Jones Joins Effort to Expand Protections for Illinois Workers

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – State Rep. Thaddeus Jones, D-Calumet City, is fighting to make sure temporary workers in Illinois receive fair pay, workplace protections and the same legal rights as similar full-time workers.

“The Great Recession forced many to seek employment opportunities through temp firms, and it’s important that these workers receive the same protections as their full-time colleagues,” Jones said. “Hardworking men and women deserve to have safe workplaces and fair wages regardless of their employment status.”

Jones is sponsoring House Bill 690, which would address current gaps in employment law which result in temporary workers receiving fewer legal protections. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, temporary workers are more likely to earn lower wages than full-time employees. Jones’ bill would ensure temp workers receive the same pay and benefits as full-time workers doing the same job. Jones’ legislation would also require third-party staffing agencies to provide workers with health and safety training, and proper scheduling of assignments, which is something staffing agencies are often criticized for failing to provide.

“Far too often, companies will use loopholes in worker protection laws to abuse temporary and day laborers,” Jones said. “My hope is this legislation cracks down on these abuses and better protects workers.”