Summary - 2026 SHRM NYS Council Events

Navigating Challenging Reasonable Accommodation and

Disability Discrimination Concerns

With disability discrimination charges on the rise, employers are navigating an increasingly complex and high-risk compliance landscape. Through real-world case studies, this webinar will examine some of the most challenging issues employers face, including breakdowns in the medical documentation process, informal accommodations provided by supervisors, employee refusals of effective accommodations, reassignment obligations, requests to remove essential job functions, fitness-for-duty concerns, and performance or conduct issues that surface during leave. Attendees will leave with practical, legally informed strategies for managing these challenges thoughtfully, consistently, and in compliance with their obligations.

John M. Bagyi, Esq., SPHR, SHRM-SCP

Recognized as one of the 500 Leading U.S. Corporate Employment Lawyers by Lawdragon, John counsels and represents employers on labor and employment issues helping them achieve and maintain legal compliance, while improving employee engagement and workplace productivity. John has served as a guest lecturer at Albany Law School, RPI and the University at Albany, and is a frequent speaker at national, regional, and state conferences. He also serves as the General Counsel to the New York State Society of Human Resource Management.

John has been recognized by Human Resource Executive magazine as one of 200 of the Nation’s Most Powerful Employment Attorneys and is AV Preeminent Rated by Martindale-Hubbell. He is also listed in New York Super Lawyers and The Best Lawyers in America, which has recognized John as Albany Labor Law – Management "Lawyer of the Year”, Albany Litigation – Labor and Employment “Lawyer of the Year” and Albany Employment Law – Management “Lawyer of the Year”. In 2025, John was recognized as one of the Top 25 Super Lawyers in the Hudson Valley.

HR professionals from across New York State are invited to gather in Albany on Tuesday, February 24 for SHRM’s 2026 New York State Advocacy Day.

This impactful half-day program offers a unique opportunity to engage in meaningful advocacy and professional connection.

Take part in meetings with state legislators, including their senators and assembly members, to discuss critical workplace and workforce issues.
Gain firsthand insights from policymakers and subject matter experts on emerging legislative priorities and trends influencing New York workplaces.
Connect with HR leaders statewide, exchange perspectives, and strengthen professional networks.

Workplace Investigations That Work:

Strategies for Getting It Right

Workplace investigations into harassment, theft, and other forms of employee misconduct are becoming increasingly common. When conducted properly, these investigations can significantly reduce—or even eliminate—an employer’s legal exposure. Unfortunately, many investigations fall short and fail to achieve their intended purpose.

This presentation will equip you with the essential tools for conducting thorough and effective workplace investigations. It will cover how to plan an investigation, determine who to interview, manage challenging witnesses, understand employee rights during investigatory interviews, and navigate other complex issues that may arise.

SHRM NYS Webinar #2

SHRM NYS Council Meeting

Volunteer Leadership Conference

SHRM NYS Webinar #1

SHRM NYS Certification Preparation Program 2026