East Central Reporter

Illinois employers can take advantage of an online seminar event covering legal aspects of pregnancy discrimination from 10:30 a.m. to noon tomorrow, March 10, sponsored by Chicago-area law firm SmithAmundsen LLC.

Taught by attorney Jamie Kauther, the workshop is entitled “Pregnancy Discrimination: What Illinois Employers MUST Know,” and is now open for registration. Material covers changes made in Illinois law since Jan. 1, 2015, when the state legislature amended the Illinois Human Rights Act to include accommodations for employees’ pregnancy and childbirth needs.

Because the amendment is relatively recent, its content is currently open to interpretation by human rights agencies and the courts, as language describing the extent of accommodations has yet to be clarified. For example, questions may arise as to whether the scope extends to infertility treatments and other medical interventions.

To that end, this workshop serves the interests of business owners by expanding the law's impact on everyday operations. The Illinois Chamber of Commerce claims no other state currently has a statute of this extent. In order to understand the law, preserve accountability and protect liability status, business owners are encouraged to sign up and get the scoop on compliance.

Those signing up as Illinois Chamber members will receive the reduced price of $129 -- regular price is $159. Professional Development and other types of credits are available for participation. To sign up, visit www.ilchamber.org/events.