The 2026 VESSA amendment represents another significant step forward in Illinois’ efforts to strengthen workplace protections for survivors of violence. Beginning January 1, 2026, employees covered by the Victims’ Economic Security and Safety Act (VESSA) will gain new rights that expand beyond existing leave and anti-retaliation provisions. The amendment ensures that employees who use employer-issued equipment to record or preserve evidence of domestic violence, sexual violence, gender violence, or other violent crimes cannot be punished for doing so.

The 2025 Illinois employment laws introduce key changes aimed at enhancing worker protections and ensuring equitable labor practices across the state. Recently, the Illinois Department of Labor updated its required workplace posters and disclosures for 2025, including “Your Rights Under Illinois Employment Laws”. With updates to minimum wage, overtime pay, paid leave, and equal pay regulations, these laws establish clear standards for both employers and employees. Strengthening compliance measures and increasing transparency, these new regulations address workplace fairness, wage security, and employee well-being.