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Illinois law prohibits employers from retaliating against employees who report illegal activity, unsafe working conditions, discrimination, harassment or other violations. Thanks to a new law led by State Senator Cristina Castro, workers exercising their rights to break and rest periods are also safeguarded from retaliation.

“Most employers do the right thing — but when the bottom line drives supervisors to create a culture of fear and intimidation, it discourages vulnerable workers from exercising their rights, including their right to go home and be with their families after a week’s work,” said Castro (D-Elgin). “Strengthening the state’s labor laws will help put an end to threats and intimidation in the workplace and improve conditions for everyone.”

Castro’s new law strengthens the One Day Rest in Seven Act, which entitles workers to at least one full day of rest for every seven consecutive work days, by explicitly barring employers from firing, taking adverse action, or discriminating against workers who exercise their rights under ODRISA, such as filing a complaint with the Illinois Department of Labor.

Further, the attorney general now has the ability to enforce the One Day Rest in Seven Act and potentially obtain relief for Illinoisans whose employers violate the law.

Senate Bill 3180 was signed into law Friday and takes effect immediately.