Illinois Mandates Paid Leave What it Means for Workers and Employers

 

Courtesy: NBC News

Illinois is on the verge of becoming the sixth state in the United States to mandate paid leave for nearly all workers. The state legislature has passed a bill that would require employers to provide workers with at least five days of paid leave per year, beginning in 2022.

The bill, which was passed with overwhelming support in both the House and the Senate, is aimed at helping workers who may need time off for illness, personal emergencies, or to care for a family member. According to the National Partnership for Women and Families, more than 2 million workers in Illinois do not have access to paid leave.

Under the new law, employers with fewer than 50 employees would be required to provide unpaid leave, while larger employers would have to provide paid leave. The leave would be available to full-time, part-time, and temporary workers, and would accrue at a rate of one hour for every 40 hours worked.

The bill has been praised by advocates for workers' rights, who say that paid leave is a crucial benefit that can help workers balance the demands of work and family. Studies have shown that workers who have access to paid leave are more likely to take time off when they need it, and are less likely to experience financial hardship as a result.

Opponents of the bill, however, argue that it will place an undue burden on businesses, particularly small businesses. Some business groups have also expressed concern that the bill could lead to an increase in frivolous lawsuits.

Despite these concerns, the bill is expected to be signed into law by Governor J.B. Pritzker, who has been a vocal supporter of paid leave. With the passage of this bill, Illinois joins a growing number of states that have recognized the importance of paid leave in supporting workers and their families.