Illinois law signed to provide mandatory paid time off for employees

Illinois has become one of three U.S. states to mandate paid time off “for any reason,” up to 40 hours per year for full-time employees. 

Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed the measure into law on Monday.

Small business owners in Illinois say they know the importance of taking care of their workers, but some view the paid leave requirement as another government-imposed burden.

The legislation takes effect on Jan. 1, 2024. Employees will accrue one hour of paid leave for every 40 hours worked up to 40 hours total, and can start using the time once they’ve worked for 90 days.

Proponents argue the policy supports both business owners and workers, and that guaranteeing paid leave will foster a healthier, more productive workforce.

“When folks have the kind of paid time off they need, they’re able to stay home when they’re sick,” said Molly Weston Williamson, who tracks paid leave policy at the research and advocacy group Center for American Progress.

Rep. Jehan Gordon-Booth, a Peoria Democrat who sponsored the legislation, said at Monday’s bill signing that the law in particular will help low-wage workers, who are those less likely to have paid time off.

For Sandy and Dave Schoenborn, a couple who own the Lincoln Theatre in Belleville, Illinois, the state mandate is a major concern. “I’m pretty worried,” Sandy Schoeborn said. “Unless business gets better, it’s gonna be a strain.”

Paid leave is something employees should earn, not be entitled to, she said. “I can’t say no. If if I have a big event coming up and everybody decides to take off, I’m in a world of hurt.”

The pandemic, inflation, utility prices — “it just all seems to be piling up,” and mandatory paid leave is now another hurdle for business owners.

“It just drives the cost up, drives the prices up, and the consumer pays the bill,” Springfield amusement park owner Doug Knight said.





Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker signs into law the Paid Leave For All Workers Act as Illinois House Speaker pro-tem Jehan Gordon Booth, left, Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton, second from left, and Senate Majority Leader Kimberly Lightford, right, watch on Monday, March 13, 2023, in Chicago. Illinois became one of three U.S. states to require employers to offer paid time off for any reason starting in January of 2024. (AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast)