SPRINGFIELD – To ensure bad actors violating Illinois labor laws are held accountable, a new law championed by State Senator Omar Aquino will reinforce workers’ rights and streamline investigations.
“Workers uphold critical industries in our state from manufacturing and construction to health care and hospitality,” said Aquino (D-Chicago). “Illinoisans deserve to know that our systems of accountability are functioning as intended. Right now, our laws are unclear, making it more difficult for workers to receive justice after having their rights violated, and most importantly, get paid.”
House Bill 4725 will clarify that the Attorney General’s Workplace Rights Bureau has authority in all state labor and employment laws. The law will also require employers under investigation to allow the Workplace Rights Bureau to inspect the employer’s premises and records as well as interview employees during normal work hours or other reasonable times. Additionally, the law will allow the Attorney General to seek a court order if a witness fails to respond to a subpoena or refuses access to the premises, records or employees.
To protect individuals who come forward, the law will safeguard the identities of individuals who participate in interviews by designating them confidential government informers. This added protection aims to shield workers from retaliation and encourage cooperation in uncovering labor violations, such as wage theft.
According to the Economic Policy Institute, wage theft costs workers an estimated $50 billion per year.
“Misinterpretations of our workers’ rights laws leave businesses stuck in legal proceedings and place avoidable strain on our state resources,” said Aquino. “By clearly defining the Attorney General’s authority, we can cut through delays, streamline investigations and ensure workers receive the timely justice they deserve.”
House Bill 4725 was signed into law on Wednesday and goes into effect Jan. 1, 2027.
