WEST CHICAGO, Ill. — Every worker in Illinois will have access to paid leave that can be used for any reason under a new law backed by state Rep. Maura Hirschauer, D-Batavia.

“Not all parents can call off work to care for their sick child, and too many people have no way to take time for their mental health or life needs,” Hirschauer said. “This legislation addresses working parents’ needs by allowing them to take off during unexpected circumstances. Requiring that all employees receive paid leave protects Illinois working families from having to choose between losing a paycheck and caring for a family member.”

Hirschauer voted to pass the Paid Leave for All Workers Act, which requires all employers to grant their employees working a minimum of 40 hours a week five days of paid leave per year for personal use. Under this new law, workers can earn paid leave starting on their first day of employment, which translates to one hour of leave for every 40 hours of work. The law ensures that employees can use their paid leave as soon as the 90th day of employment. Paid leave may be used as employees desire to conduct personal business without providing a reason or any documentation or certification for the absence. The law will take effect on Jan. 1, 2024

“As a working parent, I understand the unexpectedness of family illnesses, doctor appointments, and or auto repair emergencies,” Hirschauer said. No one should be penalized or lose a paycheck for missing work because of an unforeseen emergency. This legislation is a step in the right direction, and we need more like it to address working families’ needs.”

For more information, please contact office@repmaura49.com.

Rep. Maura Hirschauer

Rep. Maura Hirschauer

(D-Batavia)
49th District

Springfield Office:
271-S Stratton Office Building
Springfield, IL 62706
(217) 782-1653

District Office:
946 Neltnor Blvd #108
West Chicago IL 60185

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. —State Rep. Maura Hirschauer, D-Batavia, is working hard to pass a bill that will provide fair compensation for all educational support service employees in Illinois.

“Our school employees are the backbone of our education system,” Hirschauer said. “They play a large role in our children’s lives by ensuring that every student has the support they need to thrive. Yet, so many of these dedicated individuals struggle to make ends meet, which is why they deserve fair compensation for their hard work.”

The proposed bill will amend the Employment of Teachers Article of the School Code, which will increase the minimum hourly rate for school district employees to a rate of not less than $20 for the 2024-2025 school year and increase by a dollar consecutively through the 2026-2027 school year. The legislation aims to provide educational support service employees with a fair and livable wage, including custodial employees, transportation employees, food service providers, classroom assistants, and administration staff.

“Behind every student, there is a team of dedicated school employees who work tirelessly to ensure their success,” Hirschauer said. “This bill is not just about fair wages, it’s also about showing our appreciation for those who care for our children every day. It’s time we stand together to demonstrate to these incredible individuals that their selflessness and dedication have not gone unnoticed.”

For more information, please contact office@repmaura49.com.

Rep. Maura Hirschauer

Rep. Maura Hirschauer

(D-Batavia)
49th District

Springfield Office:
271-S Stratton Office Building
Springfield, IL 62706
(217) 782-1653

District Office:
946 Neltnor Blvd #108
West Chicago IL 60185