New Laws Impacting Employers and Employees in Illinois
April 25, 2024
As Illinois employment laws undergo regular updates, it's imperative for employers and employees to remain informed about the latest legal changes impacting the workplace. With legislation passed by the General Assembly and signed into law by Governor JB Pritzker, there are several key updates that affect employment rights and regulations across the state.
One of the most impactful changes is the increase in the minimum wage. This change, which was initiated by Governor Pritzker in 2019 and is set to continue until 2025, will see the minimum wage rise by $1 each year. This year, the minimum wage will reach $13 per hour, with tipped workers earning $7.80 per hour. This increase is significant for employees, as it directly affects their income and financial stability. It's worth noting that workers in areas like Chicago and Cook County may see higher minimum wages due to local ordinances, which adds another layer of complexity for both employers and employees to navigate.
Expanding employee rights, the Family Bereavement Leave Act (FBLA) has been amended to provide broader job-protected leave. Initially known as the Child Bereavement Leave Act (CBLA), the FBLA now encompasses pregnancy loss, failed adoptions, unsuccessful reproductive procedures, and other related events impacting pregnancy or fertility. Additionally, the amendment requires employers to grant leave time following the loss of family members such as parents or siblings. Employees are entitled to take up to two weeks, or (10) ten working days, of unpaid leave for events covered by the FBLA.
Another significant change comes with the amendment to the One Day Rest in Seven Act (ODRISA), which ensures workers' right to a day of rest every workweek and breaks for meals or rest during daily work shifts. Employers subject to ODRISA must prominently display a notice in the workplace detailing workers' rights under the Act, which can be found on the Illinois Department of Labor (IDOL) website.
Additionally, the amendment to the Employee Sick Leave Act imposes new obligations on employers regarding sick leave benefits. Employers providing sick leave benefits must now allow employees to take leave for a family member's illness under the same conditions as they would for their illness. This change aims to provide greater flexibility and support for employees managing family health issues while maintaining job security.
These legislative updates underscore the dynamic nature of employment law in Illinois and highlight the importance of staying informed about changes that affect both employers and employees. For employers seeking guidance on compliance with these new laws or employees needing assistance in understanding their rights, consulting with an experienced Illinois employment law attorney can provide valuable insight and ensure adherence to legal requirements.
Contact Our Illinois Employment Law Attorney For
If you believe that you've been a victim of employment discrimination or workplace harassment in Chicago, it's very important to act quickly to protect your legal rights. At the Law Office of Michael Smith, we have years of employment law experience and we are dedicated to helping you with your employment-related legal matters in Chicago. Contact our Illinois employment law attorney at the Law Office of Michael Smith by calling 847-466-1099 for a 15-minute consultation.