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What actions should my business take to comply with employment laws in Illinois?

Picture of Chris Battis By   ·  1 minute read

To comply with employment laws in Illinois, your business should take the following actions:

  1. Follow minimum wage and overtime laws: Illinois has a minimum wage of $11.00 per hour, and employers must pay overtime to non-exempt employees who work over 40 hours per week. Make sure you are properly classifying your employees as exempt or non-exempt under the Fair Labor Standards Act and follow all wage and hour laws.
  2. Adhere to anti-discrimination laws: Illinois prohibits discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, and pregnancy. Ensure that your hiring, firing, and promotion practices do not discriminate against employees based on these protected characteristics.
  3. Comply with leave laws: Illinois has several leave laws, including the Illinois Human Rights Act, which requires employers to provide reasonable accommodations for employees with disabilities, and the Family and Medical Leave Act, which requires certain employers to provide unpaid leave for eligible employees. Make sure you are aware of your obligations under these laws.
  4. Provide a safe and healthy workplace: Employers must ensure that their workplace is free from hazards that may cause serious injury or death. This includes complying with Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations and providing appropriate training and protective equipment.
  5. Properly classify employees: Make sure you are properly classifying your employees as employees, independent contractors, or interns under Illinois law. Misclassifying employees can result in violations of wage and hour laws and other legal consequences.
  6. Keep accurate records: Employers must keep accurate records of employee wages, hours worked, and other employment-related information. Improper record-keeping can result in legal penalties and fines.

It is important to note that there may be additional laws and regulations that apply to your specific business, and it is recommended to consult with a licensed attorney for specific legal advice. Additionally, it is important for businesses to stay up to date on changes to employment laws and regulations in Illinois, as they can change frequently.