Agencies
Services
FAQ About Civil Rights Legislation
Common Questions About Civil Rights Legislation
Here are answers to questions we hear frequently about how legislation affects civil rights protections in Illinois.
- 1. How does Illinois law differ from federal civil rights protections?
- 2. What is the legislative process for expanding civil rights protections?
- 3. How can I stay informed about legislative developments?
Illinois law provides broader protections than federal law in several important ways. The Illinois Human Rights Act covers more protected categories (including sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, arrest record, source of income, immigration status, and others), applies to smaller employers, and has longer timeframes for filing complaints. While federal law provides important baseline protections, Illinois law often goes further to address discrimination.
Expanding the Illinois Human Rights Act requires collaboration among many stakeholders:
- Bill Introduction: Legislation is introduced by members of the Illinois General Assembly, often in consultation with civil rights advocates, affected communities, and agencies like IDHR.
- Committee Review: Bills receive hearings in relevant committees where stakeholders provide testimony and bills may be amended.
- Legislative Passage: Bills must pass both the Illinois House and Senate before going to the Governor for signature.
- Implementation: After the Governor signs a bill, IDHR may develop rules, provide public education, and update training and enforcement procedures.
We encourage you to:
• Check this page regularly for updates on new laws and legislative activity,
• Subscribe to IDHR news and announcements. Watch this space for sign-up options.
• Track specific bills through the Illinois General Assembly website.
• Get free, online trainings from IDHR's Institute for Training and Development.
Email idhr.legislativeaffairs@illinois.gov for inquiries.