Halpin Proposes Worker Protection Unit to Combat Workplace Mistreatment

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – State Rep. Mike Halpin, D-Rock Island, is supporting a proposed worker protection division in the attorney general’s office to ensure on-time payment, safe working conditions and fair hiring practices for Illinois employees. 

“Our focus needs to be on creating good jobs, and that means fair pay and safe workplaces,” Halpin said. “This legislation is focused solely on lifting up working families and building a strong middle class by cracking down on bad actors; those businesses that commit wage theft and put profits ahead of worker safety.”

Halpin is supporting Senate Bill 161, which creates a “Worker Protection Unit” within the attorney general’s office. The unit would focus on investigating instances of unsafe working conditions, non-payment of wages, unfair hiring practices and discriminatory behavior across the state at all levels of business. Halpin’s legislation also creates the “Worker Protection Task Force” which will refine investigative methods and spread awareness of businesses that exploit workers.

“Illinois workers deserve to have people looking out for their interests,” Halpin said. “Unfair and illegal employment practices can’t be allowed to continue. If owners treat their employees fairly and safely, and pay them a decent wage, communities across the state will be strong.”