Illinois Legislature Passes SB 3310, Enhancing Human Rights Protections

Springfield, IL — August 26, 2024 — Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker has signed Senate Bill 3310 into law, marking a major advancement in the protection of civil rights in Illinois. This landmark legislation, introduced by Senator Mike Simmons, extends the deadline for filing a charge of discrimination under the Illinois Human Rights Act from 300 calendar days to two years, unless related to real estate transactions. The new law will go into effect on January 1, 2025.

Johanna Raimond and Gail Schnitzer Eisenberg of the National Employment Lawyers Association of Illinois (NELA-IL) initially approached Senator Mike Simmons about modernizing the statute to better protect employee rights. Senator Simmons championed the bill and it was co-sponsored by Senators Adriane Johnson and Mary Edly-Allen. Rep. Curtis J. Tarver, II served as chief co-sponsor in the House and was joined by Rep. Sonya M. Harper, Rep. Camille Y. Lilly, and Rep. Bob Morgan. In addition to NELA-IL, the bill was supported by the ACLU of Illinois, Illinois NOW, Housing Action Illinois, and the National Association of Social Workers – Illinois Chapter.

“This bill is a significant step forward in the fight for human rights and equality,” said attorney Eisenberg, Employment Partner at Loftus and Eisenberg, Ltd. “By extending the period for filing claims, we are making justice more accessible and fairer for all Illinois residents, particularly those who may be struggling with the decision about whether to file, or focusing on the emotional or financial impacts of the discrimination first. Victims need the time to heal.”

“The longer statute of limitations allows Illinois workers the time to attempt to resolve disputes with their employers informally, before engaging the formal legal process,” explains Raimond. “This, in turn, will promote settlement, which saves time and money for all parties.”

The new provisions will be implemented starting January 1, 2025, allowing time for the Illinois Human Rights Department to prepare for the changes and ensure a smooth transition.

For more information about SB 3310 or to request interviews with key stakeholders, please contact please contact jess@loftusandeisenberg.com.

Contact: Loftus & Eisenberg, LTD

Email: jess@loftusandeisenberg.com

This press release provides an overview of SB 3310 and its implications for human rights protections in Illinois, highlighting the legislative process and key sponsors involved in advancing this important reform.