The FTC's ban on noncompete agreements was struck down by a Texas federal judge Aug. 20, according to The Wall Street Journal.
Ada Brown, a U.S. District Judge, ruled the FTC wasn't able to use its power to completely ban noncompetes. The decision to ban noncompetes is controversial among healthcare providers and ASC leaders. Some see the ban as making it easier for physicians to leave hospital employment and enter private practice, while others are wary of the effect it could have on ASC staff and physician owners.
Ms. Brown said the FTC's ban was "unreasonably overbroad without a reasonable explanation." The rule was supposed to take effect Sept. 4.
The FTC is weighing its options for next steps, according to the report, and aims to keep fighting policies restrictive for workers.