Springfield, IL (WAND) – Gov. JB Pritzker signed a bill into law Friday to improve workplace accommodations and access to menstrual products on construction sites. Sponsors argue every worker deserves to be treated with dignity.
Members of the Chicago Women in Trades believe construction workers who menstruate, are pregnant, or lactating have been expected to work without basic accommodations for far too long.
“Folks have had the experience of losing their jobs or being docked pay and treated unfairly because they needed extra time to use facilities off-site,” said Rep. Theresa Mah (D-Chicago).
The new law states employers must provide a separate restroom designated for workers who menstruate or are lactating. It also establishes minimum sanitation standards, requires tampons and pads to be available at no cost and protects workers who report violations from retaliation.
“I just find it a bit ironic that this chamber is now going to put this in place for grown women to have their own areas for this purpose, yet we require the schools allow kids to use the same bathroom facilities,” said Rep. Dan Ugaste (R-Geneva).
The law gives workers a clear process for requesting public health inspections and improves accommodations for workers who are lactating as well.
“IDPH with IDHR will provide guidance to employers on lactation accommodations through a website or other means by Jan. 1, 2027,” said Sen. Graciela Guzmán.
Senate Bill 3465 passed out of the House on a partisan 71-37 vote. The measure received a 45-13 vote in the Senate.
