Continuing our series discussing the upcoming changes to Illinois employment laws going into effect in 2025 in Illinois, this episode touches on a new act and amendments that impact both employers and employees. Attorney Seth Matus joins Attorney Gwendolyn J. Sterk again to provide insights into these legislative updates.
Illinois Right to Privacy in the Workplace Act Amendments (ref: https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs3.asp?ActID=2398)
The amendments offer protections for employees when using the E-Verify system to verify work eligibility. Employees whose documentation returns a "no match" status are now protected against potential negative implications from such findings.
Illinois Whistleblower Act Amendments (ref: https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs3.asp?ActID=2495)
The Whistleblower Act now extends protections to disclosures made to superiors, alongside those made in good faith. The amendment prohibits employers from taking any "adverse action" against employees, broadening the previous restriction against potential retaliation. These changes reinforce the importance of transparency and accountability within organizations of all sizes.
Illinois Workplace Freedom of Speech Act (ref: https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs3.asp?ActID=4525&ChapterID=68&Print=True)
This newly introduced act provides offers protections for employees concerning employer communications, conversations, and/or meetings on religious and political matters, including union memberships. Employers cannot penalize employees for declining to attend or participate in meetings or communications about these subjects. The act also protects employees who report violations in good faith.
Listeners are encouraged to familiarize themselves with these amendments as they prepare for 2025. Employers should consider reviewing and updating their policies to ensure compliance and employees should take the opportunity to understand their rights under these new laws.
To connect with Attorney Seth Matus of Workplace Law Partners, visit: fishlawfirm.com/meet-our-team/seth-d-matus/
To connect with Sterk Family Law Group, P.C.: sterkfamilylaw.com or call 815-600-8950 to Empower Yourself With Options.
*********** Sterk Family Law provides a full range of family law and estate planning services in Orland Park for clients in Will, Cook, and DuPage counties. The Sterk Family Law Group team provides a holistic approach to the practice of law and strives to not only service a client’s legal needs, but also help manage a client’s emotional and overall well-being by establishing connections with a vast network of counselors, support groups, and various other non-traditional service providers within local communities by way of the unique Resource Center. The Resource Center provides Sterk Family Law clients with access to other professionals to help prepare for the next step in their lives. ***********
This is a legal advertisement from Sterk Family Law Group, P.C. It does not constitute legal or medical advice and should not be construed as such. This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only.
