ILLINOIS MINIMUM WAGE INCREASE: BEYOND THE HEADLINE
On February 19, 2019, Governor J.B. Pritzker signed amendments to the Illinois Minimum Wage Law (IMWL) into law, increasing the state minimum wage in stages from the current $8.25 to $15.00 per hour by January 1, 2025.
While this action was anticipated, Employers should not overlook other important changes to the IMWL. Damages recoverable by employees for violations of the IMWL have been sharply increased and there are substantial fines and penalties that can be assessed by the Illinois Department of Labor (IDOL).
The amendments also authorize the IDOL to conduct random audits of employers.