IL SB3649

Prohibits employers from discharging, disciplining, or penalizing employees who decline to attend employer-sponsored meetings or communications about religious or political matters.

Defines "political matters" as elections, political parties, legislation changes, public policy changes, and membership in political or civic organizations; defines "religious matters" as religious belief, affiliation, practice, and membership in religious organizations.

Employees may bring civil actions within one year of alleged violations and recover back pay, reinstatement, benefits restoration, injunctive relief, attorney's fees, and court-ordered relief to make the employee whole.

Department of Labor investigates complaints from interested parties and can assess $1,000 civil penalties per violation (per affected employee); interested parties may pursue civil action for penalties after 180 days if Department does not resolve the complaint.

Employers must post notice of employee rights under this Act within 30 days of the law's effective date.