Senate Democrat-led measure guaranteeing paid leave for Illinois workers signed into law

• Guarantee paid leave
• State Employees
• Sick Leave

Senate Majority Leader Kimberly A. Lightford joined fellow Senate Democrats in applauding the signing of the Paid Leave for All Workers Act on Monday, making Illinois the third state in the U.S. to guarantee paid leave.

“It’s not uncommon for life to get in the way of work – be it your child unexpectedly gets sick or your car breaks down. You shouldn’t be punished for these everyday obstacles,” said Lightford (D-Maywood), whose decades of work lifting up working families has included championing numerous increases to the state’s minimum wage and expanding worker protections for employees targeted by layoffs. “With the signing of this legislation, we are leading a significant, positive impact on the lives of residents across our state and underscoring our commitment to uplifting working families.”

Under the new law, all employers in Illinois will be required to provide their employees with a minimum of 40 hours of paid leave per year that can be used for any reason. A worker would begin to earn paid leave on their first day of employment at a rate of one hour of leave for every 40 hours worked. Starting on March 31, 2024, or 90 days following commencement of employment, workers can begin using their earned time off for any reason without the requirement of providing documentation to their employer.

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Leader Lightford celebrates over $1 million for local park projects

• Grants
• OSLAD
• Forest Park
• Westchester Park
• IDNR

MAYWOOD – The Park District of Forest Park and Westchester Park District are set to receive over $1 million for land acquisition and development for parks and outdoor recreation projects, Senate Majority Leader Kimberly A. Lightford announced Friday.

“This funding will have a positive impact on our communities and help ensure they stay vibrant and welcoming,” said Lightford (D-Maywood). “Friends walking in the park, families going to the playground or individuals walking their dog will all feel the benefits of this grant program.”

The Open Space Land Acquisition and Development program is a cost-sharing program between state and local governments that has become one of the most popular grant programs in Illinois. The Park District of Forest Park is set to receive $424,200 and Westchester Park District will receive $600,000.

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Lightford celebrates Black History Month

• Black Caucus
• Black History Month
• Black History

In honor of Black History Month, Senate members of the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus shared Black history figures, events and moments that had the biggest impacts in their life. Check out what I shared here. #blackhistory

Lightford sits down with Cory Thames on "In My Own Words" podcast

• Video
• Legislature
• Podcast

I had the opportunity to speak with Cory Thames on his podcast,” In My Own Words,” at CAN TV and share my life experiences and struggles I have faced. I am grateful to have shared these experiences that shaped my political journey and inspired the legislation I have worked on tirelessly to this day.

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