IL HB5561

Expands the definition of "adverse employment action" to include any action that would dissuade a reasonable worker from making protected disclosures, and adds "retaliatory action" as the operative term throughout the Act.

Broadens whistleblower protections to include disclosures to supervisors and contractors about violations of law or dangers to public health/safety, and adds protections for employees who refuse to participate in unlawful activities.

Adds specific retaliatory actions prohibited, including interference with future employment, discrimination under the Illinois Human Rights Act, and threats to report immigration status.

Increases remedies available to employees, including liquidated damages up to $10,000, front pay, a mandatory $10,000 civil penalty, and litigation costs with attorney's fees.

Creates Attorney General enforcement authority to investigate violations, bring civil actions, and impose civil penalties up to $10,000 per repeat violation within a 5-year period, with each affected employee counting as a separate violation.