Villa Backs Measure to Prevent Age Discrimination in Hiring Process

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – To prevent age discrimination in the hiring process, state Rep. Karina Villa, D-West Chicago, is supportive of legislation that would prohibit employers from asking an applicant’s college graduate date on their application or initial interview.

“Under this measure, qualified applicants will be screened solely by their capabilities, competence, experience and suitability for the position they are applying for, ensuring that an applicant’s age is not a contributing factor,” said Villa. “By banning employers from asking applicants their age or their college graduation date, we help prevent age discrimination in the hiring process.”

Motivated by her social work background and dedication to support workers, Villa is backing House Bill 5159. Through this proposed legislation, if an employer asks an applicant any age identifying question throughout the application and interviewing processes, the employer will have committed a civil rights violation.

“Applicants of varying ages should be given the opportunity to apply and interview for an open position without the discouragement of an employer perceiving age as the deciding factor to even beginning the interview process,” stated Villa. “To ensure inclusivity and equality in Illinois, this legislation is one step forward in making our state and communities stronger.”