Chicago Business Litigation Lawyer Blog
In a dynamic world where the nature of work is evolving rapidly, the Illinois Freedom to Work Act stands as a beacon of hope for both employees and employers alike. This legislation, enacted in 2017, brought about significant changes in Illinois’ labor laws, fostering a more flexible and worker-friendly environment. In this blog post, we will delve into the key provisions of the Illinois Freedom to Work Act and explore how it has reshaped the employment landscape in the state.
Understanding the Illinois Freedom to Work Act
The Illinois Freedom to Work Act is a landmark piece of legislation designed to empower workers and enhance economic freedom. It eliminates the use of non-compete agreements for low-wage employees, providing them with the opportunity to seek employment without restrictions after leaving a job. The act was signed into law by then-Governor Bruce Rauner and has since created a more level playing field for employees in Illinois.
Key Provisions of the Act
- Non-Compete Agreements Limited: One of the primary aims of the Illinois Freedom to Work Act is to restrict the use of non-compete agreements for low-wage employees. This means that workers in lower-income positions are no longer bound by these restrictive covenants that prevented them from pursuing similar roles in the same industry after leaving their current job.
- Minimum Wage Threshold: To be considered a low-wage employee under the act, the individual’s earnings must not exceed the greater of either the applicable federal, state, or local minimum wage. This ensures that the legislation targets those who are most vulnerable to exploitation in the labor market.
- You must be given 14 days to review the agreement and told you have an opportunity for lawyer to review of the agreement.
- Protecting Employee Rights: The Act empowers workers by allowing them to challenge non-compete agreements in court. If an employer enforces an invalid non-compete agreement against a low-wage employee, the employee can seek legal remedies, including injunctive relief and damages.