Illinois has enacted legislation (House Bill 121) that expressly prohibits employers from discriminating against individuals based on their work-authorization status. House Bill 121 is effective immediately.
Background:
The Illinois Human Rights Act (IHRA) prohibits discrimination and harassment against applicants and employees because of their race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, age, sex, pregnancy, disability, marital status, order of protection status, military status, sexual orientation, unfavorable discharge from military service or citizenship status.
House Bill 121:
Under House Bill 121, discrimination and harassment against applicants and employees based on their work-authorization status is also expressly prohibited. The law defines work-authorization status as one of being an individual who was born outside of the United States, and not a U.S. citizen, who is authorized by the federal government to work in the United States.
Compliance recommendations:
Illinois employers should review their policies and trainings to ensure compliance with House Bill 121.