On January 21st, Governor JB Pritzker signed the bipartisan Dignity in Pay Act (HB793) into law alongside bill sponsors Representative Theresa Mah and Senator Cristina Castro.

Governor Pritzker signing the Bipartisan Dignity in Pay Act.

Governor Pritzker signing the Bipartisan Dignity in Pay Act. Photo shared on the governor’s Facebook page.

The Dignity in Pay Act primarily implements a plan to phase out 14(c) subminimum wage authorizations in Illinois, joining 18 other states in doing so. The Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS), the Illinois Council on Developmental Disabilities (ICDD) and the Illinois Department of Labor will lead the 5-year process—eliminating subminimum wage for people with disabilities by December 31, 2029. “The labor of people with disabilities deserves equal pay for equal work.”

“The signing of the Dignity in Pay Act marks an important moment for disability rights and economic justice in Illinois,” said Karen Tamley, CEO of Access Living.

“By eliminating the subminimum wage, we are affirming the value and dignity of disabled workers and taking a bold step toward a more inclusive and equitable future. Access Living is proud to have played a role in this transformative effort.” View the full statement here.

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