SB2268 Summary

• Creates a Worker Protection Unit within the Illinois Attorney General's Office to enforce violations of the Prevailing Wage Act, Employee Classification Act, Minimum Wage Law, Day and Temporary Labor Services Act, and Wage Payment and Collection Act.

• Grants the Attorney General power to initiate criminal or civil legal proceedings, conduct investigations, require sworn statements, examine witnesses under oath, and issue subpoenas related to worker protection violations.

• Authorizes the Attorney General to seek monetary damages, restitution, injunctive relief, and civil penalties not to exceed the penalties specified in the respective violated statutes, with a limit that injured individuals cannot recover in more than one proceeding.

• Establishes a Worker Protection Task Force coordinated by the Attorney General and composed of elected State's Attorneys (or their designees) to promote statewide outreach and enforcement against the underground economy, share information on worker exploitation, and work with labor organizations and community groups.

• Task Force must submit a progress report to the Governor and General Assembly by December 1, 2018, and the Task Force provision expires December 1, 2019.