Event Details

Register via the link below:

https://rockford.shrm.org/forms/rockford-area-february-2026-legal-update

AGENDA:

8:00-8:15:   Register and light breakfast provided
8:15-8:20:   Welcome from the Board
8:20-8:30:   Word from Sponsor - M3 Insurance 
8:30-10:30:   Presentation

PRESENTATION INFORMATION: 

2026 Legal Update: Navigating Changes in Employment Law

The Rockford Area SHRM February meeting will be held on February 25th at NIU Rockford and will feature our 2026 Legal Update, a must-attend session for HR professionals navigating an evolving employment law landscape.

This year’s legal update will be presented by Jim Pirages and Maryjo Pirages Reynolds of AGHL, along with Sam Castree of Staff Management Inc. All three speakers are seasoned employment law attorneys with extensive experience advising employers on compliance, risk management, and workforce strategy. The session will provide an overview of new and updated federal and Illinois employment laws, recent court decisions, and regulatory changes impacting HR practices in 2026. Topics will include key compliance updates, employer obligations, and practical guidance to help HR professionals mitigate risk and ensure policies and practices align with current legal requirements. Attendees will leave with actionable insights and a clearer understanding of how recent legal developments affect hiring, employee relations, policies, and workplace compliance.

PRESENTERS: 

Jim Pirages, AGHL LAW
Jim has more than 40 years experience representing management and employers in labor and employment matters. He handles proceeding with the NLRB and IL State Labor Relations Board, deals with EEOC and IDHR discrimination charges against employers, and advises clients in matters involving OSHA inspections and citations. He represents clients with wage and hour matters, acts on behalf of the employer in union relations, collective bargaining negotiations, advises on discipline and discharge matters, and benefit obligations. Mr. Pirages provides guidance with personnel guidelines, employee handbooks, and affirmative action programs.

Sam Castree, Staff Management
Sam is the Sr. VP and General Counsel for Staff Management, joining the organization in 1995. Sam oversees the firm's human resources management outsourcing services and a wide range of employment compliance activities. Prior to his role with Staff Management, he has a private law practice, counseling management on a full range of employment law issues and policies.

Sponsor: M3 Insurance 

We look forward to seeing you there!

Rockford Area SHRM is a professional association serving the greater Rockford area. We are dedicated to professional development and building community for individuals who regularly engage in some aspect of the human resources profession.

The mission of Rockford Area SHRM is to advance the human resources professional by providing opportunities to share best practices through experiences, education and networking.

Members of the Rockford Area SHRM are able to attend most events at no additional cost. You will find events at https://rockford.shrm.org/. Be sure to register for events through the website.