In Brief
We cultivate a collaborative, inclusive culture where our team shares knowledge and stays informed on legal developments. We value diversity, as different perspectives strengthen our ability to solve problems and advocate effectively. Beyond our legal services, we prioritize building relationships through internal events that promote camaraderie and a positive environment. This culture empowers us to deliver exceptional legal services and contributions to our clients and communities.
In Brief
Governor Signs More Labor & Employment Bills Impacting School Districts Into Law
By Maritza Guevara |
In a further follow-up to our firm’s July 27, 2021, webinar titled “Wading Through the Waters of the Spring 2021 Legislative Session”, we report that the following bills have been signed into law.
Student Free Speech Examined by U.S. Supreme Court Case
By Maritza Guevara |
On June 23, 2021, the Supreme Court decided that suspension of a student from a school district’s junior varsity cheerleading team based upon two Snapchat stories posted by the student was improper under the First Amendment.
ISBE RESOLUTION SUPPORTING IN-PERSON LEARNING
By Maritza Guevara |
Upon their unanimous adoption of the Resolution Supporting In-Person Learning, the Illinois State Board of Education (“ISBE”) received numerous questions about the Resolution and its implications.
Masks, No Masks and Other Things: You’ve Got Questions, We’ve Got Answers
By Maritza Guevara |
Governor Pritzker’s announcement yesterday that Illinois has aligned its mask guidance with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has raised many questions, including what authority controls (federal, state, local), what phase Illinois is in, and whether Illinois is operating under a disaster proclamation. This publication will answer some of the more pressing questions for the educational, municipal, and private sector entities.
Overview of Sweeping Criminal Justice Reforms Signed Into Law
By Maritza Guevara |
On February 22, 2021, Governor JB Pritzker signed into law Public Act 101-0652, which includes sweeping criminal justice reforms that will have a significant impact on law enforcement agencies and officers across the state
Community Colleges to Face New Requirements for Student Placement and Developmental Education
By Maritza Guevara |
On January 11, 2021, the Illinois legislature passed House Bill 2170, which will introduce sweeping educational reforms if Governor Pritzker signs the bill as expected. While most of the bill…
New Omnibus Legislation Has Broad Implications for Illinois K-12 Districts
By Maritza Guevara |
On January 11, 2021, House Bill 2170 officially passed the Illinois legislature and is currently awaiting Governor Pritzker’s signature. HB 2170, which was backed by the Black legislative caucus, was…
2021 AMENDMENTS TO THE STUDENT ONLINE PERSONAL PROTECTION ACT
By Maritza Guevara |
With school districts utilizing more software and remote learning tools than ever before due to the COVID-19 pandemic, there is an increased need to ensure student data and personally identifiable student information is protected.
COMING SOON: LIMITS ON EMPLOYERS’ USE OF CRIMINAL CONVICTION RECORDS, EQUAL PAY REGISTRATION, AND EXTENDED PANDEMIC MEASURES
By Maritza Guevara |
Last week the Illinois legislature passed two bills that may significantly impact many employers. If signed, SB 1480 will limit the use of criminal conviction records in employment decisions and create requirements for some private employers to obtain equal pay registration certificates.
Extensive Law Enforcement Reform Bill Awaits Signature
By Maritza Guevara |
Just before its two-year legislative cycle ended on Wednesday, the Illinois legislature passed HB 3653, a 764-page bill that is expected to make extensive changes to law enforcement throughout the state. Governor Pritzker has expressed support for HB 3653, and some provisions will go into effect as early as July 1, 2021 if he signs the bill.