Most working Americans today believe that changes in federal policy will affect their lives more than new tech innovations like AI, according to a recent survey from Justworks and The Harris Poll. In fact, three out of five U.S. workers think government policy shifts will hit closer to home in the coming year than the rise of artificial intelligence. That sentiment stretches across industries and roles, from startups to big corporations.
At the same time, a large portion of the workforce is turning to their HR departments for help. Around 45% say they want HR to help break down the latest policy updates—everything from tax law adjustments to tariff changes. But the reality is, most workers are feeling pretty overwhelmed. Over half admitted they can’t keep up with what’s going on in Washington, and many are uncertain about what it all means for their jobs and paychecks. This confusion is especially common in small businesses, where 46% of employees said they don’t feel informed about policy changes.
Employees aren’t just worried about legislation—they’re also bracing for possible cutbacks, layoffs, and shifts in workplace culture. There’s still some concern about inflation and economic downturns, though those fears have eased a bit compared to last year. Despite that, people are playing it safe: saving more, launching side gigs, and staying on the lookout for better opportunities. Job-seeking habits like updating resumes and researching salary ranges haven’t slowed down.
HR teams are under pressure. They’re being asked to do more, especially when it comes to navigating a maze of compliance and regulation while keeping employees informed and confident. The upside? This also gives HR leaders a real shot at building more transparent, resilient workplaces.
Mental health is another area where employees are looking for more support. More than half of the workforce feels they have to push through burnout or stress without taking time off. Reports from Modern Health show workers are increasingly interested in mental health programs, burnout management tools, and crisis response training.
The bottom line is simple: change is coming from multiple directions—policy, technology, and global events. Employees want clarity, support, and resources. For businesses, that means stepping up communication, investing in HR, and meeting people where they are. Doing so won’t just keep teams afloat—it’ll help them thrive.
