Spring is Here, and Summer is Near!
Thank you for subscribing to the IDOL newsletter. As the season changes, so do the exciting updates from the Illinois Department of Labor (IDOL). In this issue, we cover upcoming events, child labor protections, amusement ride safety, and more. Stay informed with what's happening at IDOL as we work to keep Illinois safe and fair for workers.
Upcoming Events
Mark your calendars for these important upcoming dates:
- May 26 - Memorial Day (Offices Closed)
- June 19 - Juneteenth (Offices Closed)
- July 4 - Independence Day (Offices Closed)
Child Labor Law and Summer Jobs
With summer approaching, many teenagers will be seeking summer employment. The IDOL ensures that workers under 16 are protected through strict regulations, including:
- Requiring an employment certificate
- Prohibiting hazardous work and jobs involving alcohol
- Limiting work hours to prevent early or late shifts (7 a.m. to 9 p.m. during summer months)
For more details on child labor laws, please contact (312) 793-5570.
Amusement Ride and Attraction Safety
Summer fun also means visiting amusement parks, carnivals, and fairs. IDOL regulates these events to ensure safety, requiring that all rides be insured and inspected before operation. Each approved ride is given a permit decal. Check out the example decal here and learn more about ride safety.
Leave Rights Division
IDOL's Leave Rights Division enforces laws that ensure Illinois workers can take paid and unpaid time off. Updated information is available in our FAQ section for laws like the Paid Leave for All Workers Act (PLAWA) and more. To request a presentation, contact Lydia Colunga-Merchant at
[email protected].
Informal Resolution and Mediation Unit: Proactive Resolution Project
IDOL's Informal Resolution and Mediation Unit (IRMU) has been working on resolving wage claims under $250, helping workers get paid faster while saving employers time and resources. In the last quarter of 2024 alone, nearly $20,000 was collected from over 275 claims.
Thank you for staying up to date with IDOL. We appreciate your continued support in ensuring fair working conditions across Illinois.