Trade Secrets and Navigating FTC's Noncompete Rule to Maintain a Competitive Advantage

This CLE webinar will provide guidance on the new FTC ban on noncompetes and the implications for trade secret protection. The panel will discuss the growing importance of trade secret protection programs in light of recent FTC-driven changes. The panel will offer best practices for developing a trade secret program without noncompete protections.

On Apr. 23, 2024, the FTC issued a final rule that bans noncompete provisions nationwide. The intent of the rule is to protect the freedom of workers to change jobs. Under the final rule, existing noncompetes for most workers will no longer be enforceable after the rule's Sept. 4, 2024, effective date. While the final rule does not deviate far from the January 2023 proposed rule, it does not ban existing noncompetes for senior executives as defined in the rule.

However, the fallout of the ban is putting trade secrets at risk. Protecting company innovations is a critical part of any organization's long-term success.

Companies and their counsel should examine what other IP protections and additional tools are available to protect trade secrets. Further, they should review and update contracts that address trade secrets as well as employee contracts.

Listen as our authoritative panel examines the new FTC ban on noncompetes. The panel will discuss the growing importance of trade secret protection programs in light of recent FTC-driven changes. The panel will offer best practices for developing a trade secret program without noncompete protections.