4 to Watch: Do Non-Compete Agreements Hurt Innovation in the U.S.?

1. Do Non-Competes Stifle Innovation?

Numerous experts say the key to a thriving economy is small business. But what happens if your big employer stops you from starting your own company? Non-compete agreements are becoming more common – and some say they pose a major threat to our economy. Distil Networks CEO Rami Essaid, who got sued over a non-compete clause in his contract, says in any kind of industry, innovation is a way to build a better contract. And he says any contract that says you can’t improve on your experience hinders innovation and the path for new businesses to grow. On the other side of the argument, LevelEleven CEO Bob Marsh say non-compete agreements offer protection to businesses against malicious or destructive former employees.

2. Home Improvements: DIY or Hire a Pro?

Why pay someone when you can do it yourself? Right now, 64% of homeowners are planning DIY projects, but are some tasks better off left to the pros? ‘Today’s Homeowner’ host Danny Lipford says he can do just about anything around the house, but says some projects are better off in the hands of experts, like electrical and plumbing tasks. Lipford says for any kind of project, it’s best to start off with baby steps to build up your confidence and test your skills.

3. Aid to Egypt Still Important to U.S. National Interest?

Does the military-backed government in Egypt have the best interests of the U.S. at heart? FNC military analyst Lt. Gen. Tom McInerney, USAF (Ret.) says he hopes we do not cut off aid to Egypt, as it’s a lynchpin in the Middle East. He says we must maintain the relationship with the military in Egypt, as the Muslim Brotherhood is a “softer” version of Al Qaeda.

4. Would a Minimum Wage Increase Be a Jobs Killer?

Fast-food workers are making a concerted push to double the minimum wage to $15, with unions encouraging the movement. Wal-Mart recently backed out of plans to open stores in Washington, D.C. due to the high minimum wage, and former McDonald’s USA CEO Edward Rensi says that the big-box retailer won’t be the only one canceling projects. Rensi says minimum-wage jobs were never intended to provide long-term career options, and the debate deflects attention from the need to create real jobs in the United States.