Employers and workers need clear, consistent and compliance-oriented workplace policy from the U.S. Department of Labor’s new leadership, according to SHRM, the U.S.-based human resources association.
The association said it plans to keep working closely with Keith Sonderling, who was confirmed as secretary of labour this week, to push for greater certainty in workplace rules as technology reshapes how work gets done.
“Employers and workers benefit from clear, consistent, and compliance-oriented workplace policy,” said Emily M. Dickens, chief administrative officer at SHRM. “SHRM looks forward to continuing its longstanding engagement with Secretary Sonderling and the Department to provide greater clarity and certainty, strengthen the American workforce, and ensure innovation expands opportunity while keeping people at the center of work.”
The statement, issued from Alexandria, Va., followed a Senate vote that ended months of acting leadership at the department. The Senate confirmed Sonderling by a vote of 47-41 on Sept. 30, cementing a leadership role he has held on an acting basis since April. shrm
SHRM framed the confirmation as important for stability at a time of rapid change in the workplace.
“SHRM congratulates Keith Sonderling on his confirmation as U.S. Secretary of Labor. Confirmed leadership at the Department is critical as employers and workers navigate a rapidly changing world of work,” said Dickens.
The association pointed to Sonderling’s background at both the Department of Labor and the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission as a strength. Before becoming acting secretary, he served as deputy secretary of labour after a 53-46 Senate confirmation vote in March 2025. planadviser
“Secretary Sonderling brings a strong record of public service and deep experience with the issues facing America’s workplaces,” said Dickens. “His leadership across the Department of Labor and the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission provides valuable perspective as workforce policy keeps pace with changes in technology, skills, and the way work gets done.”
Sonderling enters the job with an agenda focused on compliance assistance, deregulation, apprenticeships, preparing workers for artificial intelligence and increased scrutiny of fraud in federal labour programs, according to SHRM.
