SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — The Illinois Department of Human Rights will extend the time it allows people to file cases with the agency in the new year.
For all cases not related to housing, the statute of limitations to file a charge of discrimination, harassment, or retaliation will increase from 300 days to two years. This includes discrimination related to employment, financial credit services, and public services and accommodations.
“Illinois has one of the strongest sets of civil rights protections of any state,” said IDHR Director Jim Bennett. “By extending the deadline to file from 300 days to two years, Illinois joins 11 other states that have provided a greater opportunity to seek the protections and redress afforded by the Human Rights Act.”
State leaders said people who have experienced discrimination often need more time to recover from the trauma, realize what happened to them was a civil rights negotiation, or engage in settlement negotiations first.
“This legislative change is about giving survivors the time and support they need to come forward,” said Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton. “We recognize that healing is not linear, and extending the statute of limitations reflects our commitment to empowering those seeking accountability and ensuring their voices are heard.”
In housing discrimination cases, the amount of time to file remains unchanged: one year to file a charge with IDHR or two years to file a complaint in circuit court.
More information on Illinois’ Human Rights Act or the department’s rules and regulations can be found by calling (312) 814-6262 or by completing the Contact IDHR online form.