Avelar Aims to Step Up Enforcement of Anti- Discrimination Efforts with New Law

ROMEOVILLE, Ill. — As cases of discrimination rise and federal leaders retreat from workplace equity and public accommodation efforts, state Rep. Dagmara “Dee” Avelar, D- Bolingbrook, is providing new tools to help Illinois enforce basic human rights policies with a new law streamlining the investigation process and enhancing protections.

“Moving away from a one-size-fits-all approach when investigating discrimination cases cuts red tape and allows human rights investigators to promptly address the growing number of cases we’re seeing statewide,” said Avelar. “This move also alleviates troubling staff burdens as the department handles a significant uptick in caseload due to federal civil rights agencies gutting staff.”

The Illinois Department of Human Rights (IDHR) is the agency responsible for investigating and enforcing the state’s anti-discrimination law. Avelar’s Senate Bill 2487 seeks to streamline the department’s investigations and improve efficiency by allowing the agency to determine whether a “fact-finding conference” is necessary on a case-by-case basis. Currently, IDHR is required to hold a fact-finding conference for most discrimination cases. The change aims to prevent unnecessary delays and ensure that each discrimination charge receives a tailored investigation.

Additionally, the legislation outlines civil penalties, allowing monetary fines in cases of egregious or systematic discrimination involving multiple violations of the human rights law.

“IDHR is in a position where it must fill the gap and handle an increased number of discrimination charges, but without change, cases will fall through the cracks and repeat violations unseen,” said Avelar. “Streamlining their investigation process and treating cases on an individual basis equips them to meet the moment and protects our civil rights enforcement here in Illinois.”

Senate Bill 2487 was signed into law Friday and will go into effect January 1 of next year.