Illinois lawmakers consider ‘Worker Freedom of Speech Act’ to restrict employers
A new bill in the Illinois General Assembly would ban employers from penalizing employees who do not show up to sponsored meetings. Employers could face $1,000 fines.
The Worker Freedom of Speech Act, introduced in the Illinois General Assembly, bans employers from penalizing employees who do not attend sponsored meetings.
Under Senate Bill 3649, such meetings could include communications that express the employer’s opinions on religious or political matters.
The Illinois Federation of Teachers, Chicago Federation of Labor and more than 30 other labor groups filed notices with lawmakers that they are in favor of the bill.
- Illinois Chamber of Commerce
- Illinois Retail Merchants Association
- Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce
- Illinois Manufacturers’ Association
- Illinois Hotel & Lodging Association
- National Federation of Independent Business
Senate Floor Amendment No. 2 adds a civil penalty of $1,000 for each violation of the Act and a process for employees or interested parties to assert violations and bring actions for penalties.
The amendment also clarifies the Act does not prohibit certain organizations, such as political organizations, the General Assembly or religious organizations, from requiring their employees to attend employer-sponsored meetings. The Labor & Commerce Committee will hold a hearing to discuss SB 3649 on May 20.