Illinois has enacted legislation (House Bill 252) that will amend the Illinois Human Rights Act to cover all employers. House Bill 252 takes effect July 1, 2020.
Background:
Currently, the Illinois Human Rights Act prohibits employers with 15 or more employees from discriminating against applicants and employees because of their race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, age, sex, pregnancy, disability, marital status, order of protection status, military status, sexual orientation, or unfavorable discharge from military service.
Note: The law applies to all employers when a complainant alleges a civil rights violation due to unlawful discrimination based upon their disability, pregnancy, or sexual harassment.
House Bill 252:
Effective July 1, 2020, the Illinois Human Rights Act's prohibitions on employment discrimination will apply to all employers with one or more employees in the state.
House Bill 252 also makes clear that the definition of employer does not cover, among other exceptions already in the law, places of worship with respect to employees whose work is connected with the place of worship.
Compliance Recommendations:
Illinois employers should review their policies and training to ensure compliance with House Bill 252. Please contact your dedicated service professional with any questions.