You would think that by the year 2026, employment law, which addresses such a fundamental aspect of our lives, would be well settled. However, it is anything but settled! Employment laws continue to evolve as societal norms, technology, and expectations evolve. Dramatic events, such as global pandemics, can create significant shifts, but there are always ongoing changes in our legislation and case law as well as changes to best practices. Keeping up to date is critical.
Commentators often refer to the laws of employment as a pendulum that goes back and forth as the courts try to balance the legitimate business interests of employers with the rights of the individual. Currently, that pendulum is further on the employee side than ever in many respects.
This session will address timely issues such as:
Terminations and termination clauses;
Accommodation, including addressing neurodiversity;
The ongoing battle over the return to the office vs remote work;
What employment litigation looks like in 2026; and
The use of artificial intelligence in HR and how you should prepare your workplace for it.
Participants will learn:
Understanding the current state of law so you can manage your workforce while controlling labour costs
Understanding how to address issues such as the desire to have people work in the office as it competes with individual preferences to work remotely, as well as how to handle requests for accommodation without exposing the organization to liability.
Assessing the potential impact of generative AI on HR and the workplace: how to manage risk and take advantage of the benefits.
Agenda:
8:30 AM Welcome, Breakfast and Networking
8:25 AM Opening Remarks
8:30 AM Presentations | Q and A
10:30 AM Event Concludes
NEW! Chapter Connectors Program - To foster connection, support, and engagement within the HRPA community, we wish to pair in-person event attendees with experienced member "Connectors". <br> <br>
NEW! Ad-hoc Volunteer Opportunities - Interested in helping as a greeter, registration desk helper, speaker support and/or runner at an upcoming in-person Chapter event. <br> <br>
For both of the above opportunities, you should check of the box during registration but you will also need to login to Volunteer with HRPA and sign up there. Thank you for volunteering to help!
Registration Closes: March 18, 2026 at 8:00AM…or sooner if it sells out!
Registration Difficulties or Questions: Please reach out to Rebecca Lauzon our Specialist, Member Engagement at rlauzon@hrpa.ca