Sometimes it’s hard to appreciate how things have changed since the pandemic hit and the challenges we face going forward.

I was thinking about all those little things over the weekend when I put pocket change in my little “change jar” that I keep in my bedroom.

You see, prior to the pandemic, at the end of each day, I’d empty my pockets of whatever change I had from the day.  And about every four to six months, the jar would be full and I’d cash it in at one of those coin-counting machines in the grocery store.

But I realized over the weekend — I haven’t even come close to filling up the jar and it’s been nearly 3 years since I last did so.

I’m just not using paper and coin currency like I used to.

Now think to your workplace and all the changes that have occurred over the last few years. Prior to the pandemic, our firm would produce an in-person morning seminar for clients.  But now we’ve pivoted to webinars.

And not just one of them — but five!  And we’re covering all the topics that employers are facing today including:

  • Continuation of remote work, reductions in force, separation agreements, slowdowns
  • Connecticut Paid Family Leave and Connecticut FMLA
  • How to write a noncompete/nonsolicitation agreement and latest developments in the use of restrictive covenants
  • Handling EEOC/CHRO discrimination complaints and how to conduct internal investigations
  • A review of 2022 legislative updates with a look ahead to 2023
  • Recreational marijuana – new laws, drug and alcohol policies and off-duty conduct
  • I-9/immigration updates

The fall webinar series starts Tuesday, October 11th and runs weekly (except for the last week where we will have two programs).

The best part? It’s free to all.  You can register at the following link.  Hope you can join us.

A more detailed description of each webinar is below:

Program Agenda

  • “Start Me Up” – Restrictive Covenants and Non-Compete Agreements
    October 11, 2022 | 12 Noon – 1PM EDT
    The use of non-compete agreements and restrictive covenants such as non-solicitation provisions has become a popular topic as employers look to protect their companies. But when should you use one? What should be in it? What are the legal limits and what considerations should companies be looking at for remote employees?
  • “Private Eyes” – Responding to Discrimination Complaints and Conducting Investigations
    October 18, 2022 | 8:30 AM – 9:30 AM   EDT
    You just received a CHRO or EEOC complaint via e-mail. What next? What should you expect? Employers can often reduce legal risks by handling discrimination and harassment complaints quickly and carefully.  Even if the complaints come in internally, employers have a duty to respond. Failure to take the necessary steps up front may lead to difficulties down the line. This program will provide the latest best practices in responding to such complaints.
  • “Summer Renaissance” – Everything You Need To Know In Labor and Employment Law in 2022 But Were Afraid to Ask
    October 25, 2022 | 12 Noon – 1PM EDT
    With the legislature back in session this year and state and federal agencies renewing their oversight of such laws, there’s been plenty for employers to keep track of. We invite you to join us for a year in review with a preview of what’s ahead as we explore the top things you need to know. Topics will include: CT FMLA regulations, captive audience rules, paid family leave, NLRB updates, mandatory arbitration agreements, and I-9 and immigration updates.
  • “Danger Zone” – Reductions in Workforce, Separation Agreements, and Statistics
    November 1, 2022 | 12 Noon – 1PM EDT
    When economic indicators point toward a downturn, employers may need to take measures to reduce costs and increase operational efficiency.. A reduction in force (RIF) is one of the many routes employers may choose to take—often a particularly difficult decision to make along with the use of severance agreements. But there are many pitfalls, including disparate impact analyses and compliance with age discrimination laws. This program will provide important guidance as employers plan for the next year.
  • “High Hopes” – How Legalized Cannabis is Impacting the Workplace, Including Drug Testing and Policies
    November 3, 2022 | 12 Noon – 1PM EDT
    By popular demand from last year, we revisit the topic of legalized cannabis and its impact in the workplace. Indeed, new workplace laws are now in effect since July 1, 2022 that may impact employers’ ability to test for cannabis and take action. These new laws also address smoking and have had employers reconsidering their drug and alcohol policies as well.  When do you need to refresh your drug and alcohol policies, and what does ‘off-duty’ conduct really mean?