New Workplace Laws to Take Effect in Illinois in 2020

 Posted on October 21,2019 in Employee Rights

Since the Industrial Revolution that took place between the late 18th century and the mid 19th century, the United States has seen an emphasis placed on improving the lives of workers. There are numerous state and federal laws that have been enacted to protect the rights of employees, including laws about worker safety, wage and work hour standards, discrimination policies, and other things that restrict what employers can and cannot do. Like any other laws, workplace laws are always evolving. A recent public act that was signed into law in Illinois will add new employment laws and amend some that already exist.

Workplace Transparency Act

The Workplace Transparency Act was signed into law by the governor this past August. The new law will apply to all contracts, waivers, agreements, or clauses entered into after January 1, 2020 concerning sexual harassment violations or any other Title VII or human rights violations. Employees will be prohibited from unilaterally requiring arbitration (a form of alternative dispute resolution) for claims that arise from violations of any law that is enforced by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or the Illinois Department of Human Rights.

Hotel and Casino Employee Safety Act

Beginning July 1, 2020, some hospitality and casino industry employers will face new laws concerning the safety of employees. Employees will now be required to be given a personal safety and notification device that they can use to summon for help. The sexual harassment and discrimination training will also be changed for employees in this industry. They will need to be expressly informed of their right to leave a work area if they perceive danger. Employers will also be required to take certain measures to protect their employees from guests who have engaged in sexual harassment and allow them time off if they wish to pursue legal action against such guests.

Amendments to the Illinois Human Rights Act

Also beginning January 1, employers will be required to comply with new rules in the Illinois Human Rights Act (IHRA). These include new rules about the IHRA and the prohibition of discrimination or harassment applying to other locations outside of the workplace, such as online. These include:

• Protecting against an individual’s “perceived” status
• Protecting non-employees from performing work for an employer
• Requiring all Illinois employers to establish and conduct a sexual harassment training program that complies with the state’s rules at least once per year

Get in Touch With a Schaumburg Employment Law Attorney to Ensure Compliance

Laws are constantly changing, and it can be difficult to keep up with all of the adjustments. At the Miller Law Firm, P.C., our attorneys are up-to-date on all employment laws, whether they are Illinois state laws or federal laws. If you are an employer, you cannot afford to violate any employment laws. Our skilled Illinois employment law attorneys can help you make sure you are complying with all of the latest laws and regulations. Call our office today at 847-995-1205 to schedule a free consultation.

Sources:

https://www.natlawreview.com/article/substantial-changes-ahead-illinois-employers-2020-relating-to-sexual-harassment

http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/publicacts/101/101-0221.htm