Downtown Aquarium

Legal Forum: Navigating the Future of Workforce Legislation

Step into a new era of legal insights and engaging discourse at the Legal Forum, hosted by Mile High SHRM. Previously known as the Quarterly Education Event, we're thrilled to announce our fresh forum format, featuring a lineup of distinguished speakers who are ready to equip you with the essential knowledge for thriving in today's ever-evolving workforce landscape.

Join us for an afternoon of thought-provoking discussions as we explore the pivotal changes shaping the HR realm, from the intricate layers of employment law to groundbreaking shifts in workforce policies. This isn't just an event; it's a chance to connect with fellow thought leaders and gain actionable insights into how you can adapt and excel in your field.

Register today and take the first step towards not just keeping up, but leading the charge in workforce transformation!

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Agenda

11:00 AM - 11:30 AM Membership 101

11:30 AM- 12:15 PM Networking and Lunch

12:15 PM - 1:00 PM Session 1

1:10 PM - 1:55 PM Session 2

2:05 PM - 2:50 PM Session 3

3:00 PM - 3:45 PM Session 4

Session 1: Adapting to Legal Changes: What Employers Need to Know for the New Administration

Presented by Stephen Rotter

With a new administration in place and an unprecedented amount of new executive orders and directives, workplace regulations and compliance requirements are rapidly evolving, directly impacting businesses. Employers must stay informed and be proactive to navigate these changes, including the impact on DEI initiatives, EEOC and NLRB agendas, and other federal government demands on the workplace.  This session will break down the latest legal updates and provide key strategies to help organizations remain compliant and protect their workforce.

Session 2: Protecting Business Interests: Key Things for Employers to Know in 2025 

Presented By: Emily Tichenor

In this session, we will discuss steps a company can take to protect its business interests, such as restrictive covenants, confidentiality provisions, and non-disparagement provisions. We will also discuss the National Labor Relations Act, including its considerations for non-union employers, and what employers should keep in mind in 2025.

Session 3: Navigating the Colorado Artificial Intelligence (AI) Act: Implications for Employment Law 

Presented By: William Cusack

Join us for an in-depth presentation on the Colorado Artificial Intelligence (AI) Act and its significant implications for employment law. This session will explore how the Act intersects with workplace practices, employee rights, and employer responsibilities, providing a clear understanding of the new legal landscape for AI in employment. 

Session 4: Overtime Exemption Refresher 

Presented By: Steven Eheart

This session will level-set your core knowledge about federal and state requirements to classify employees as exempt employees.

Now's the right time to level-set. After all, in 2024, Colorado HR professionals got whiplash from changes to the salary threshold requirements for exempt employees. First, HR professionals had to ensure that they complied with Colorado's annual salary threshold increase that went into effect on January 1. Next, the federal government announced new regulations that would eventually increase the federal threshold above Colorado's threshold, and HR professionals had to start planning for that significant change. Then, a court struck down the new federal salary thresholds, making all that planning unusable. And, of course, HR professionals then had to plan to comply with Colorado's increased threshold in January 2025. Meanwhile, Colorado HR professionals also had to ensure that exempt employees continued to satisfy job duties tests under both federal and Colorado law.

Join us as we review these recent changes and double-check our core knowledge of federal and state requirements for exempt employees. 

Presenters:

William F Cusack

William Cusack is a distinguished employment law attorney specializing in representing employers across a spectrum of issues, including discrimination, retaliation, labor relations, ERISA benefits, and wage and hour claims. With a wealth of experience, he has successfully defended hospitals, businesses, housing corporations, and public authorities against discrimination and retaliation allegations. Will provides strategic counsel to housing associations, conducts training on antidiscrimination laws, and advises on the full spectrum of employer-employee relations, from hiring to separation. He holds a JD from Seton Hall University School of Law and a BA from the University of Dayton.

Steven Eheart

As a former HR director, Steven draws from his industry experience to provide pragmatic counsel to clients to avoid or navigate employment law disputes. Steven advises and defends clients in a wide range of employment law matters. He partners closely with key client/company stakeholders to prevent issues from arising between management and staff. When disputes escalate, Steven guides clients through the resolution process through clear, actionable/practical communication. Steven supports clients in defense against claims of discrimination, discipline and terminations, accommodations, and charges before the EEOC and state agencies. He brings particular experience navigating the intricacies of California’s unique PAGA statute. Before stepping into his role as an attorney, Steven started his professional career working with nonprofit organizations of various sizes. Prior to joining Holland & Hart, Steven worked at a boutique employment law firm in San Diego. Steven is licensed to practice in Colorado and California.

Stephen Rotter

Clients of The Workplace Counsel appreciate Mr. Rotter's practical advice, leading to efficient and successful results whether involving litigation, investigations, or settlement. Mr. Rotter provides advice and counsel to companies on everyday employment issues in addition to complex problems affecting his clients' ability to operate as effectively as possible. Mr. Rotter also conducts human resources and management training in an effort to assist clients with creating and developing positive workplaces and litigation avoidance.

Emily Tichenor

Emily Tichenor is a shareholder at in Polsinelli’s Denver office. She helps employers of all sizes and in a variety of industries stay compliant with ever-changing federal and state employment laws, including those regarding wage and hour, equal employment opportunity, leaves and restrictive covenants. Emily partners with employers to develop policies and procedures and provide day-to-day guidance tailored to the unique needs of each employer, its workforce and workplace culture. Emily also drafts agreements, including employment agreements, bonus agreements, and separation agreements, to help protect employers and reduce the risk of a dispute with an employee. She further supports employers during transactions by conducting due diligence to help spot potential pitfalls and take steps to ensure a smooth employment transition post-closing. Emily earned her undergraduate degree at Baylor University and her law degree at Washington & Lee University.

PENDING APPROVAL FOR 4 SHRM & 4 HRCI GENERAL CREDITS

All Access Package Holders: $0; Members: $50; Non-Members: $75