Illinois workers have reason to celebrate today as a new law guarantees them five days of paid leave.

The Chicago Sun Times reports:

“Gov. J.B. Pritzker on Monday signed into law a bill ensuring at least 40 hours of paid leave for Illinois workers.

Effective Jan. 1, 2024, workers will begin to earn paid leave on their first day at a rate of one hour of leave for every 40 hours worked, up to 40 hours of paid leave for the year. Employees can begin using their paid leave either 90 days after their employment begins or 90 days after the act’s effective date.

Employers are free to offer more than 40 hours.

‘Today we will become the third state in the nation to require paid time off and the first among the largest states,’ Pritzker said at a bill-signing ceremony in Chicago. ‘I’m exceptionally proud that labor and business came together to recognize the value of this requirement to employees and employers alike.’

The measure passed in both chambers earlier this year during the 102nd General Assembly’s lame duck session.

Prior to the act’s effective date, Illinois workers have not been guaranteed paid time off for sick leave, child care, medical appointments or any other reason.”

For the rest of the story, visit the Chicago Sun Times here.