SPRINGFIELD — Across Illinois, workers are showing up, doing the job and still being paid less – simply because they are a woman or a person of color. A measure from State Senator Robert Peters looks to change that by holding businesses accountable and making sure workers are paid what they are owed.

“People are tired of being shortchanged – especially women and people of color,” said Peters (D-Chicago). “This bill ensures companies can’t hide behind loopholes or changing federal rules to avoid treating workers fairly.”

House Bill 2488 strengthens two of Illinois’ most important worker protection laws: the Equal Pay Act and the Prevailing Wage Act. Under current law, only certain businesses have to report whether they pay workers fairly based on gender and race. Under Peters’ bill, all businesses covered by state law would have to submit a clear statement to the Department of Labor, showing they are not underpaying women or people of color doing the same jobs as others.

The bill also locks in how the state defines job categories, making certain employers would not be able to shift the goalposts if federal rules change. For workers in construction and other trades, the initiative makes sure companies do not cut corners on benefits – clarifying full benefits must be included when figuring out what a worker is owed.

“This is about respect – respect for workers, respect for their time and respect for the promise that a fair day’s work deserves a fair day’s pay,” said Peters. “Illinois is stepping up to make it clear we respect our workers, and we believe everyone should be held to the same standard.”

House Bill 2488 passed the Senate Thursday.