes being banned due to doping. The U.S. Anti-Doping Agency, which oversees American Olympic and Paralympic athletes, enforces stringent testing standards. Remember the female US track star banned from the Tokyo Games for testing positive for marijuana? Spoiler: she's back and faster than ever. Although marijuana remains banned in the Olympics, the NC double A Division 1 Council recently decided to remove cannabinoids from the banned drug class for NC double A championships and postseason football.Read the full article.About the author:Kim Beane

By now, we all know that Generative AI models are trained on massive amounts of data, much of which is collected from the Internet, as well as other sources.This AI is also generating tons of new content, much of which ends up online. But what happens when this AI-generated content is used again to train the AI models?Read the full article.About the authorDr. Christian E. Mammen

By now, we all know that Generative AI models are trained on massive amounts of data, much of which is collected from the Internet, as well as other sources.This AI is also generating tons of new content, much of which ends up online. But what happens when this AI-generated content is used again to train the AI models?Read the full article.About the authorDr. Christian E. Mammen

Today we’re digging into the energy demands of artificial intelligence and the political pressure it’s creating. Senate Democrats are calling out Big Tech over the skyrocketing electricity consumption of data centers powering AI, which makes this not just a tech topic, but a conversation about consumer costs, infrastructure, and the politics of energy.Read the full articleSenate Democrats Press Big Tech on the Cost of AI’s Soaring Energy DemandsAbout the authorKristina Moore

Today, we’re tackling part two of what it takes to find expert witnesses, and we’re following up with the next big question: once you’ve got a shortlist of candidates, how do you choose the best one? It turns out, it’s not just about degrees and licenses. There are multiple other factors that can make or break credibility in front of a jury.More infoFinding an Expert Witness (Part 2): Best Practices for Choosing the Best CandidatePart 1: Where to Look and What to Ask to Find the Right Witness for Your CaseAbout the authorKim Beane

In courtrooms across the country, cases often hinge on what’s known as the “battle of the experts.” The credibility, character, and clarity of an expert witness can make or break a case. But, what makes an expert witness truly credible—and where do you even begin to find one who could help you win your case?Read the full articleFinding an Expert Witness: Best Practices for Finding Credible ExpertsAbout the authorKim Beane

Today we’re tackling a development from the U.S. Department of Justice that could reshape compliance strategies across multiple industries. The DOJ has launched a new Health & Safety Unit within its Criminal Division’s Fraud Section, and this could signal a sizeable shift for companies in health, safety, and consumer product sectors.Read the full articleDOJ Unleashes New Health & Safety Unit: Anticipate Augmented Criminal Enforcement for Certain Regulated IndustriesAbout the authorsLuke CassMichael E. ClarkKristina M. MooreTing-Yu Huang*

Today, we’re tackling a question that maybe sounds straightforward, but could have complicated, unforeseen consequences. That question? What happens if the FDA stops collecting user fees from drug companies? At first glance, it sounds like a win. Less corporate influence, more independence for regulators. But is it really that simple? Read the full articleThe Cost of Free: What Removing FDA User Fees Could Mean for Drug Innovation and Public HealthAbout the authorMatt Quinn, Ph.D.

Today we’re tackling a major development in California’s climate disclosure landscape. The state’s ambitious climate disclosure law was set to usher in a new era of corporate transparency. But now, everything is on hold. Just weeks before the first compliance deadline, the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals granted an injunction that pauses enforcement of the law. This unexpected twist leaves thousands of businesses wondering: What happens next? Read the full articleCalifornia’s Climate Risk Disclosure Law Paused: What SB 261’s Injunction Means for BusinessesAbout the authorLisa Rushton

Today’s episode focuses on a fascinating intersection of science, law, and economics: the rise of psychedelic therapy and the legal frameworks shaping its future. In this era of industrialized capitalism, there are strong incentives to promote products in emerging industries. Intellectual property law has always played a key role in fueling innovation and now, it’s poised to do the same for psychedelic therapies. Read the full articleActualizing Therapy from Psychedelic Compounds Requires Acknowledging the Past Pioneers as well as Encouraging Cooperation from Current Market PlayersAbout the authorBen Bourke

In this episode, we're talking about a critical alert from the Federal Communications Commission: the FCC’s Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau has issued a Public Notice after a recent wave of cybersecurity intrusions targeting radio broadcasters. And these weren’t harmless pranks. Attackers managed to broadcast obscene materials and even actual or simulated Emergency Alert System tones. That’s a serious disruption. Not just for stations, but for public trust in emergency communications. Read the articleFCC Alerts Broadcasters of Cybersecurity ThreatAbout the authorsF. Reid AvettStephen T. Sharbaugh