SB0020 Summary

• Increases the statute of limitations for filing discrimination charges from 180 to 300 calendar days after an alleged civil rights violation.

• Allows complainants to opt out of the Department's investigation within 60 days and proceed directly to circuit court without prejudicing their right to file a civil action.

• Reduces the Illinois Human Rights Commission from 13 members to 7 members and increases commissioner compensation to $125,000 for the Chairperson and $119,000 for other members, effective January 19, 2019.

• Establishes commissioner qualification requirements including being licensed to practice law in Illinois, having at least 3 years of experience as a hearing officer, or having at least 4 years of professional experience in civil rights matters.

• Requires the Commission to publish decisions within 180 days on its website and to online legal research companies within 14 calendar days, subject to the Personal Information Protection Act.