Avelar-Backed Bill to Provide Paid Leave for Workers Signed Into Law

ROMEOVILLE, Ill. —  Workers across Illinois are now entitled to a minimum of five days per year of paid leave for any purpose under legislation supported by state Rep. Dagmara “Dee” Avelar, D-Romeoville, and signed into law by Gov. J.B. Pritzker Monday.

“If these last few years have shown us anything, it’s that all workers, no matter their industry or paygrade, play a valuable role in Illinois’ economy and our daily lives. Sometimes life gets in the way of work, which is why workers deserve the freedom and flexibility to take paid time off if they need it,” Avelar said. “Paid leave for all workers is a lifeline to working families or anyone dealing with emergencies. This is a step in the right direction for workers across the state.”

The Paid Leave for All Workers Act provides employees in Illinois with a minimum of five days paid leave to be used for any purpose within a 12-month period. Employees will accrue one hour of paid leave for every 40 hours worked up to a minimum of 40 hours, and can start using the time once they have worked for 90 days. Employers can choose to “front load” leave by providing 40 hours of leave on an employee’s first day of employment. Employers can still require employees to provide notice before taking time off.

“For people living paycheck to paycheck, a day of unpaid leave could be devastating. Paid leave protects these workers from losing income due to unforeseen circumstances, like a sick family member or car troubles,” Avelar said. “This legislation will undoubtedly benefit employees throughout the state and reaffirms our commitment to uplifting Illinois’ working families.”

The law will take effect Jan. 1, 2024.