AI in hiring: Experts say job seekers should use AI to research employers and tailor materials, but avoid over-relying on “AI-generated” applications that can backfire with recruiters. Workplace privacy: A German court weighed in on eavesdropping at work after a hidden listening device was found, focusing on when employer liability applies and what duty-of-care steps were taken. Layoffs & workforce planning: Heliene USA laid off about 93 employees at its Mountain Iron, Minnesota solar plant as it reduces operations after opening a new site nearby. Teacher staffing: A school board update highlighted teacher and support vacancies plus turnover tracking, underscoring how HR data is being used to plan recruitment. Paid leave policy: The Trump administration expanded the employer tax credit for paid family and medical leave, aiming to broaden access via incentives. Global HR tech: Borderless AI launched Alberni, an AI “legal operating system” for global employment law and entity management. Health workforce pipeline: Vermont Veterans’ Home celebrated graduation of its 2026 LNA class, feeding the care workforce. Insurance for workers: Guardian Life and Bangladesh’s BKMEA agreed to expand insurance and telemedicine access for knitwear workers. HR records access: OPM rolled out a faster way for former federal employees to request personnel files through its eOPF tools. Labor market support: Oman’s Ministry of Labour launched a Seasonal Work Platform to match job-seekers with seasonal roles.