Illinois’ Pay Transparency Law Goes Into Effect: Advancing Equity in the Workforce

Starting this year, Illinois workers will have greater access to crucial pay information, thanks to the Pay Transparency amendment to the Illinois Equal Pay Act of 2003. Passed during the 2023 legislative session, this groundbreaking law requires employers with over 15 employees to include pay scales and benefit details in job postings. Additionally, employers must notify their current employees of all promotion opportunities within 14 days of any external job posting.

This significant step forward was a priority on the 2023 Skills Agenda, led by the Chicago Jobs Council’s (CJC) Skills Agenda Table, a coalition dedicated to creating a fairer workforce development system. Laws like these ensure transparency, promote fairness, and help dismantle systemic inequities in employment practices, aligning with CJC’s mission to remove barriers to employment and foster a workforce development system that works for everyone, especially those disproportionately affected by systemic injustices.

The passage of this law was made possible through collective efforts. “We’re grateful to Rep. Canty, Sen. Pacione-Zayas, and partners like Women Employed and the Shriver Center on Poverty Law for helping pass Pay Transparency in Illinois,” said Annika Cole, CJC Advocacy Manager. This collaboration highlights the power of advocacy and coalition-building in driving meaningful policy change.

As we celebrate the implementation of this law, CJC remains committed to advancing policies that prioritize equity and fairness. To learn more about the Pay Transparency law and how it impacts employers and workers alike, visit Women Employed’s FAQ page. Together, we’re building a more equitable Illinois where everyone can access opportunities and a path to meaningful employment.