Illinois-Specific Labor Laws
Employees are the backbone of any business. Accordingly, business owners must diligently work to ensure that they comply with federal and state employment laws. While these regulations govern many different aspects of employer-employee relations, a central facet of the law focuses on the minimum amounts of compensation and “off-time” that employees must receive.
Although many business owners are familiar with basic federal regulations, some may not know about certain laws that only apply in the state of Illinois. This includes the Illinois Minimum Wage Law (IMWL) and the One Day Rest in Seven Act (ODRISA) laws.
The Illinois Minimum Wage Law
The minimum wage mandated by the federal government is $7.25 per hour. However, the IMWL provides a minimum hourly rate of $8.25 for every nonsalaried worker in the state.
However, there are exceptions to the law. Employers are able to pay employees $7.75 per hour for the first 90 days of their employment, and workers under the age of 18 may receive payment at the same rate for their tenure at the company. Like in all other states, an hourly worker is also entitled to time-and-a-half pay if he or she works over 40 hours in one week.
One Day Rest in Seven Act
In accordance with ODRISA, every worker in the state of Illinois must receive a twenty-four hour rest period per each calendar week. However, employers may apply for a permit that allows employees to work seven days a week, if the employees voluntarily agree to do so.
The Importance of Ensuring Your Business is in Compliance
All business owners should take the time to ensure that they comply with all relevant employment regulations, whether they are a private company, small business or non-profit organization. In addition to the IMWL and ODRISA, companies should be aware of the following laws:
- Fair Labor Standards Act
- Family and Medical Leave Act
- Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits discrimination
- The Norris-LaGuardia Act, or the freedom to organize and unionize
- The Occupational Safety and Health Act
An experienced Des Plaines attorney can work with your business to identify any potential problem areas, which could potentially save you from the expense and threat of employment lawsuits.
We Have Experience Upholding the Rights of Businesses Across Chicagoland
Our Hoffman Estates lawyers have the knowledge and qualifications your business needs to receive protection and defense for preventable legal actions. If you are facing litigation due to an alleged violation of Illinois employment laws or want to ensure compliance, we are prepared to work with you to find a solution. Contact our Hoffman Estates attorneys today to discuss how our firm may be able to provide the best legal counsel for your business law needs.