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Paid Leave Oregon Three Years Later: What Employers Need to Know

Workplace Legal Update: HR Specialty Session

Clear guidance on what’s changing—and how HR should respond.

Workplace Legal Updates is an HR Specialty Session focused on helping HR professionals stay ahead of evolving employment laws and regulations. This session breaks down recent and upcoming legal changes, what they mean in practice, and how to apply them within your organization. Led by trusted legal and HR experts, discussions center on real-world implications, risk awareness, and practical steps that support compliance and confident decision-making in today’s workplace.

Session Overview:

After three years of Paid Leave Oregon (PLO), employers continue to navigate evolving requirements, countless legislative changes, and new compliance obligations. Staying current is critical to managing leave requests effectively and minimizing legal risk. In this webinar, Barran Liebman Partner Nicole Elgin will provide practical guidance and compliance strategies to help employers confidently address the current PLO landscape.

Learning Objectives: 

• PLO 2026 minimum and maximum weekly benefit updates
• The interaction between PLO, the Oregon Family Leave Act (OFLA), and the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
• Recent disability-related benefit changes under PLO
• Common compliance pitfalls and issues for Oregon employers

About the Speaker: 

Nicole Elgin Partner Barran Liebman LLC Nicole Elgin is a partner at Barran Liebman LLP, where she represents employers in labor and employment law matters, from proactive advice and training to strategic litigation. Her employment law practice involves helping employers adapt their policies to legislative and regulatory changes at the local, state, and national levels. She defends employers investigated by administrative agencies, including Oregon’s Bureau of Labor and Industries (BOLI), Washington’s Labor & Industries (L&I), and the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), to name a few. She was also a member of the Rulemaking Advisory Committee for Oregon’s Equal Pay Act and has helped numerous employers perform equal pay analyses.

About HR Specialty Sessions

HR Specialty Sessions are designed for HR professionals who want to go deeper. These focused programs explore specific HR disciplines—such as DEI, Talent Acquisition, Total Rewards, and more—through practical, experience-based learning. Led by local experts and practitioners, each session emphasizes real-world strategies, tools, and takeaways you can apply directly to your work.

HR Specialty Sessions are ideal for you if you:

• Want a deeper dive into a specific HR topic or function
• Are responsible for strategy, implementation, or decision-making in a specialty area
• Prefer focused learning over broad overviews
• Value learning from local experts who understand the realities of our region and workplaces

These sessions are valuable for mid-level through senior HR professionals, while remaining accessible to anyone ready to deepen their expertise.

 Event Details

• Date: July 22nd, 2026
• Time:12:00pm - 1:00pm
• Location: Zoom
  
• Cost:
  • PHRMA Members: Complimentary!
  • Non-Members: $50
• Refunds: We understand schedules change, but we do ask that you give us 48-hours notice.

Build Your Own AI Total Rewards Coach

Total Rewards: Building Value for Your Workforce

Compensation, benefits, and culture—designed to attract, retain, and motivate.

Total Rewards: Building Value for Your Workforce is an HR Specialty Session focused on how organizations design and deliver compensation, benefits, and rewards that truly resonate with employees. This session examines the full total rewards ecosystem—from pay structures and benefits to recognition, wellbeing, and employee experience—and how these elements work together to support recruitment, retention, and engagement. Led by local HR practitioners, discussions center on practical approaches, evolving workforce expectations, and strategies for aligning total rewards with organizational values and culture.

Session Overview: 

In this hands-on session, attendees will learn how to build a personalized AI assistant (“coach”) that supports common Total Rewards and HR workflows, from employee communications and manager FAQs to job architecture drafts and comp philosophy narratives. Participants will learn practical, transferable frameworks for using AI tools safely and effectively, and will leave with something they’ve built that's immediately valuable in their day-to-day work.

Learning Objectives: 

• Learn practical frameworks for using generative AI responsibly in HR and Total Rewards contexts
• Identify high-impact use cases where AI can improve efficiency and quality of work
• Build and customize an AI assistant that supports real-world Total Rewards workflows

About the Speaker: 

Julie Scotland Co-Founder & AI Enablement Advisor Gravi AI Julie Scotland is co-founder of Gravi AI, prev. co-founder of Pasito, an AI benefits platform, and an AI enablement strategist helping organizations operationalize AI across teams and leadership structures. Through Gravi AI, she designs enterprise AI adoption programs focused on practical implementation, governance, workforce readiness, and responsible AI use. Julie has trained thousands of professionals and helped organizations move from experimentation to scalable AI capability. With experience building and scaling organizations, she brings both strategic and execution-level expertise to AI transformation.

About HR Specialty Sessions

HR Specialty Sessions are designed for HR professionals who want to go deeper. These focused programs explore specific HR disciplines—such as DEI, Talent Acquisition, Total Rewards, and more—through practical, experience-based learning. Led by local experts and practitioners, each session emphasizes real-world strategies, tools, and takeaways you can apply directly to your work.

HR Specialty Sessions are ideal for you if you:

• Want a deeper dive into a specific HR topic or function
• Are responsible for strategy, implementation, or decision-making in a specialty area
• Prefer focused learning over broad overviews
• Value learning from local experts who understand the realities of our region and workplaces

These sessions are valuable for mid-level through senior HR professionals, while remaining accessible to anyone ready to deepen their expertise.

Event Details:

• Date: August 26th, 2026
• Time: 12:00 pm - 1:00pm
• Location: Zoom
• Cost:
  • PHRMA Members: Complimentary!
  • Non-Members: $50
• Recertification Credits:
  • SHRM PDCs: 1
  • HRCI Credits: 1 (pending until approved)

Thank You to Our Total Rewards & Programs Volunteers! 

Jeff Lucas, SHRM-SCP Employee Benefits Advisor Lucas Benefits Group PHRMA Volunteer	Tim DeWolf Employee Benefits Consultant Brown & Brown PHRMA Volunteer	Natalie Grebe HR Manager Elephants Delicatessen PHRMA Board Member	Nicole Feightner, SHRM-SCP, PHR HR Business Partner PacifiCorp PHRMA Board Member

SHRM Certification Study Group

Prepare for the HR challenges of tomorrow with a course designed to set you up for success today. If you’re ready to move your career forward, we’re here to help. Earning your SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP credential can help you enhance your HR expertise, empower positive change in your workplace, and increase your earning potential. Our SHRM Certification Prep+ course combines combines the renowned SHRM Certification Prep System with the personalized support of our SHRM-certified HR professionals to offer you a flexible, effective way to prepare. So what are you waiting for?

Prepare for Success with PHRMA’s Certification Study Group

We combine the renowned SHRM Certification Prep System with the personalized support of our SHRM-certified HR professionals to offer you a flexible, effective way to prepare. The SHRM Certification Prep System tailors your study plan to your unique experience, knowledge, and career goals, helping you master the SHRM Body of Applied Skills and Knowledge® (SHRM BASK®) and build the confidence to pass your certification exam.

PHRMA’s comprehensive 13-week SHRM Certification Study Group will provide you with access to weekly, HR certified, local practitioners to guide you through interactive discussions, review sample test questions and test-taking tips (approximately 39 hours of remote instruction)! This study group, combined with your own individual study, will help prepare you to pass this exam and earn your credential!

• Guided Instruction from Local, Certified Experts – Learn from experienced, HR-certified professionals who provide weekly guidance through interactive discussions, sample test questions, and proven test-taking strategies.
• Interactive & Engaging Format – This immersive program combines live instruction (approximately 39 hours) with online modules, ensuring you stay engaged and on track. And a networking opportunity to meet your fellow test takers!
• *Proven Results – Over 95% of PHRMA’s SHRM Study Group participants pass their exam, making this one of the most successful preparation courses in the region.

*Pass rate is based on those who completed the group and sate for the exam: results vary based up on attendance and individual practice and preparation.

	Flexibility for Your Busy Life Live Sessions and Flexibility to Learn at Your Own Pace Whether balancing work, family, or other commitments, our study group is designed for your schedule. Participate in live sessions for real-time interaction and support, and access recorded materials and online modules to learn at your own pace.
	Affordable & Accessible More Value, Less Cost Unlike other study groups that charge extra for materials or exam fees, we include everything you need in one simple price. Our comprehensive package ensures you won’t face any surprise costs, and we offer competitive pricing for members. We also provide scholarships to assist when your employer cannot cover the cost, making our program more accessible for those facing financial barriers.
	Comprehensive Study Materials All-Inclusive Package Unlike other programs, our study group offers everything you need for success, all included in one price. Registration includes both online and print versions of the SHRM Certification Prep System, the official certification prep tool, now updated with questions from actual SHRM Certification exams. This interactive learning tool is specifically designed for adult learners and creates a personalized study path based on your knowledge, experience, and goals, helping you optimize your study time. With 39 hours of content delivered through live sessions, recorded materials and the SHRM Certification Prep System, you’ll master the SHRM Body of Applied Skills and Knowledge® (SHRM BASK®), equipping you with the competencies and strategies necessary for effective HR practice. With PHRMA's *95% pass rate, included exam, and opportunities to build meaningful relationships with local HR professionals, we ensure you approach the SHRM Certification exams with confidence and set you up for long-term career success.
	1-on-1 Support Guidance to Help You Succeed Gain guidance from SHRM-certified instructors and connect with your peers to apply real-world HR knowledge and skills. This one-on-one support ensures you feel prepared and confident as you approach the exam.

Fall Course Dates

September 15th - December 8th

Tuesdays, 5:30pm - 8:30pm

Zoom

Why Certification Matters for Your Career

Did you know 92% of HR executives agree that it's important for HR professionals to be SHRM-certified in the future?*

Here's why earning your SHRM certification in 2026 is a career-defining move:

• Boost Your HR Expertise
  SHRM-certified HR professionals report stronger credibility among peers and senior leadership, enhancing their influence within the organization.
• Increase Your Earning Power
  Passing the SHRM certification exam can lead to earnings that are 14%-15% higher than those of non-certified HR peers.*
• Advance Your Career Opportunities
  71% of HR executives agree that SHRM certification increases the likelihood of obtaining a promotion in HR and list it as a preferred qualification.*

*Source: 2020-2021 Certification & Certification Preparation Resource Guide, SHRM

Study Group Preparation Tools Designed for Success

Registration also includes the online and print versions of the SHRM Certification Prep System—the official cert prep tool complete with 2,700+ practice questions, including questions previously used on actual SHRM Certification exams. Designed specifically for adult learners, this interactive online learning tool creates a personalized study path, based on your knowledge, experience and goals, to help you optimize your study time, learn the SHRM Body of Applied Skills and Knowledge® (SHRM BASK®) and approach the SHRM Certification exams with confidence.

Steps to Become SHRM Certified

• Determine your eligibility
  Your know your background best, so it will be up to you to ensure you qualify for the exam you sign up to take.

• Prepare for the Certification Exam with guidance from PHRMA including HR practitioner content review one-on-one support and 39 hours of remote instruction. Choose the best option for you: 

• Option 1: PHRMA Study Group + SHRM Certification Prep System + SHRM Exam Voucher
  • PHRMA Members: $1,699
  • Non-PHRMA Members: $2,099 (Save $400 and join PHRMA today!) 
    ($2,620 value)! 
    

• Option 2: PHRMA Study Group + SHRM Certification Prep System
  • PHRMA Members: $1,299
  • Non-PHRMA Members: $1,899 (Save $400 and join PHRMA today!) 
  • If you choose option two, you will need to complete an extra step:
    • Apply for the SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP exam
    ($2,100 value)! 

• NOTE: Regular registration closes February 6, 2026 for the Spring group and September 4, 2026 for the Fall group. A rush fee of $100 will be added to registrations coming in after those dates for 2-day shipping of your SHRM Learning System. 

• For complete certification details, visit shrmcertification.org

Why Join PHRMA's SHRM Certification Study Group?

• PHRMA Study Group Participants Have a *95% SHRM Exam Pass Rate - Our proven track record sets you up for success.
• Other Study Groups in Our Area Don’t Include a Discounted Exam Voucher - Get more value with our all-inclusive pricing.
• Includes Your Own SHRM Certification Prep System (Books, Modules, Practice Exams, and Practice Questions - $1,600 Value) Everything you need to prepare, all in one package. SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP Certifications Are Built Upon the SHRM BASK® - The SHRM BASK® defines the standards for HR professionals worldwide, ensuring that your certification is relevant, rigorous, and globally recognized. SHRM brought together the best minds in HR to define 9 behavioral competencies and 14 functional areas every HR professional should know.
• Learn from the Experience of Current HR Practitioners - The SHRM exam is based on competencies across HR areas, and learning from seasoned professionals ensures you’re prepared for real-world scenarios.
• Network and Build Relationships with Fellow HR Professionals - Connect with peers and form small study groups to enhance your learning experience.
• Gain Valuable Test Tips from Those Who Have Recently Taken the SHRM Exams - Learn strategies and insights directly from recent exam takers to maximize your exam readiness.

Need Funding or Approval?

Pursuing your career goals can be particularly challenging right now. To help support you, here are a few ideas for funding your certification journey.

• Check with your employer to see if funding options, such as tuition reimbursement, are available.

• Approach Your Boss: Email template

• Approach your boss: Flyer 

• 5 Ways Your Organization Will Benefit from Your SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP Certification: Flyer

Your journey toward SHRM certification can now be done 100% online.

Like many HR professionals worldwide, you’re likely adjusting to new routines, schedules and working situations to accommodate global health concerns. We understand how challenging that can be navigate and want to let you know we’re here to help. 

It’s more important than ever to take a step back and refocus on your personal well-being and goals. And if one of your goals includes continued HR advancement, our fully online courses can help you get there. You’ll get all the benefits of an in-person classroom experience with live instruction from a certified instructor, as well as interaction and discussions with fellow HR professionals, but in the comfort of your own home.

And once you’ve completed our course, you can continue your journey to SHRM certification by taking the SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP exam at home, with SHRM’s live remote proctoring exam option.

Details

To join PHRMA and SHRM for the deepest discount, please do so here. Participants must also meet current exam eligibility requirements. Determination of exam eligibility is the responsibility of the participant. To ensure timely delivery of your SHRM Learning System before the first class, the deadline to register for the 2026 Spring Study Group is February 6th and September 4 for the 2026 Fall Study Group Participants who join after these dates for Group will be charged an additional $100 rush fee for 2-day shipping of your Learning System. PHRMA reserves the right to cancel the study group at any time if a minimum enrollment of 25 participants is not reached. A full refund will be issued to participants in the event of class cancellation. No refunds or postponements will be granted for the study group after February 6th for the Spring group or September 4th for the Fall group. To ensure the timely receipt of student materials early registration is recommended. PHRMA members are eligible for scholarships. More information is available here. 

Workplace Legal Update

Clear guidance on what’s changing—and how HR should respond.

HR Specialty Session

Workplace Legal Updates is an HR Specialty Session focused on helping HR professionals stay ahead of evolving employment laws and regulations. This session breaks down recent and upcoming legal changes, what they mean in practice, and how to apply them within your organization. Led by trusted legal and HR experts, discussions center on real-world implications, risk awareness, and practical steps that support compliance and confident decision-making in today’s workplace.

Session Overview: TBA

Learning Objectives: TBA 

About the Speaker: TBA

About HR Specialty Sessions

HR Specialty Sessions are designed for HR professionals who want to go deeper. These focused programs explore specific HR disciplines—such as DEI, Talent Acquisition, Total Rewards, and more—through practical, experience-based learning. Led by local experts and practitioners, each session emphasizes real-world strategies, tools, and takeaways you can apply directly to your work.

HR Specialty Sessions are ideal for you if you:

• Want a deeper dive into a specific HR topic or function
• Are responsible for strategy, implementation, or decision-making in a specialty area
• Prefer focused learning over broad overviews
• Value learning from local experts who understand the realities of our region and workplaces

These sessions are valuable for mid-level through senior HR professionals, while remaining accessible to anyone ready to deepen their expertise.

 Event Details

• Date: September 30th, 2026
• Time:12:00pm - 1:00pm
• Location: Zoom
  
• Cost:
  • PHRMA Members: Complimentary!
  • Non-Members: $50
• Refunds: We understand schedules change, but we do ask that you give us 48-hours notice.

Employee Relations: Balancing People and Policy 

Navigate workplace challenges with confidence, consistency, and care.

Employee Relations: Balancing People and Policy is an HR Specialty Session focused on navigating complex workplace issues with clarity, consistency, and care. This session explores how HR professionals can address employee concerns, manage conflict, and uphold policies while maintaining trust, fairness, and strong working relationships.

Led by experienced HR practitioners, discussions center on real-world scenarios—performance concerns, investigations, discipline, accommodations, and difficult conversations—along with practical approaches that support both compliance and culture. Participants will share challenges, explore best practices, and strengthen their confidence in handling employee relations matters thoughtfully and effectively.

Session Title: TBA

Learning Objectives: TBA

About the Speaker: TBA

About HR Specialty Sessions

HR Specialty Sessions are designed for HR professionals who want to go deeper. These focused programs explore specific HR disciplines—such as DEI, Talent Acquisition, Total Rewards, and more—through practical, experience-based learning. Led by local experts and practitioners, each session emphasizes real-world strategies, tools, and takeaways you can apply directly to your work.

HR Specialty Sessions are ideal for you if you:

• Want a deeper dive into a specific HR topic or function
• Are responsible for strategy, implementation, or decision-making in a specialty area
• Prefer focused learning over broad overviews
• Value learning from local experts who understand the realities of our region and workplaces

These sessions are valuable for mid-level through senior HR professionals, while remaining accessible to anyone ready to deepen their expertise.

Event Details

• Date: October 28th, 2026
• Time: 12:00pm - 1:00pm
• Location: Zoom
  
• Cost:
  • PHRMA Members: Complimentary!
  • Non-Members: $50
• Recertification Credit: 1 SHRM PDC & 1 HRCI Credit: Approved
• Refunds: We understand schedules change, but we do ask that you give us 48-hours notice.

Thank you to our Employee Relations Volunteer & Programs Board Members! 

Bruce Garrett Attorney Dunn Carney LLP PHRMA Volunteer	Natalie Grebe HR Manager Elephants Delicatessen PHRMA Board Member	Nicole Feightner, SHRM-SCP, PHR HR Business Partner PacifiCorp PHRMA Board Member

Leadership Development: Cultivating Growth & Leadership 

Support leaders at every stage—and help them grow with intention.

Leadership Development: Cultivating Growth & Leadership is an HR Specialty Session focused on strengthening leadership capability across the organization. This session explores how HR can support leaders at all levels—from emerging managers to experienced leaders—by developing skills that drive trust, accountability, communication, and growth. Led by local HR practitioners and leadership experts, discussions focus on real challenges, practical approaches, and sustainable strategies that help leaders grow alongside their teams and organizations.

Session Overview: TBA
Learning Objectives: TBA
About the Speaker: TBA

Event Details

• Date: December 9th, 2026
• Time:12pm - 1pm
• Location: Zoom
  
• Cost:
  • PHRMA Members: Complimentary!
  • Non-Members: $50
• Recertification Credits:1 SHRM PDC & 1 HRCI Credit: Approved

Thank You to Our Leadership Development Volunteers and Our Program Board Members! 

Linda Addy Training + Development Consultant HR Annie Consulting, Inc PHRMA Volunteer	Natalie Grebe HR Manager Elephants Delicatessen PHRMA Board Member	Nicole Feightner, SHRM-SCP, PHR HR Business Partner PacifiCorp PHRMA Board Member