Impact Survey, Mask FAQs

Complete our COVID-19 Impact Survey

The IRA is partnering with the National Restaurant Association to gather critical data that will be very valuable to our ongoing advocacy efforts in support of RRF replenishment funding. 

Click here to complete the new COVID-19 restaurant impact survey. We appreciate you taking a few minutes to complete it.

State of Illinois Issues Mask Requirement FAQs

The state of Illinois recently issued new FAQs related to face covering requirements in all indoor public places.

From the FAQ:

Do I have to wear a face covering indoors if I’m able to maintain six feet of physical distancing some or most of the time?

• Yes. Individuals in indoor public places must wear a face covering at all times, unless they can consistently maintain six feet of distance (such as when working in an office or cubicle).

• All employees in indoor workplaces must wear a face covering.

Are tents considered public indoor places?

• Tents, including those used for weddings, must have at least 50% of the sides open in order to be considered an outdoor area. Tents that do not have at least 50% of the sides open are considered public indoor places and occupants must wear face coverings, regardless of vaccination status or physical distancing.

Who is responsible for enforcing the Executive Order?

• All Illinoisans should follow the Order so that they can protect themselves, their families, and their communities from COVID-19. Local police and local health departments may utilize their traditional police powers and public health authority to address matters of noncompliance

Click here to review the FAQs. Click here to review the Executive Order.

Review face covering and signage requirements in the city of Chicago and Cook County.

Chicago Sun-Times on Labor Shortages, Attracting Employees

The Chicago Sun-Times recently covered the labor-friendly conditions in various industries in Chicago, and how employers are working to attract employees.

IRA Chairman Sam Sanchez, owner of Old Crow Smokehouse, talked about the unlimited opportunity in the industry. “You can come in as a dishwasher and end up owning the restaurant," said Sanchez.

The Sun-Times also noted how the IRA has asked Congress to create a class of immigrant worker visas to help restaurants with the labor shortage.

Click here to read more.

Expanded Federal Unemployment Benefits End

The Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) is reminding claimants that federal unemployment programs have come to an end, effective September 4, 2021. The expiration of these programs has no impact on the state’s regular unemployment program.

Click here to review the announcement. Click here for more information from IDES.

Sam Toia Discusses Restaurant Closures, RRF, and Staffing Challenges with WLS Radio

IRA President & CEO Sam Toia recently spoke with WLS Radio about the state of the industry, how many restaurants have closed, the need to replenish the Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RRF), and more.

Click here to listen to the segment.