Should the FTC Ban Non-compete Clauses?
Open to Debate24 Mar 2023

Should the FTC Ban Non-compete Clauses?

This year, the Federal Trade Commission decided shake up the labor market, proposing to ban non-compete clauses for the tens of millions of workers they affect. The clauses are essentially contracts between employers and employees that prohibit the former from competing with the business after the employment has ended. As many as 30% of all U.S. private sector workers have signed such agreements, which actually find their roots all the way back in 15th century England. Those who defend such clauses say employers need these contracts to protect their investments in training workers, not to mention safeguarding their trade secrets. The contracts, they say, represent not only a fair exchange, but also serve as an important fortification for businesses within the broader economy. The FTC, they say, is overextending. But opponents argue that such contracts prevent workers from starting their own businesses, locking them into undercompensated positions, and depress labor mobility and wage growth, while contributing to race and gender gaps. It is in this context that we debate the following question: Should the FTC Ban Non-compete Clauses? Arguing Yes: Arguing “YES”: Heidi Shierholz, Economic Policy Institute President and former Chief Economist to the U.S. Secretary of Labor. Arguing No: Neil Bradley, Executive Vice President, Chief Policy Officer, and Head of Strategic Advocacy, U.S. Chamber of Commerce Emmy award-winning journalist John Donvan moderates Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Episoder(455)

Could Dating an AI Be Better Than Dating a Human?

Could Dating an AI Be Better Than Dating a Human?

Love in the time of AI? Some people seeking romance or friendship are turning to AI chatbots to fulfill those desires, but could they surpass traditional human relationships? Those who say they can ar...

13 Feb 53min

Is U.S. Control of Limited Territory in Greenland A Strategic Necessity?

Is U.S. Control of Limited Territory in Greenland A Strategic Necessity?

Greenland has become a geopolitical flashpoint. President Trump wants control of it, or at least sovereignty over some areas for military purposes, arguing that the United States gaining some territor...

6 Feb 53min

Legalize Assisted Suicide?

Legalize Assisted Suicide?

In December of 2025, New York State Governor Kathy Hochul announced that after months of negotiations with the state legislature, she was finally ready to sign into law a new bill allowing some patien...

30 Jan 53min

Innovation or Intrusion: The Big Data Debate

Innovation or Intrusion: The Big Data Debate

Every click, search, and online purchase feeds the data economy, driving AI, global business, and even political campaigns. But with risks growing in the private and public spheres, is Big Data advanc...

23 Jan 53min

Is It OK to Pay for Sex?

Is It OK to Pay for Sex?

Prostitution remains heavily stigmatized and legally complex globally. Those in favor of paying for sex and support decriminalization argue that it’s a profession that deserves as much respect as any ...

16 Jan 53min

Does AA Work?

Does AA Work?

Millions of people have credited Alcoholics Anonymous with helping them stay sober from alcohol, but is it the best path for everyone? Those who say “yes” argue it is easily accessible to all and that...

9 Jan 53min

Has Feminism Hurt Women?

Has Feminism Hurt Women?

From the 19th Amendment to the #MeToo movement, the feminist movement has profoundly reshaped society. But have its good intentions backfired? Those arguing it hasn’t note that it’s allowed women the ...

2 Jan 53min

Can Religion Cure the Loneliness Epidemic?

Can Religion Cure the Loneliness Epidemic?

America is suffering from a loneliness epidemic. Some groups have suggested religious communities may be key to solving it. Could it help? Those arguing “yes” say it gives people regular social contac...

26 Des 202553min

Populært innen Politikk og nyheter

giver-og-gjengen-vg
aftenpodden
aftenpodden-usa
popradet
stopp-verden
forklart
lydartikler-fra-aftenposten
det-store-bildet
dine-penger-pengeradet
rss-ness
nokon-ma-ga
rss-gukild-johaug
hanna-de-heldige
fotballpodden-2
aftenbla-bla
rss-dannet-uten-piano
e24-podden
rss-utenrikskomiteen-med-bogen-og-grasvik
rss-penger-polser-og-politikk
bt-dokumentar-2