News
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.
News
Indiana University’s Vaccination Policy Decision Appealed
By Maritza Guevara |
As expected, Ryan Klaassen et. al., v. The Trustees of Indiana University, on July 20, 2021, appealed a federal district court judge’s July 18, 2021 decision upholding, at least preliminary, the University’s COVID-19 vaccination policy.
Amendment of Code of Civil Procedure Impacts Opioid Litigation for School Districts and Units of Local Government
By Maritza Guevara |
On July 9th, 2021, Public Act 102-0085 was signed into Law. The act went into effect immediately, and has ramifications for School Districts and Local Governments. Read more on how you may be impacted!
CDC Releases Updated COVID-19 Prevention Guidance for K–12 Schools
By Maritza Guevara |
The CDC has once again updated it's guidance for COVID-19 Prevention in K-12 Schools. The most recent updated guidance was fully adopted by ISBE and IDPH, so there will likely be changes to the upcoming 2021-2022 school year.
Sunset Provision Limits Broad School District Authority to Make Interfund Transfers
By Maritza Guevara |
For many years, thanks to a 2003 amendment, Section 17-2A temporarily permitted unrestricted transfers between a school district’s principal operating funds. However, the most recent extension period expired without further amendment on June 30, 2021.
New Legislation Opens the Door for Educational Support Personnel to Receive Unemployment Benefits Over the 2021 Summer Break
By Maritza Guevara |
On June 25, 2021, Governor J.B. Pritzker signed House Bill 2643 into law as Public Act 102-0026, which opens the door for educational support personnel to receive unemployment insurance benefits during the 2021 summer break.
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.
Illinois Lawmakers Approve Legislation to Make Taxing Districts Whole For Property Tax Refunds
By Maritza Guevara |
Late last night, while you were sleeping, the Illinois Senate and House of Representatives quietly passed House Floor Amendment # 5 to Senate Bill 508 (“SB 508”), which would create a new Section 18-233 of the Illinois Property Tax Code. Section 18-233 automatically increases taxing district levies to make taxing districts whole for all refunds that result from Property Tax Appeal Board (“PTAB”) reductions, Circuit Court Orders in assessment cases, and Certificates of Error resulting from assessment mistakes.
EEOC Gives a Nod to Employer Incentives for COVID-19 Vaccination
By Maritza Guevara |
On May 28, 2021, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) issued long-awaited guidance addressing employer incentives for COVID-19 vaccination. In short, employer incentives are generally permissible under the Americans with…
Family and Medical Leave for Illinois Educational Employees
By Maritza Guevara |
On May 26, 2021, both houses of the Illinois General Assembly passed a law amending the Illinois Public Community Act and the Illinois School Code to provide family and medical…