State Attorneys General The State AG Report Blog Star-Studded NY AG’s Race | Barriers Against Robocallers | Challenges Against Vaccine Mandate The State AG Report – 11.18.2021 Here are last week’s curated AG and federal regulatory news stories highlighting key areas in which state and federal regulators’ decisions are having an impact across the US: 51 Attorneys General Urge FCC to Implement Stronger Barriers Against Robocallers Former Impeachment Prosecutor Enters 2022 Race for New York Attorney General ‘Tis the Season for New Candidates to Jump into Attorneys General Races Taking Care of the Caretakers: New York AG Recovers Millions in Wages for Home Care Aides Attorneys General Challenge Biden Administration’s COVID-19 Vaccine Mandate for Healthcare Workers Potential for Future Competitive Harm Results in Divestiture Requirement for Generic Drug Company Acquisition Read more here. As their state’s chief legal officer, state attorneys general (AGs) wield broad authority to investigate and take action on virtually any subject and in any industry. With the increasing use of the office as a springboard for higher political ambitions, AGs across the country are continuing to grow in prominence, power, and influence. Any company that hires employees, makes or sells a product, offers a service, conducts marketing, or engages with consumers may be subject to scrutiny by an AG. Cozen O’Connor was one of the first firms to establish a team dedicated to representing clients in AG investigations and litigation, and counselling clients on state AG matters. Our attorneys work at the cutting edge of issues of critical importance to AGs, including antitrust, cybersecurity, data privacy, consumer protection, the environment, and labor laws. We serve a wide range of clients, from nimble start-ups to Fortune 50 companies. With more than 40 years’ experience, and backed by the resources of an AmLaw Global 100 firm, we help companies analyze and interpret AGs’ interests and understand how those interests inform their enforcement and policy priorities. We actively engage in dialogue with AG offices and regularly attend AG events and meetings to advocate on our clients’ behalf. Our team is nationally recognized for our deep understanding of how every AG office operates and our relationships in the AG community. When AGs, either alone, in multi-state actions, or jointly with federal agencies, focus their attention on a company’s activities or business practices and an investigation or lawsuit ensues, we have the experience and knowledge to mount a vigorous defense. Members of the Cozen O’Connor State AG Group have served both in senior government and in-house positions, providing us with a unique perspective and ability to assist our clients. We have first-hand experience in the formulation of policy positions and long-standing professional relationships with key decision-makers. We also appreciate the imperatives of business, and are focused on achieving practical solutions that align with our clients’ long term strategic business goals. Our services include: Establishing and maintaining dialogue with AGs Anticipating and crafting creative solutions to address state AG and federal agency policy positions that impact clients Minimizing litigation exposure Defending vigorously against AG investigations and lawsuits As the internet has revolutionized business, whole industries such as transportation, gaming, energy, financial services and hospitality have been turned on their heads by new entrants, new technologies, and new ways of doing business. We have particular experience working with clients to address the “square peg, round hole” issues brought by innovators in these “disrupted” industries, as well as in other industries such as banking, software and technology, pharmaceuticals, telecommunications, and nutritional and dietary supplements. AFFIRMATIVE OUTREACH EFFORTS AND CAMPAIGNS State AGs can be powerful allies, or indeed adversaries, when it comes to causes and issues their constituents care about. Our team formulates and executes multi-pronged outreach and advocacy efforts to educate AGs and encourage action that supports our clients’ business goals. Based on our in-depth knowledge of policy, state law, and individual AGs’ priorities, we focus on those AGs where there is alignment with our clients’ business objectives. We aim to control and shape our clients’ narrative, before someone else does. State AGs can have a significant impact on the outcome of litigation as amici. Our team regularly works with clients to identify state AG champions who would have a stake in Supreme Court cases affecting their interests and have secured AG amicus support in the U.S. Supreme Court in many landmark cases, including Concepcion, Twombly and linkLine. INVESTIGATIONS AND LITIGATION As the chief consumer protection advocates in their states, AGs regularly investigate and take enforcement action against businesses under their states’ unfair, deceptive, and abusive practices laws (commonly referred to as UDAP laws). Our team has successfully resolved investigations and other enforcement actions involving all 50 states and the District of Columbia in connection with alleged violations of consumer protection laws involving sales, marketing, pricing, and labeling of products and services. On behalf of our clients, we also regularly work with consumer protection staff within state AG offices to address consumer complaints and resolve potential disputes before they escalate to lengthy and expensive litigation or investigations. We also have extensive experience advising clients in antitrust matters involving state and federal competition enforcers, particularly as federal agencies have begun coordinating and undertaking joint actions with their AG counterparts. Our lawyers regularly handle investigations and high-stakes litigation involving state AGs and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), Department of Justice (DOJ), and Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB). We regularly clear mergers with AG antitrust enforcers, and have represented clients with respect to the largest mergers in the telecommunications and pharmaceutical industries. COMPLEX DISPUTE RESOLUTION With a deep bench of experience defending actions brought by AGs, our team defends companies facing civil investigative demands, subpoenas, and lawsuits. Given today’s rapid escalation in active enforcement, AG action can result in critical business exposure. AGs may act alone, as part of a multi-state action, or in concert with other federal regulators such as the DOJ, FTC, CFPB, FCC, and SEC, as well as Congress. We have represented clients in large and complex “bet-the-company” suits that often present novel legal issues and involve coordinated action by numerous AGs. We work with our clients to facilitate favorable outcomes throughout the entirety of a matter from document collection, review and production, discovery, pre-trial motions, settlement negotiations, and, if necessary, trial. DATA PRIVACY AND INFORMATION SECURITY Enforcement of data protection and privacy laws has become an area of intense focus for AGs in recent years. We advise companies in the retail, finance, healthcare, credit card, telecommunications, pharmaceutical, and other industries on cybersecurity, data privacy, and information security matters before AGs. We conduct data breach counseling, represent clients facing AG scrutiny for their data management practices, assist clients in navigating the complex data breach notification process, and help resolve AG inquiries into data loss. We also conduct internal investigations and counsel clients with respect to the legal, political, and public relations issues that result from data breach incidents. Tweet EXPERIENCE PUBLICATIONS Star-Studded NY AG’s Race | Barriers Against Robocallers | Challenges Against Vaccine Mandate November 18, 2021 The State AG Report – 11.18.2021 Here are last week’s curated AG and federal regulatory news stories highlighting key areas in which state and federal regulators’ decisions are having an impact across the US. Web Scrapers And Their Targets Beware. Regulators Are Zeroing In On Privacy Implications [Alert] November 17, 2021 Lori Kalani, Mira Baylson, and Meghan Stoppel provide a primer on web scraping as well as an overview of the legal and regulatory challenges. Supermarket Divestiture | Instagram Influencer Faces Consumer Complaints | Washington Data Breach Report November 11, 2021 The State AG Report – 11.11.2021 Here are last week’s curated AG and federal regulatory news stories highlighting key areas in which state and federal regulators’ decisions are having an impact across the US. 2021 Election Results | Republican AGs Challenge Vaccine Mandate For Federal Contractors | Improper Data Disposal November 04, 2021 The State AG Report – 11.4.2021 Here are last week’s curated AG and federal regulatory news stories highlighting key areas in which state and federal regulators’ decisions are having an impact across the US. Bank Settles Redlining Allegations | Dialysis Deal Requires Divestiture | Limiting Arsenic in Baby Food October 28, 2021 The State AG Report – 10.28.2021 Here are last week’s curated AG and federal regulatory news stories highlighting key areas in which state and federal regulators’ decisions are having an impact across the US. California Splits from the FDA: CBD Now Permitted in Food, Beverages and More [Alert] October 25, 2021 Mira Baylson, Meghan Stoppel, and Gianna Puccinelli discuss California's new law AB-45 that prohibits restrictions on the sale of dietary supplements, food, beverages, cosmetics, or pet food that contains CBD. Cease-and-Desist Letters to Crypto Platforms | $20M False Claims Settlement | Objections to Proposed IRS Reporting Rules October 21, 2021 The State AG Report – 10.21.2021 Here are last week’s curated AG and federal regulatory news stories highlighting key areas in which state and federal regulators’ decisions are having an impact across the US. Two AGs Announce Future Plans | USPS Plan Under Fire | FTC Warns of Steep Fines for Deceptive Practices October 14, 2021 The State AG Report – 10.14.2012 Here are last week’s curated AG and federal regulatory news stories highlighting key areas in which state and federal regulators’ decisions are having an impact across the US. Foreclosure Not a Timeshare Exit Strategy | CBP Sweeps on Greyhound Buses Ended | FTC, Florida AG Stop Scam September 30, 2021 The State AG Report – 9.30.2021 Here are last week’s curated AG and federal regulatory news stories highlighting key areas in which state and federal regulators’ decisions are having an impact across the US. Antitrust Suit re: American-JetBlue Pact | Vaccine Mandate Objections | Health Apps’ Data Security Obligations September 23, 2021 The State AG Report – 9.23.2021 Here are last week’s curated AG and federal regulatory news stories highlighting key areas in which state and federal regulators’ decisions are having an impact across the US. FTC’s New Enforcement Arsenal | Income Share Agreements Scrutinized | Big Oil Faces New Climate Suit September 16, 2021 The State AG Report – 9.16.20214 Here are last week’s curated AG and federal regulatory news stories highlighting key areas in which state and federal regulators’ decisions are having an impact across the US. $27.2 Million Subprime Auto Loan Settlement | California’s Labor Day Report | Stalkerware Apps Shut Down September 09, 2021 The State AG Report – 9.9.2021 Here are last week’s curated AG and federal regulatory news stories highlighting key areas in which state and federal regulators’ decisions are having an impact across the US. $575 Million Hospital Antitrust Settlement | Angry Birds & Privacy | Deceptive Debt-Settlement Practices September 02, 2021 Is Cooperative Federalism Attainable in Cannabis Regulation? AG Weiser Seems to Think So [Alert] September 01, 2021 Mira Baylson, Meghan Stoppel, and Gianna Puccinelli discuss Colorado State AG's letter to Congress regarding national cannabis reform and the recently proposed legislation, and how states and the federal government have worked together in the past to enact legislation and regulations. Recent Trends and Insights in State Attorney General Antitrust Enforcement August 31, 2021 Milton Marquis, Ann-Marie Luciano and Gianna Puccinelli analyze recent state AG antitrust enforcement trends, provide insight into targeted industries and consider future roles for state AGs. AGs Spar Over Firearm Regulations | FDA Urged to Help Curb Youth Nicotine Use | Alleged Wage Theft by Cannoli Factory August 26, 2021 Here are last week’s curated AG and federal regulatory news stories highlighting key areas in which state and federal regulators’ decisions are having an impact across the US. After Initial Rejection, Ohio AG Certifies Marijuana Legalization Law, But the Damage May Already Be Done August 24, 2021 Marijuana legalization activists have finally won the support of Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost (R). On Friday August 20, AG Yost approved summary language in a petition submission for a proposed law, the “Act to Control and Regulate Adult Use Cannabis,” penned by the Coalition to Regulate Marijuana Like Alcohol (the Coalition). UnitedHealthcare Mental Health Settlement | Fuel Card Doesn’t Deliver Promised Savings | Service Dog Scam August 19, 2021 The State AG Report – 8.19.2021 Here are last week’s curated AG and federal regulatory news stories highlighting key areas in which state and federal regulators’ decisions are having an impact across the US. Hydrogen Water Scam | NAAG Seeks Earlier Anti-Robocall Tech Adoption | False Claims Over Emissions Certifications August 12, 2021 The State AG Report – 8.12.2021 Here are last week’s curated AG and federal regulatory news stories highlighting key areas in which state and federal regulators’ decisions are having an impact across the US. Ohio AG Refuses to Certify Marijuana Legalization Law August 10, 2021 On the heels of our piece from last week about the value of seeking state attorneys general (AG) buy-in on draft legislation, Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost (R) rejected a petition submission for a proposed law that would legalize the recreational use of marijuana in the state. $20.7 Million Wage Theft Plea | Smith & Wesson Loses Bid to Toss AG Subpoena | FTC Merger Review Changes August 05, 2021 The State AG Report – 8.5.2021 Here are last week’s curated AG and federal regulatory news stories highlighting key areas in which state and federal regulators’ decisions are having an impact across the US. Heeding State AGs’ Perspectives on Draft Legislation May Pay Dividends [Alert] August 02, 2021 In this Client Alert Meghan Stoppel and Gianna Puccinelli discuss how monitoring state AGs’ views on draft legislation and proposed ballot initiatives can help indicate the likelihood of success of such measures. Natural Gas Price-Surge Investigation | Repair Restrictions in FTC Crosshairs | Uninhabitable Rentals July 29, 2021 Here are last week’s curated AG and federal regulatory news stories highlighting key areas in which state and federal regulators’ decisions are having an impact across the US. How Tax Code Changes Affect State AG Settlement Talks July 28, 2021 In this Law360 article State AG Group members Meghan Stoppel and Gianna Puccinelli highlight issues general counsel and their tax advisers may wish to consider when negotiating settlements with state attorneys general arising from recent changes to the IRS code. $26 Billion Global Opioid Settlement | Source of Millions of Robocalls Shut Down | Diesel-Related False Claims July 22, 2021 The State AG Report – 7.22.2021 Here are last week’s curated AG and federal regulatory news stories highlighting key areas in which state and federal regulators’ decisions are having an impact across the US. Google Antitrust Suit | Credit Card Surcharge Ban Lifted | California Clean Air Act Waiver Unconstitutional? July 15, 2021 The State AG Report – 7.15.2021 Here are last week’s curated AG and federal regulatory news stories highlighting key areas in which state and federal regulators’ decisions are having an impact across the US: In South Dakota, the AG and the Governor Are Sparring. What Does this Mean for Marijuana Deregulation in Other States? July 14, 2021 As marijuana legalization rolls out across the nation, state AGs will play a critical role in the interpretation and development of marijuana policy and enforcement. FTC’s New Made in the USA Labeling Rule | Semiconductor Monopoly Alleged | Falsified Truck Inspections July 08, 2021 Here are last week’s curated AG and federal regulatory news stories highlighting key areas in which state and federal regulators’ decisions are having an impact across the US Considerations for Businesses When Sharing Information with An AG’s Office July 06, 2021 Cozen O’Connor’s State Attorneys General Group co-chair Lori Kalani and members Mira Baylson and Meghan Stoppel recently authored an article in Infosecurity, “Considerations When Sharing Information with an AG's Office” offering advice for companies looking to better protect the sensitive information they submit to government entities in response to an inquiry or investigation. State AG Report Wins Burton Award for 2021 Law Blog of the Year July 02, 2021 Cozen O’Connor’s State AG Report, the go-to resource for issues relating to state attorneys general (AGs), has again in 2021 received the “Blog of the Year Award in Law” presented by the prestigious Burton Awards. Since 1999, The Burton Awards has rewarded excellence in the legal profession and we are honored to receive this recognition. New Jersey AG Accepts SEC Post | Divestiture Required in Retail Fuel Chain Deal | $230 M Opioid Settlement July 01, 2021 Here are last week’s curated AG and federal regulatory news stories highlighting key areas in which state and federal regulators’ decisions are having an impact across the United States. AGs Seek Antitrust Venue Protection | Cruise Industry Lockdown Lifted | AGs Urge SEC that Policy Disclosures are Unnecessary June 24, 2021 Stoppel Quoted in CyberSecurity Law Report on New CO Privacy Act June 23, 2021 State AG Group member Meghan Stoppel was quoted in a recent Cybersecurity Law Report article “Colorado Privacy Law Finishes Third, but Could Become the New Standard.” Nevada Consumer Protection Laws Gain New Teeth | Arizona AG Seeks Senate Seat | Democrat AGs Urge Climate Risk Disclosure June 17, 2021 Do You Know Your Attorney General With Lori Kalani Of Cozen O’Connor June 11, 2021 Lori Kalani spoke with Richard Levick about what inspired her to build a State AG practice, the importance of personal AG relationships, trends in AG prosecution as we emerge from COVID-19, and how general counsels can prioritize and improve their AG relationships. Virginia 2021 Stage Set | MA AG Urges Action on Ransomware | End Credits Roll For MoviePass June 10, 2021 State AGs Share Breach Notification Tips and Latest Enforcement Concerns June 09, 2021 State AG Group co-chair, Lori Kalani, and members Ann-Marie Luciano and Meghan Stoppel, offer best practice advice for companies whose security has been breached and comment on trends in AG enforcement. Paul Connell Featured in the Aquinas Report June 07, 2021 Paul Connell was featured in the Aquinas Report - a bi-annual magazine published by the Aquinas Catholic Schools in LaCrosse, Wisconsin (Paul is an alum). Subprime Auto Lender Allegedly Helped Sell Lemons | Fishy Medical Claims | CFPB Stops Loan Financing Scheme June 03, 2021 AMG Capital Decision May Mean More FTC Collaboration with State AGs, Increased Costs, Longer Timelines [Alert] June 02, 2021 Meghan Stoppel discusses the history of state AG and FTC collaboration and how AMG Capital may change that collaboration going forward. $2.7 Million False Claims Settlement | AG Opposition to Petrochemical Plant | Slow DSL Spurs FTC Suit May 27, 2021 NRA Denied Bankruptcy | CBD False Advertising | Republican AGs Press for Energy Infrastructure May 20, 2021 $1 Million Labor Law Citations | Ad Agency Sued Over Opioids | Fake Subscription Renewal Notices May 13, 2021 Environmental Justice Bureau Expansion | Closer FTC-AG Cooperation? | Open-Seat AG Races Heat Up May 06, 2021 FTC’s Alternative Path to Restitution—Collaborating With State AGs [Bloomberg Law] May 05, 2021 Bernie Nash, Milton Marquis, and Mira Baylson authored an article predicting that the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling revoking the FTC’s ability to go straight to federal court to seek monetary relief for unfair or deceptive acts will strengthen the commission’s partnership with state attorneys general. CBD Advertising Proceed with Caution to Avoid Confusion, Stay Out of State AG Crosshairs April 29, 2021 State AG Group members, Meghan Stoppel and Mira Baylson penned an article for Cannabis Business Executive on the real threat of regulatory scrutiny and the importance of a carefully crafted marketing campaign for companies manufacturing and selling CBD. Climate Change Metric Challenged | Heavy Metal In Baby Food | Misleading Reverse Mortgage Advertising April 29, 2021 New Law To Combat COVID-19 Fraud | Hazardous Waste Cleanup Settlement | Higher Consumer Protection Penalties April 22, 2021 Florida Sues CDC Over Cruise Industry Shutdown | Underpaid Fringe Benefits | Bipartisan AG Support For NO HATE Act April 15, 2021 Wine Asset Sale Watered Down | Fake Vaccination Cards | Misleading Franchisee Offer [The State AG Report Blog]Blog Post April 08, 2021 2022 AG Elections County District Attorney Launches Bid for Wisconsin Attorney General Fond du Lac County DA Eric Toney announced his candidacy for the Republican nomination in the 2022 race for the Wisconsin AG’s office, currently held by Democratic AG Josh Kaul. Toney was first elected to... Mobile Banking App Banned | Sticky Life Alert Contracts | Casino Pays Price for Misleading Regulators [The State AG Report Blog]Blog Post April 01, 2021 2023 AG Elections Candidates Ready to Vie for Louisiana Attorney General’s Office Should Incumbent Not Seek Reelection Louisiana Third District Attorney John Belton announced his plans to run for Louisiana AG if incumbent AG Jeff Landry does not seek reelection. Belton is not currently... California Gets a New AG | $188.6 Million Surgical Mesh Settlement | Keystone Pipeline Litigation [The State AG Report Blog]Blog Post March 25, 2021 State AGs in the News Governor Newsom Nominates Rob Bonta for California Attorney General Governor Gavin Newsom nominated California Assemblyman Rob Bonta to replace Xavier Becerra as California AG. Bonta’s appointment will need to be confirmed by the California legislature. According to... 41-State Data Breach Settlement | Additional CCPA Regulations | Suit over Patient Discharge Notice [The State AG Report Blog]Blog Post March 18, 2021 Antitrust Attorneys General Testify in House Hearing on Big Tech and Competition On March 18, 2021, Colorado AG Phil Weiser and Nebraska AG Doug Peterson testified before the Subcommittee on Antitrust, Commercial, and Administrative Law of the House’s Committee on the Judiciary in a hearing... Anti-Discrimination Clarification from CFPB | $110 Million Charity Scam | Deceptive Claims re: CBD Cures [The State AG Report Blog]Blog Post March 11, 2021 2022 AG Elections Kansas Attorney General Eyes Governor’s Mansion Kansas AG Derek Schmidt announced his candidacy for the Republican nomination for Governor in 2022. Schmidt, who first assumed the AG’s office in 2011, is the first Republican to announce his candidacy to unseat Democratic... 1st Amendment Win for Credit Card Surcharges| Texas Sues over Electricity Bills | Dodgy COVID Fees [The State AG Report Blog]Blog Post March 04, 2021 Cozen in the News Meghan Stoppel, Former Nebraska Consumer Protection Division Chief, Joins State Attorneys General Group Former Nebraska Consumer Protection Division Chief Meghan Stoppel joined Cozen O’Connor’s State AG Group as a Member. She is a Certified Information Privacy... Texas Power Companies Investigated Post-Storm | Cryptocurrency Investors Misled| Student Loan Relief [The State AG Report Blog]Blog Post February 25, 2021 2022 AG Elections Republican Candidate Seeks 2022 Rematch Against Minnesota’s Incumbent Attorney General Doug Wardlow, general counsel for My Pillow, Inc. and a former state representative, has announced he will again seek the Republican nomination for Minnesota AG. If he were to receive... $834 Million Plavix Judgment | Student Loan Servicing Settlement | Former NH Attorney General’s New Role [The State AG Report Blog]Blog Post February 18, 2021 Cozen in the News Cozen O’Connor State AG Group Attorneys Discuss Workplace Enforcement Priorities and Regulatory Risks Cozen O’Connor State AG Group members Maria Colsey Heard and Ann-Marie Luciano published an article in Bloomberg Law in which they discussed how state attorneys general are... State AGs Intensify Focus on Employee Rights in the Pandemic February 16, 2021 The Covid-19 pandemic has caused state attorneys general to accelerate their workplace enforcement efforts and is reshaping the issues businesses must consider to avoid regulatory risk. Cozen O’Connor State AG Group partners Maria Colsey Heard and Ann-Marie Luciano explain what steps businesses should take to respond. Read the Bloomberg Law piece here or here. Testimony Against Flavored Tobacco | Affordable Cellular Service | McKinsey Settles over Opioid Role [The State AG Report Blog]Blog Post February 11, 2021 2022 AG Elections Arkansas Lt. Governor Announces Intent to Run for Attorney General Arkansas Republican Lieutenant Governor Tim Griffin announced that he is dropping his gubernatorial bid and is running for Arkansas AG instead. Current two-term Arkansas AG Leslie Rutledge, a Republican, is... Strengthening Price Gouging Statute | Illegal Fees for Mortgage Payments | AGs Contest Reprieve for Robocallers [The State AG Report Blog]Blog Post February 04, 2021 Cozen in the News Cozen O’Connor’s State Attorneys General Practice Co-Chairs Quoted in Article About HHS Secretary Nominee Bernie Nash and Lori Kalani, Co-Chairs of Cozen O’Connor’s State Attorneys General Practice, are quoted in a Healthcare Dive article discussing the expectations for... The Race for the White House 2020 State AG Responses to a Trump or Biden Victory [Alert] October 29, 2020 Sean Riley discusses the likely impacts of a continuation of the Trump presidency or a new Biden/Harris administration on AGs’ priorities and areas of focus in the policy and enforcement arenas. 2020 State Attorney General Elections at a Glance [Alert] October 22, 2020 Jerry Kilgore discusses the state AG races taking place across the country, the outcomes of which will have a profound impact on their states’ constituents and businesses. As State Level First Responders, AGs Contend with New Challenges in Response to COVID-19 June 30, 2020 Christopher J. Allen discusses state AGs wielding their legal, political, and policy-making authority and increasing enforcement to protect consumers, enhance data privacy and security, eliminate price-gouging, and combat false claims for payment to state authorities. Pennsylvania Attorney General Announces Nursing Home Criminal Investigations [Alert] May 15, 2020 Danielle Sapega discusses the Pennsylvania attorney general's investigation into nursing homes, the Department of Health's guidance for nursing homes, and the governor's executive order granting immunity to health care workers. Demand for Information-Sharing Platforms Has Soared, Raising Privacy Concerns With Regulators [Alert] April 22, 2020 Lori Kalani and Ann-Marie Luciano discuss privacy and data security issues state AGs are investigating and what technology companies can do to prevent these issues. AGs on the Front Line of the COVID-19 Consumer Protection Fight [Alert] March 12, 2020 Christopher Allen discusses how Attorneys General (“AGs”) are manning the front line in keeping consumers from becoming victims of scams, abuse, or fraud using the powers they have wielded for decades across a wide range of industries to combat deceptive and misleading claims and unfair business practices. Avoiding Online Scams in the Time of Coronavirus [Alert] March 12, 2020 Trevor McGuinness discusses ways to avoid email scammers and hackers who may use the coronavirus as a way of accessing computers and personal information. Recent AG and FTC Enforcement Actions Provide Guidance on Data Security Best Practices [Infographic] February 10, 2020 More and more companies are experiencing crippling data breaches. We analyzed recent state Attorney General and FTC enforcement actions to identify eight data security best practices that companies can adopt to mitigate the likelihood of a breach which can be found in this infographic. State Attorney Activism and Enforcement Trends February 03, 2020 Ann-Marie Luciano, Chris Allen, and Bryan Mosca published an article in Bloomberg Law on February 3, 2020, sharing their observations on trends in state Attorney General activity in 2019, and the enforcement priorities they expect to see AGs focus on in 2020. State Attorneys General Antitrust Enforcement: Trends and Insights August 26, 2019 Milton Marquis, Ann-Marie Luciano & Keturah Taylor published an article highlighting the growing role of State Attorneys General utilizing their antitrust authority on a national scale through multistate action and co-enforcement activity with their federal counterparts. INSIGHT: State AGs Targeted Opioids in 2018, Wider Trends Predicted for 2019 [Bloomberg Law] February 20, 2019 Ann-Marie Luciano and Jawaria Gilani discuss the State Attorneys General actions relating to opioids in 2018 and predict enforcement trends for 2019. The Beltway Briefing Road to the 2018 Midterm Elections - Special General Election Edition October 30, 2018 On this podcast, Cozen O'Connor Public Strategies Managing Partner Howard Schweitzer and Former Virginia Attorney General and member of the Cozen O’Connor State AG group Jerry Kilgore join Blake Rutherford to discuss the highlights of key incumbent and open seat races in the 31 State AG elections in 2018. Federal Trade Commission Guidance to Multi-Level Marketing Companies [Today's General Counsel] October 17, 2018 An article authored by JB Kelly and Bryan Mosca has been published in the most recent quarterly issue of Today’s General Counsel. New Jersey’s U.S. Supreme Court Victory for Legalized Sports Betting [New Jersey Law Journal] June 01, 2018 Bryan Mosca, a member of Cozen O'Connor's State Attorneys General practice and Mark Quist, a law clerk of the firm's State Attorneys General practice, wrote about the implications of the gaming industry with legalized sports gambling in New Jersey. EVENTS & SEMINARS Past Events The Post-AMG Capital Path To Restitution: What Role for State AGs, Congress, and Alternative FTC Approaches? June 08, 2021 - Virtual 9th Annual Legal, Regulatory & Compliance Forum on Dietary Supplements June 01, 2021 - The Virginia CDPA: The Next Chapter in Consumer Data Privacy Law & Its Consequences on Businesses May 13, 2021 - Webinar 2021 ABA Antitrust Law Virtual Spring Meeting March 25, 2021 - COVID-19 Regulatory Roundup: Increase in Enforcement by OSHA and State Attorneys General March 25, 2021 - Webinar Driving Innovation, Creativity, and Effective Strategy: The Positive Impact of Diverse Teams on Addressing Trends in Litigation and Government Enforcement March 18, 2021 - Webinar Consumer Protection and the States February 04, 2021 - Enforcement Risks for Long-Term Care and Senior Care Providers Resulting from the COVID-19 Pandemic February 02, 2021 - November and the aftermath: How the upcoming elections will impact government enforcement on the private sector October 21, 2020 - Webinar A Quick Guide to 2020 State Attorney General Elections October 15, 2020 - Webinar Health Law 2020 December 04, 2019 - Philadelphia, PA Beyond the First Step Act May 22, 2019 - Washington, D.C. State Attorneys General and the Push on Consumer Protection May 14, 2019 - New York, NY Legal, Regulatory and Compliance Forum on Dietary Supplements June 19, 2018 - New York, NY Columbia Law School’s General Counsel Forum June 07, 2018 - 18th Annual Corporate Counsel SuperConference May 22, 2018 - Chicago, IL American Financial Services Association (AFSA) 2018 Law and Compliance Conference January 29, 2018 - San Diego, CA CTeL Executive Telehealth Fall Summit 2017 November 30, 2017 - Washington DC US Chamber of Commerce 18th Annual Legal Reform Litigation Summit October 25, 2017 - Washington, D.C. 2017 Association of Corporate Counsel Annual Meeting October 15, 2017 - Washington, D.C. State CPA Society ED/CEO and Managing P/MD Summit October 03, 2017 - Westlake, TX Cybersecurity Workshop September 27, 2017 - Tampa, FL FinTech Policy Roundtable Fly-In September 07, 2017 - Washington D.C. 2017 Consumer Protection Conference February 02, 2017 - Atlanta, GA Webinar - Violating Employment AND Antitrust Law: New Developments with Non-Compete Agreements December 06, 2016 - Webinar IN THE NEWS More Than 205 Cozen O’Connor Attorneys Named Best Lawyers and Ones to Watch By The Best Lawyers In America August 19, 2021 Best Lawyers selected 210 Cozen O’Connor lawyers from 23 of the firm’s nationwide offices for inclusion in the 2022 edition of The Best Lawyers in America. Colorado Gov. Repeals Ban On Credit Card Surcharges July 08, 2021 The State AG Group’s Bernard Nash and Keturah Taylor have notched another win for client CardX, LLC. with Colorado Gov. Jared Polis signing into law SB 21-091 a measure repealing the state's prohibition on credit card surcharges, joining a wave of other states that have recently done the same. Mira Baylson L’08 balances her Big Law billables with a parallel pro bono workload June 21, 2021 University of Pennsylvania Law School recently published an article highlighting alumni Mira Baylson’s extraordinary pro bono and public interest work. 82 Cozen O’Connor Lawyers, 19 Practices Earn Top Recognition in Chambers USA 2021 Guide May 26, 2021 Chambers USA, the leading annual guide to the top lawyers and law firms in the United States, has ranked 82 Cozen O’Connor lawyers as leaders in their respective fields in the guide’s 2021 edition; of those, 15 lawyers have been recognized nationally. How I Made Practice Group Co-Chairman: 'I Overcame a Meth Addiction and Invented a New Practice Area,' Says Lori Kalani of Cozen O'Connor May 12, 2021 Lori Kalani was highlighted by law.com about her career growth. Big Law Builds Up State AG Expertise Amid Enforcement Boost May 12, 2021 Lori Kalani was quoted in Bloomberg Law discussing the growth in law firms that have played out over the past five to 10 years in response to state AGs’ ramped up enforcement work in antitrust, health care, worker rights, and other areas. JD Supra Selects Four Cozen O’Connor Attorneys as Top Authors April 05, 2021 Cozen O’Connor is pleased to announce that Bernard Nash and Lori Kalani, co-chairs of the firm’s State Attorneys General practice, Michael Schmidt, vice chair of the firm’s Labor & Employment Department, and Rachel Welford, an attorney in the firm’s Transportation & Trade Group have been selected as top authors for JD Supra’s 2021 Readers’ Choice Awards for their thought leadership on key topics during 2020. Law Firms Double Down on State AG Practices March 03, 2021 Reuters noted the addition of former Nebraska Consumer Protection Chief Meghan Stoppel to Cozen O’Connor’s expanding State AG Group. The article quotes Group Co-Chair, Lori Kalani: “the firm strives to add lawyers to the practice who have specialized expertise with state attorney general matters, which can make it difficult to expand. The firm feels very fortunate to have been able to hire Meghan.” Cozen O’Connor Continues State Attorneys General Practice Expansion with Addition of Former Nebraska Consumer Protection Chief Meghan Stoppel March 02, 2021 Stoppel has served in high-level public roles and led and resolved multistate investigations in key industries including education, financial services, health care, and pharmaceuticals. CardX One Step Closer to Operating in 50 States. March 01, 2021 The Kansas District Court issued a judgment on Friday Feb 26 in favor of our client, Chicago-based payments technology company CardX, LLC, declaring that a Kansas law prohibiting credit card surcharges was unconstitutional as applied to CardX’s surcharging model. The court held that the statute violated CardX’s First Amendment right to commercial speech by unjustifiably controlling how prices are communicated to consumers. This judgment brings the number of states in which CardX is able to operate to 47, with only Colorado, Connecticut and Massachusetts continuing surcharge bans. How might Xavier Becerra operate as HHS Secretary? February 01, 2021 State AG Group co-chairs, Lori Kalani and Bernie Nash, recently discussed the nomination of California AG, Xavier Becerra, to head up the Department of Health and Human Services with Healthcare Dive. Cozen O'Connor Adds Wis. AG Alum in Chicago Office January 20, 2021 Expecting an influx of activity by state attorneys general in litigation and pandemic-related regulations, Cozen O’Connor LLP added its first Chicago-based attorney to its state AGs practice. Cozen O'Connor beefs up state AG practice with Wisconsin statehouse, Reed Smith alum January 11, 2021 Former Wisconsin deputy attorney general Paul Connell has joined Cozen O’Connor in Chicago, calling the firm’s state attorneys general practice the “market leader in the space.” Cozen O’Connor Expands State Attorneys General Practice with Addition of Former Wisconsin Deputy Attorney General Paul W. Connell January 11, 2021 Connell served as deputy attorney general and senior counsel to Wisconsin Attorney General Brad D. Schimel from 2015 to 2019. 63 Cozen O’Connor Lawyers, 16 Practices Earn Top Recognition in Chambers USA 2020 Guide May 14, 2020 Chambers USA, the leading annual guide to the top lawyers and law firms in the United States, has ranked 63 Cozen O’Connor lawyers as leaders in their respective fields in the guide’s 2020 edition. Recent AG and FTC Enforcement Actions Provide Guidance on Data Security Best Practices January 08, 2020 Ann-Marie Luciano and Jawaria Gilani published an article in the January 8 edition of CyberSecurity Law Report setting out practical steps companies can take to reduce the likelihood of a data breach. States Press Ahead With Privacy Laws Even as Congress Stalls December 23, 2019 Lori Kalani, co-chair of Cozen O’Connor’s State Attorneys General practice was quoted in a Bloomberg Law article discussing the cascading effect likely to result from the enactment of California’s new privacy laws and other actions by state attorneys general to hold companies accountable for collection and use of consumer data. Bryan Mosca Discusses Increasing Role of State AGs in Employment Law Enforcement December 06, 2019 On December 6, Bryan Mosca, a member of the State Attorneys General Practice, participated in a panel together with labor industry experts from Harvard Law, Chicago-Kent College of Law, and the Arise Worker Center at the Institute for Law and the Workplace Employment Law Conference in Chicago, IL. Big Tech Antitrust Probes to Stretch States’ Limits November 06, 2019 Bernard Nash and Lori Kalani were quoted in Bloomberg Law, discussing the strain that antitrust probes of Alphabet, Inc.’s Google and of Facebook, Inc. may place on the budgets of state Attorneys General already handling resource-intensive investigations and suits relating to opioids and drug-price fixing. Exxon’s Climate-Change Accounting Goes on Trial October 21, 2019 Bernie Nash, co-chair of the firm’s State Attorneys General Practice, is quoted in a Wall Street Journal article describing the upcoming courtroom showdown between Exxon Mobil Corp. and New York’s Attorney General over how the oil industry accounts for the impact of climate change. As the Litigation Funding Industry Grows, So Do Efforts to Control It July 11, 2019 Lori Kalani was quoted in The American Lawyer about attorneys general and state agencies taking action against litigation funders under state consumer protection laws. State Attorneys General Joined in 9 Legal Causes in May—Likely a Record Number June 03, 2019 Bernie Nash discussed with Corporate Counsel the legal causes that state attorneys general pushed during the month of May. The FTC’s Retooled Data Security Orders May 10, 2019 JB Kelly spoke with FTC Watch about the FTC’s April 24, 2019, settlement orders in cases against ClixSense and i-Dressup. 57 Cozen O’Connor Lawyers, 16 Practices Earn Top Recognition in Chambers USA 2019 Guide April 25, 2019 Chambers USA, the leading annual guide to the top lawyers and law firms in the USA, has ranked 57 Cozen O’Connor lawyers as leaders in their respective fields in the Guide’s 2019 edition. Experts Predict 2019 Will Be Most Aggressive Year Yet for State Attorney General Litigation February 08, 2019 Bernie Nash and Lori Kalani discussed with Corporate Counsel which sectors may see more aggressive scrutiny from state attorneys general in 2019, the kinds of actions corporations can expect to see, and how to be prepared. 18 Cozen O'Connor Attorneys Named New York Metro Super Lawyers and Rising Stars September 21, 2018 Super Lawyers has named 17 Cozen O'Connor attorneys to its 2018 New York Super Lawyers and Rising Stars list. Twelve were recognized as Super Lawyers and five were named "Rising Stars." 126 Cozen O’Connor Attorneys Named to the Best Lawyers in America August 22, 2018 One hundred twenty-six Cozen O’Connor lawyers from 20 of the firm’s national offices have been selected for inclusion in the 2018 edition of The Best Lawyers in America. Fifty Cozen O’Connor Attorneys Ranked by Chambers USA 2018 May 21, 2018 Cozen O’Connor is pleased to announce that Chambers USA has recognized 50 Cozen O’Connor attorneys for 2018 as leaders in their respective fields; 12 attorneys were recognized nationally and 14 were ranked in the top band either nationally or at the state level. The ‘people’s lawyers’ v. the POTUS May 02, 2018 Bernard Nash and Lori Kalani, co-chairs of Cozen O’Connor’s State Attorneys General practice, were quoted in the Chicago Daily Law Bulletin regarding the trend of state AGs bringing lawsuits against the federal government, from the Reagan administration to the present. AGs Join Forces to Help Consumers; Get Votes February 22, 2018 JB Kelly, of Cozen O’Connor’s State AG group, was featured in the American Financial Services Association’s Newsbriefs highlighting his remarks at AFSA’s first Law & Compliance Symposium about how AGs develop their investigations against companies. State Attorneys General Group Launches Election Tracker Covering All Primary and General State AG Races February 13, 2018 Thirty states plus the District of Columbia will hold elections for State AG this year, including at least ten open-seat races. AGs appointed by governors or legislatures may change in an additional five states in 2018. State AG Practice Opens Virginia Office January 03, 2018 The Virginia team will be headed by Jerry W. Kilgore, a member of Cozen O’Connor’s State AG practice and former Virginia State Attorney General. Cozen O’Connor’s State AG group is one of the largest and oldest state AG practices in the nation, with a focus on AG-facing investigations, litigation, outreach, and policy. A.G. and Antitrust Law Pioneer: Bernie Nash '66 November 09, 2017 Bernie Nash, co-chair of Cozen O'Connor's State Attorneys General practice, was featured in Brooklyn Law School's alumni notes. SupplySide West Podcast 59: Dissecting State AG Activities in Dietary Supplement Industry September 19, 2017 Lori Kalani, co-chair, and Jerry Kilgore, a member of Cozen O'Connor's State Attorneys General practice, joined Josh Long of Natural Product Insider for his podcast. 100 Cozen O’Connor Lawyers Named to the Best Lawyers in America August 23, 2017 Lawyers were selected for inclusion in the 2018 edition based on a rigorous peer-review that has been developed and defined for more than 30 years. How Law Firms Can Prepare For More State AG Actions June 29, 2017 Bernie Nash and Lori Kalani, both members of Cozen O'Connor's State Attorneys General practice, discuss how law firms can prepare for more State AG actions in Law360. Cozen O’Connor Earns Client Recognition in 2017 Chambers USA Rankings May 26, 2017 Chambers USA recognized 47 Cozen O’Connor lawyers as leaders in their respective fields; 14 attorneys were recognized nationally and 11 were ranked in the top band. Cozen O’Connor’s State Attorneys General Practice to Be Honored for Excellence in Legal Coverage of State AG Issues May 22, 2017 Cozen O’Connor’s State Attorneys General practice group has received the Burton Award’s first “Blog of the Year Award in Law.” The national awards program is held in association with the Library of Congress and co-sponsored by the American Bar Association. Interview of Massachusetts AG Maura Healey by Cozen O'Connor Shareholder Lori Kalani April 25, 2017 Lori Kalani, co-chair of Cozen O’Connor’s State Attorneys General practice, recently had the opportunity to speak to Massachusetts Attorney General Maura Healey about her efforts in concert with other AGs challenging the Trump Administration in several key policy areas, as well as her other priorities and issues of focus as an attorney general. Cozen O’Connor Promotes 17 Attorneys to Membership April 03, 2017 The management committee is pleased to welcome a particularly qualified group to membership, composed of outstanding attorneys who have demonstrated remarkable professionalism, leadership, dedication, and loyalty to the firm and the legal community at large. Jerry Kilgore’s Addition to Cozen O’Connor’s State Attorneys General Practice Featured in National Media February 28, 2017 The expansion of Cozen O’Connor’s leading State Attorneys General practice with the addition Jerry Kilgore has been profiled by The National Journal. Cozen O’Connor Expands State Attorneys General Practice with Addition of Former Virginia State Attorney General Jerry Kilgore February 27, 2017 Cozen O’Connor is pleased to announce that Jerry Kilgore has joined the firm’s State Attorneys General (AG) Practice as a member. CONTACTS Bernard Nash Co-Chair, State Attorneys General bnash@cozen.com (202) 471-3406 Lori Kalani Co-Chair, State Attorneys General lkalani@cozen.com (202) 471-3407 PEOPLE Christopher Allen Member Washington, D.C. Mira E. Baylson Member Philadelphia Ryan P. Bottegal Associate Washington, D.C. Paul W. Connell Member Chicago Hannah Cornett Associate Washington, D.C. Maria Colsey Heard Member Washington, D.C. Lori Kalani Co-Chair, State Attorneys General Washington, D.C. JB Kelly Member Washington, D.C. Jerry W. Kilgore Member Richmond Rachel Bisi Lawlor Associate Washington, D.C. Ann-Marie Luciano Member Washington, D.C. Emily Lundahl Policy Coordinator Washington, D.C. Milton A. Marquis Member Washington, D.C. Bryan Mosca Member Washington, D.C. Bernard Nash Co-Chair, State Attorneys General Washington, D.C. Gianna Puccinelli Associate Washington, D.C. Meghan Stoppel, CIPP/US Member Denver Keturah Taylor Associate Washington, D.C. AWARDS JD Supra Selects Four Cozen O’Connor Attorneys as Top Authors 63 Cozen O’Connor Lawyers, 16 Practices Earn Top Recognition in Chambers USA 2020 Guide RELATED PRACTICE AREAS Antitrust Class Actions Government & Regulatory Government Relations - Cozen O'Connor Public Strategies Product Liability Product Regulatory & Compliance White Collar Defense & Investigations TWEETS BY @STATEAGREPORT Tweets by StateAGReport Keep up-to-date with the latest State Attorneys General news from Cozen O'Connor Enter your City or Zip. SIGN ME UP Sign up to receive alerts, publications, and event / webinar invites. By submitting your contact information, you are giving Cozen O'Connor consent to contact you via email. Full Service International Law Firm Learn More EXPERIENCE ALUMNI BLOGS & PODCASTS CLE PROGRAMS SUBSCRIBE TO PUBLICATIONS Affiliates COZEN O’CONNOR PUBLIC STRATEGIES MARGOLIS HEALY NATIONAL SUBROGATION SERVICES Privacy Policy | Disclaimer | Attorney Advertising