Nationwide, the average cost to defend a suit, whether the allegations are proven or not, is more than $250,000 - not including any settlement expenses.  AH&LA�s program provides the broadest employment practices liability policy coverage available to the industry.  It automatically provides coverage for claims from third parties (e.g., customers, vendors) and punitive damages (where insurable by law) and members can utilize their existing agents.

�Few hoteliers are protected against this type of liability,� said AH&LA Chairman John Russell.  �The program is the brainchild of the International Society of Hospitality Association Executives� new Affinity Program Committee, in which programs are developed for member property needs.� 

Participating members, with premiums in excess of $5,000 annually, receive an Internet-based program to help customers comply with current federal and state regulations as well as a self-audit tool to make sure they understand what they is necessary to be in compliance.   A training module is included to help reduce the likelihood of a claim as well as a sample handbook that can be customized.  The program also offers a hotline staffed by specialists to help answer any legal questions hoteliers may have.  In addition, a confidential third party reporting line summarizes and forwards complaints received by employees within 24 hours to an employer, so they can take immediate action to prevent the complaint from turning into a claim.

Under the AH&LA-sponsored plan, member state associations may endorse and offer it to their property members.  For more information on how to better protect your property, contact Robb Imbus and Linda Dowling with Palmer and Cay at (800) 476-2256.

AH&LA, founded in 1910, is a federation of state lodging associations throughout the United States, with some 11,000 property members worldwide, representing more than 1.4 million rooms.  AH&LA provides operations, technical, educational, marketing, and communications services plus governmental affairs representation to the lodging industry.