SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Omar Aquino advanced a measure to bolster protections for Illinois workers and strengthen the state’s ability to hold bad actors accountable.   

“At a time when the federal government has rolled back worker protections, Illinois must step in to address the prevalent violations of workers’ rights in our state,” said Aquino (D-Chicago).  “When workers’ rights are undermined, that means people have less money in their pockets and face employment instability, which families cannot afford.”

Senate Bill 3183 would require employers under investigation to allow the Attorney General’s Workplace Rights Bureau to inspect the employer’s premises and records as well as interview employees during normal work hours. The measure would also allow the Attorney General to seek a court order to force compliance if a witness fails to respond to a subpoena or refuses access to the premises, records or employees.

To further protect employees who come forward, the legislation would safeguard the identities of workers who voluntarily participate in investigations by designating them as confidential government informers. This added protection aims to shield workers from retaliation and encourage cooperation in uncovering labor violations, such as wage theft. According to the Economic Policy Institute, wage theft costs workers an estimated $50 billion per year.

“Across our state, workers have experienced wage theft and other violations, yet ambiguities in current law prevent our Attorney General from ensuring full enforcement, delaying justice and preventing employees from recovering the wages they are owed,” said Aquino. “By clarifying the Attorney General’s authority, we can streamline investigations, avoid prolonged legal proceedings and help businesses move out of legal limbo sooner while delivering swift justice to Illinois workers.”

Senate Bill 3183 passed the Senate Judiciary Committee Wednesday.