THURSDAY, AUGUST 14, 2026

Senate Passes Continuing Resolution Delaying Hemp Restrictions

Last week, the Senate passed a Continuing Resolution that temporarily delays the federal ban on THC and hemp products until December 11, 2026. This delay gives Congress additional time to look for a longer-term solution to the issue of hemp products. Currently, products with more than 0.4mg of total THC per container would have been banned at the federal level starting on November 12, 2026.

Right now, this legislation awaits passage by the House of Representatives and the president’s signature. We will continue to share updates when we have them.

Updated TPS Extensions

USCIS has once again updated Temporary Protected Status (TPS) related work authorization guidance. The new deadline is August 19 for nationals of Ethiopia.

As things remain fluid, we recommend checking USCIS for the most up-to-date expiration and re-verification information.

We also recommend viewing the National Restaurant Association's webinar on the latest TPS changes and what employers need to know.

Employment Law Roundtable for Small Businesses

Join the Illinois Restaurant Association, Laner Muchin Law, and the Cook County Small Business Source for an informative Employment Law Roundtable designed for small business owners.

Bring your employment law questions, hear from legal experts, and connect with fellow small business owners. Complementary breakfast will be served.

Date: Wednesday, August 26

Time: 10:00am

Location: El Cid (2645 N Kedzie, Chicago IL 60647)

Click here to register for the Employment Law Roundtable.

Rethinking Food Packaging: A Guide to PFAS-Free Alternatives

Join the Illinois Restaurant Association, Illinois Green Business Program, and the Cook County Small Business Source for a virtual session on food packaging and PFAS-free foodware options. Learn why PFAS in food packaging matters, how to identify safer alternatives, and practical steps to make the switch.

You’ll also get helpful resources to guide purchasing decisions and hear firsthand from Soul Ramen about their experience transitioning to PFAS-free foodware. Register today and get the tools to make the switch with confidence.

Date: Thursday, August 27

Time: 10:00am

Click here to register for the Rethinking Food Packaging virtual business advising session.

CDPH Job Opportunity: Sanitarian II

The Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) is hiring four Sanitarian II positions at $75,336 per year. These field-based roles help protect public health by inspecting food establishments, enforcing food safety and sanitation requirements, and maintaining inspection records.

Click here for more information on the Sanitarian II job posting. Applications are due by 11:59pm CDT on September 4, 2026.

Affordable Housing Opportunity for Chicago Chefs

Applications are now open for affordable housing at Related Midwest’s 400 Lake Shore Drive development. The project offers a preference for members of Chicago’s creative community, including culinary professionals.

Click here to learn more about the affordable housing opportunity and to apply. Applications will be accepted through September 28, 2026.

Take the CHEx Institute Survey

Chicago's restaurant scene is world-class. But the guest experience doesn't always match the food. The CHEx Institute is building a first-of-its-kind hospitality soft skills certification program right here in Chicago and we want to hear from you. If you own or operate a restaurant, bar, café, or carry-out, take 5 minutes to share your insights and you could win a $50 Visa gift card. One winner drawn from all completed surveys.

Click here to take the CHEx Institute survey.

IRA New Member Spotlight

The IRA would like to thank all existing members and welcome the following new member:

• Pilot Project Brewing



For more information about the benefits of becoming an IRA member, contact Lisa Gilbert.

THANK YOU TO OUR CORPORATE SPONSORS