Laws & Regulations Episodes

Imagine this: You're out to dinner with your staff. One of them has celiac disease. The server doesn’t know what gluten is. The kitchen isn’t sure either. That moment? It sparked real change in Illinois. In this episode of Eating at a Meeting, Tracy talks with State Senator Sally Turner, the powerhouse behind Illinois Senate Bill 1288—a bill that will make Illinois one of the safest places to dine out if you live with celiac disease. It’s a big deal. This new law, signed by Illinois Governor JB Pritzker on August 1, 2024, requires ALL food service safety managers in the state to be trained on celiac disease, gluten-free protocols, and preventing cross-contact. Senator Turner shares how a personal connection turned into statewide action—and why this matters not just for restaurants, but for anyone planning events, catering menus, or feeding guests. Because safety shouldn't depend on luck. It should be built into the system.

Join me for an eye-opening conversation with attorney Laurel Francoeur, a fierce advocate for food allergy and disability rights, as we dive into the real-world challenges of creating safe, inclusive environments for those with dietary needs. 💼✨...

Can your kitchen really say it’s covered when someone reports a food allergy—or have you left a legal gap just waiting to land you in court? Hospitality attorney Ryan Gembala joins Tracy for a reality check on the legal liabilities of allergen mishandling, revealing why training every staff member and documenting those efforts could mean the difference between a defensible incident and a catastrophic lawsuit. Through cautionary tales drawn from real lawsuits, you’ll see what happens when policies go ignored, why “the general manager knows” is never enough, and how event planners, hoteliers, and restaurateurs must communicate and document at every stage—from written contracts to the final buffet label. Walk away with specific action steps and a lawyer’s perspective on best practices that don’t just check the box but genuinely reduce your legal exposure. If you’re responsible for food service, whether in meetings, restaurants, or hotels, this practical guide will help you build susta…

Join me for a special episode of the #EatingAtAMeeting podcast! 🎙️ On the 33rd anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), I am thrilled to have Attorney Laurel Francoeur as my guest. 🎉 She will highlight a crucial topic...