Join us for an informative and interactive workshop designed to help restaurant employers navigate the complex and ever-changing landscape of employment laws in Illinois.

Hosted by attorneys at Epstein Becker Green, along with the Restaurant Law Center and the Illinois Restaurant Association, this event will cover current and trending employment law issues impacting Illinois restaurant employers and help them to prepare for 2024 and beyond.

Speakers will explore the following:

Artificial intelligence issues in the restaurant workplace
Illinois restaurant workplace investigations best practices and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) accommodation issues for restaurant employers
Illinois wage and hour hot spots and compliance tips for restaurants
Navigating the unionization movement in the restaurant industry
Complimentary lunch will be offered as well as a cocktail reception at the conclusion of the program.

AGENDA

1:00–1:45 p.m. (CT): Artificial Intelligence Issues in the Restaurant Workplace
Speakers: Adam S. Forman

This panel will provide an invaluable opportunity to understand the legal intricacies of artificial intelligence (AI) implementation in the restaurant workplace. From combatting algorithmic bias to assisting restaurant employers with complying with their diversity, equity, and inclusion goals, this panel will uncover the multifaceted legal and practical challenges that arise when integrating AI systems into the workplace. Together, we will navigate the AI conundrum and pave the way for responsible and compliant utilization of AI in your restaurant..

2:00–2:45 p.m. (CT): Workplace Investigations Best Practices and ADA Accommodation Issues for Restaurant Employers
Speakers: James (Jimmy) J. Oh, Johner T. Wilson III, and Carolyn O. Boucek

The panel will discuss best practices for conducting workplace investigations into complaints of alleged discrimination or harassment. Speakers will also discuss unique Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) accommodation requests that have become more frequent in the restaurant workplace.

3:00–3:45 p.m. (CT): Illinois Wage and Hour Hot Spots and Compliance Tips for Restaurants 
Speakers: Paul DeCamp, and Kathleen A. Barrett

The panel will identify the wage and hour hot spots that restaurants should have on their radar right now in Illinois, including equal pay registration certificates, pay transparency requirements, tip pools, misclassification risks, and the phasing out of the tip credit in Chicago, and will offer practical compliance considerations.

4:00–4:45 p.m. (CT): Navigating the Unionization Movement in the Restaurant Industry
Speakers: Michael S. Ferrell, and Daniel R. Simandl

The panel will provide attendees with tools to assist employers with navigating the unionization movement that is gaining momentum at restaurants.

4:45–5:30 p.m. (CT): Cocktail Reception