Is My Business Essential?

Is My Business Essential? With the new normal in the State of Illinois and the US, the more pertinent question is “will I be able to stay in business?”  The short answer is a definite probably. On March 21, 2020 Governor JB Pritzker signed into law Executive Order No. 8 Stay at Home; Social Distancing Requirements;  and Essential Business and...

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Non-Compete Agreements and Non-Management Employees

A common question we are asked is whether employers may require non-management personnel to sign a non-compete agreement. The answer is yes, but there are limitations of which employers should be aware.  To be enforceable in the State of Illinois, the agreement must (1) have adequate consideration, (2) be reasonably necessary to protect the...

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Gender Identity and the Workplace

Gender identity is a protected class against discrimination under the Illinois Human Rights Act.[1] http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs5.asp?ActID=2266 The law protects employees against discrimination in all terms and conditions of employment, including hiring, selection, promotion, transfer, pay, tenure, discharge, and discipline. To...

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A WOMAN’S RIGHT TO BIRTH CONTROL VS. RELIGIOUS RIGHTS

On June 30th, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in favor of three family-owned businesses, with the majority of the court saying that businesses can refuse to pay for certain forms of contraception they find “morally repugnant.”  At issue are four contraceptives known as abortifacients which are contraceptives that prevent ovum implantation or cause a...

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Medical Marijuana in Illinois

  On January 1, 2014, it became legal for patients with diseases or conditions currently specified by the Act to use marijuana for medical purposes.  Under the Compassionate Use of Medical Cannabis Pilot Program Act, these patients must be registered with the Illinois Department of Public Health and may purchase up to 2.5 ounces of marijuana...

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Firearm Concealed Carry Act – How can you as an Employer and Business protect yourself, your employees and customers?

The year 2014 brings many changes that affect not only the workplace but how you conduct business in Illinois.   On July 9th, 2013, Illinois became the last state to allow individuals to carry concealed weapons. Although it became law in 2013, we are just now feeling the effects of its enactment.  Over 23,000 people in Illinois have applied for...

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