Illinois Expands One Day Rest in Seven Act (ODRISA) - HR ALERTS

Illinois Expands One Day Rest in Seven Act (ODRISA)

Effective:  March 21, 2025

Effective March 21, 2025, amendments to Illinois’ One Day Rest in Seven Act (ODRISA) further strengthen worker protections, including a new prohibition on retaliation.

Key Updates:

• Rest and Meal Breaks:

  • Employees must receive at least 24 consecutive hours of rest in every 7-day period.

  • A 20-minute meal break is required for shifts of 7.5 hours or more (no later than 5 hours into the shift).

  • Employees working 12 hours or more must receive a second 20-minute break.

• Anti-Retaliation Provision:

  • Employers may not retaliate against employees for asserting their rights under ODRISA.

  • This includes protection for filing complaints, participating in investigations, or testifying under the law.

• Enforcement:

  • The Illinois Department of Labor is authorized to investigate complaints and impose remedies such as back pay, reinstatement, and damages.

• Posting Requirement:

  • Employers must post a notice outlining these rights in a conspicuous location at the worksite.

Employers with Illinois-based employees should review current policies and ensure frontline managers are aware of the updated requirements.

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