Durbin Discusses Impact Of Coronavirus With Darden Restaurants

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) today discussed the impact of the coronavirus pandemic with CEO and President of Darden Restaurants, Gene Lee. On a call with Lee, Durbin asked how the pandemic will impact the restaurant industry and how the company is planning to support restaurant employees as normal operations come to a halt.

“The coronavirus pandemic will undoubtedly have a serious impact on the restaurant industry as the country changes our social norms and daily lives to fight this virus. Congress must provide employees relief, including increased paid sick leave, in order to support workers and families during this coronavirus crisis,” Durbin said.

Darden Restaurants owns and operates about 1,800 restaurants, including chains such as Olive Garden, LongHorn Steakhouse, and The Capital Grille. The restaurant group employs roughly 190,000 people and serves nearly 400 million guests annually. Darden has 57 restaurants and about 6,000 employees in Illinois.

More like this:

Heaterz Hot Chicken Expands to Alton Riverfront, Owner Shares Vision for Family-Friendly Destination

6 days ago

Employee Who Embezzled $1 Million from St. Louis County Restaurant Sentenced to 21 Months in Prison

Jul 21, 2026

Illinois Makes Cocktails To Go Permanent Under New Law

Jun 30, 2026

Godfrey Business Spotlight: Delmar Public House Blends Pub Favorites, Local Ingredients and Bluff Views

Sep 17, 2026

Local Tourism Economic Impact Climbs to Nearly $1.5 Billion in Southwest Illinois

Sep 16, 2026