Yingling-Backed Bill to Protect Illinois Workers amid COVID-19 Pandemic Awaits Governor’s Signature

ROUND LAKE BEACH, Ill. – In an effort to establish new protections for Illinois’ working men and women during the COVID-19 pandemic, state Rep. Sam Yingling, D-Grayslake, supported legislation that expands unemployment benefits and protections to furloughed employees working on the frontlines.

“Unemployment in Illinois and across the entire country has soared to unprecedented levels as a result of the pandemic we are continuing to confront,” said Yingling. “To offer assistance to the thousands of workers struggling to navigate the economic impact of COVID-19, I co-sponsored a bill to make sure laid off and furloughed workers receive unemployment benefits during this challenging time.

The Yingling-backed Senate Bill 471 would also establish a temporary 60-day extension of benefits for disabled workers who sustained workplace injuries on the job during the COVID-19 pandemic. This sought-after change in law comes as many physical therapy and other treatment institutions were mandated to temporarily close their doors to prevent the ongoing spread of the virus, and it would only remain in effect through the end of the year. 

“Our first responders and other frontline workers continue to protect and provide goods and services to our families as we continue to fully confront the challenges associated with coronavirus,” said Yingling. “It is critical that we look out for their interests as they continue to go above and beyond to provide us with the resources we need during this time.”