The Bay Area's downtowns are at a crossroads. According to the Bay Area Council Economic Institute, Downtown San Francisco's sales tax receipts remain 11 percent below their pre-pandemic amounts, one of the only major downtowns in the region to continue facing a tax shortfall versus 2019 amounts.

Join the Bay Area Council on Thursday, September 19., 2024 from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM for a robust conversation on how to solve the problem of what to do about Downtowns in the Bay Area with the first in a series of conversations on the topic.

Navigating the ever-evolving labor union landscape, from the rise of gig economy workers to the impact of technological advancements on traditional labor practices, is a complex challenge. This interactive session will discuss legal framework trends in governing collective bargaining and labor relations, including joint employer issues, DEI and changing NLRB rules.

Sandra Rappaport: Evolving Labor Union Trends and Effective Bargaining Strategies

“Forever chemicals,” often referred to as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and ethylene oxide, present complex legal and regulatory challenges for both manufacturers and communities. This session will discuss the evolving landscape of these chemicals and explore effective strategies for response and mitigation. This interactive discussion will touch on approaches to addressing contamination as well as ethical considerations and corporate social responsibility.

Merton Howard: Risk Management, Compliance and Response to “Forever Chemical” Claims

In today’s digital landscape, businesses face a myriad of cyber risks, including data breaches, ransomware attacks, and regularory penalties for non-compliance with privacy and data security laws. This interactive session will review the latest developments and provide best practice suggestions for protecting assets, maintaining sutomer trust, and mitigating the financial and reputational consequences of cyber incidents.

Batya Forsyth: Guarding the Digital Realm: Trends in Data Privacy and Security Law

Join us as we dive into the delicate dance of protecting your organization’s interests while fostering a positive and productive relationship with executive talent. We will discuss how to navigate the common pitfalls and challenges associated with enforcing restrictive covenants, such as employee mobility, changing business landscapes, and jurisdictional differences. We encourage all to share best practices as we explore emerging legal trends and developments impacting the enforceability of restrictive covenants and non-compete agreements.

Ethical rules dictate that water agency general counsel report to agency Boards of Directors, and serve agencies as their client. This dynamic sets up a number of ethical issues. Panelists will present and consider hypotheticals in a lively discussion.

Claire Collins: General Counsel Roles and Responsibilities Part 2 – Who is the Client?

Come ready to connect with other influential founders and partake in a discussion on how to exit with confidence. Learn essential strategies for optimizing QSBS through estate and income tax planning, and gain insights from founders who have successfully navigated their exits using QSBS. Our expert panel will discuss best practices, pitfalls to avoid, and practical advice for leveraging QSBS to maximize your after-tax proceeds. Enjoy great drinks, food and even better company!

Christopher Karachale: "How to Maximize the Benefits of Qualified Small Business Stock"

A strong ESG commitment has become an integral part of running a successful law firm; but, given the myriad of shifting challenges that firm leaders face, revisiting and refining firm ESG policies may not be a critical priority. Shifting to more sustainable operations may reap a bounty of rewards such as increased reputation, client favorability, and decreased long-term costs. At this point, clients expect firms to have a strong ESG practice in place; so much so, that many clients may neglect to take a closer look and verify ESG standards.

Join California’s critical infrastructure and essential materials producers for the 2024 Education Conference in Napa, California. Come for the robust educational sessions and stay for the networking and fun. The conference will also include an exhibit hall, committee meetings, awards and more. This annual conference welcomes anyone doing business or interested in construction materials, essential minerals, asphalt or concrete.

Alene Taber: 12 Steps to Surviving an Air Quality Inspection (Mining Breakout Session)