Pritzker Signs Bill Mandating Paid Leave For Nearly All Workers in Illinois

[brooklynite]

WMAQ Chicago

Nearly all workers in the state of Illinois will soon officially be guaranteed at least one week of paid leave, under legislation signed Monday by Gov. J.B. Pritzker.

"Working families face so many challenges, and it's been my mission to alleviate all those burdens in every way that I can," Pritzker said at a bill signing ceremony. "Too many people can't afford to miss even a day's pay. But then crises arise, sometimes seemingly small, sometimes catastrophic, and they live in fear of losing income vital to their family's survival or other repercussions at work..."

The “Paid Leave for All Workers Act” states that employees will accrue one hour of paid leave for every 40 hours worked up to 40 hours total, although the employer may offer more. Employees can start using the time once they have worked for 90 days, the legislation says.

And, unlike similar bills in other states, the expansive paid leave legislation would require Illinois employers to give workers time off based on hours worked, to be used for any reason -- not just for health reasons.

[questionseverything]

1. This would of made more sense if it excluded small businesses ( 10 employees or less)

For a small mom and pop store this could be devastating

[Freethinker65]

2. I assume this is not in addition to paid time off already given by employers to employees?

IF it merely sets a minimum of earned paid time off, it should not devastate a small employer. Many small employers already offer such benefits, at a minimum, to attract and retain employees.

[questionseverything]

4. Small independent restaurants have a tiny profit margin

I should of said, less than 20 employees not 10

I disagree about small employers already giving paid sick time off, at least here in downstate Illinois that’s not the case

[Freethinker65]

5. Personally I don't want a sick employee preparing nor serving my food.

I live in a Chicago suburb that opted out of Cook County's similar worker friendly policy. We, as a community, voted to provide sick days and increase minimum wage but were over-ruled by board members. I am still angry about that. Glad the State stepped in.

[questionseverything]

6. It's nearly impossible for a regular person to start a small business as is

Which allows the huge corporations to control everything

shrugs

[Arazi]

3. Pritzker moves up on my list of 2028 Presidential contenders

Bravo!