May 20, 2014
By Maura Zurick
SPRINGFIELD — Illinois employers (click here) could not fire, segregate against, or refuse to hire women for being pregnant under legislation the Senate approved today.
Sponsoring Sen. Toi Hutchinson, D-Olympia Fields, said the measure aims to eliminate the tough decision some women face by keeping them working but offering accommodations like time off after childbirth.
"This is actually very interesting that we need to do something like this in 2014," she said.
The bill passed 57-0 and now goes to the House. It also would require employers to make reasonable accommodations based on a woman’s needs, but a boss can ask for a doctor’s note. Employers could try to accommodate pregnant women by limiting physical duties such as heavy lifting or giving them time for doctor visits and care after birth. The bill also includes things like longer rest room and water breaks.
“In 2014, no woman should have to choose between a job or a career and the ability to provide for her family,” Hutchinson said....
