An amendment to the Illinois Gender Violence Act (740 ILCS 82 et seq.), codified as Public Act No. 103-0282, was signed by Governor J.B. Pritzker on July 28, 2023, and takes effect from January 1, 2024. This legislation marks a significant development for legal professionals, particularly those operating in the corporate sector, as it expands the application of the law to employers in specific situations.
The amendment updates the definition of “gender-related violence” within the legislation, incorporating “domestic violence” as defined by the Victims’ Economic Security and Safety Act. The revised verbiage in the bill signifies a broader interpretation of gender-related violence, taking into account scenarios of domestic abuse, which has significant implications for employers and corporates.
This change is expected to impact employment practices and human resources policies, and may augment the role of in-house legal counsel in large corporations. Corporates will need to adjust their existing policies to address the revised definitions and standards set by the amended Act.
Companies across Illinois should pay attention to this law amendment, understanding the nuances, potential liabilities, and legal implications. Organizations could be held more accountable, compelling them to take careful measures against gender-related violence that may occur in all shapes and forms within their jurisdiction.
More details about the specifics of the Illinois Gender Violence Act amendment can be found at this link.