IL SB3005

Amends the Illinois Human Rights Act to expand available remedies for civil rights violations to include all forms of tort relief, specifically emotional distress, pain and suffering, and loss of a normal life.

Authorizes the award of punitive damages to complainants who prevail in civil rights cases, adding this as a new category of relief.

Maintains existing remedies including actual damages, back pay with interest, reinstatement, attorney fees, and civil penalties up to $16,000 for first violations, $42,500 for second violations within 5 years, and $70,000 for repeat offenders.

Introduced January 27, 2026 by Senator Celina Villanueva, modifying Section 8A-104 of the Illinois Human Rights Act (775 ILCS 5/8A-104).