COVID-19: Emergency Financial Assistance for Illinois Small Businesses In the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (IDCEO) has created three programs offering emergency financial assistance to small businesses. Under these programs, Illinois businesses with fewer than 50 employees can apply for low- interest loans and grants. The first program has an April 1st deadline, so…
Since 1967, the Freedom of Information Act (“FOIA”) has provided the public the right to request access to records from any federal agency. Federal agencies are required to disclose any information requested under the FOIA unless it falls under one of nine statutory exemptions. FOIA Exemption 4 of the 5 U.S.C. §552(b)(4) prevents mandatory…
Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker recently signed into law an omnibus bill aimed at limiting harassment and discrimination within the workplace. The bill amends the Illinois Human Rights Act by requiring annual trainings and disclosures. Additionally, the bill enacts two new laws that may impact Illinois employers: the Workplace Transparency Act and the Sexual Harassment…
In January 2015, Illinois became the first state to fully enact legislation requiring that private-sector employers offer their workers retirement benefits. Now as employer registration deadlines for mid-sized and small companies approach, local businesses are on notice to take appropriate action steps to ensure they comply with the Illinois Secure Choice Savings Program Act to avoid per-employee…
