New York's legalization of recreational marijuana use is creating safety and liability concerns for the state's construction industry, experts say. The lack of a standard test for marijuana impairment means contractors must determine how to assess whether a worker is impaired on the job, and that risk could lead to higher workers' compensation prices, a construction trade group executive says.

Wealthy people who have been managing their own investments, especially those with a financial background, can be loathe to turn over even some control to a financial advisor, writes Jonathan Bergman of TAG Associates. Bergman has developed a playbook to show these individuals the value of working with an advisor while still retaining control over their finances.

Financial advisors can do several things to help avoid burnout in the coronavirus-induced virtual work environment, writes Laura Cheeley of RBC Wealth Management US. Among Cheeley's recommendations are staying positive, establishing boundaries with clients and employees, and taking time off.

The big increase in the money supply in the US is devaluing bonds, leading some financial experts to question the wisdom of a traditional investment portfolio of 60% stocks and 40% bonds. However, some advisors say they are staying the course, pointing to the long-term track record of the strategy's success in providing solid returns while reducing risk.

The Dodge Momentum Index in March reached its highest reading since summer 2018, which potentially indicates growing stability in the public building market.

Contractor confidence regarding profit, sales and staffing has grown stronger, but supply chain problems and rising material prices are sources of concern. Cost estimates for projects that have been paused during the coronavirus pandemic might have ballooned as material costs are recalculated, experts say.

Construction companies in Canada should stay in communication with their sureties regarding pandemic-related risks, an executive writes. They also should harness the benefits of technology such as electronic bonds, which offer security, streamlined delivery and a reduced risk of errors, the executive writes.

False Claims Act recoveries were at historic lows this past fiscal year, but enforcement appears poised to increase under the Biden administration, three attorneys write. One major factor contributing to heightened enforcement will be the close monitoring of potential fraud in government programs addressing the coronavirus pandemic and economic recovery, they write.

Building owners and developers are hopeful that architects, engineers and contractors will offer more than cost-cutting solutions, according to a survey. Appetite is strong for innovations regarding energy efficiency, product delivery and occupant health, the survey found.

The coronavirus pandemic has forced financial advisors to adjust their marketing, but some fundamental truths still apply, Matt Oechsli writes. He lists five of them and how they have been adjusted because of the pandemic.