By Anthony J. Caruso, Jr., Esq.
What is the law?
The Illinois School Visitation Rights Act was enacted on December 12, 1992.
What is the purpose of the law?
It grants a leave for employees to attend school conference or classroom activities of their children where such activities cannot be rescheduled for non-work hours.
What employers are covered?
- Public and private employers.
- 50 or more employees in Illinois.
- Employed at least six months.
- Employed at least half-time.
- Child includes biological, adopted, foster, step-child or legal ward of the employee.
- Up to eight hours in a school year.
- No more than four hours taken at any one day.
- Leave is not required to be paid.
- Can only be taken if employee has exhausted all accrued leave time.
- Notice to employer – a written request must be submitted at least seven days in advance, unless emergency – 24 hours required.
- School should provide documentation of the school visitation to the employee for proof to the employer.
Questions? Contact Attorney Anthony J. Caruso Jr. of Wessels Sherman's St. Charles office at (630) 377-1554 or via e-mail ancaruso@wesselssherman.com.
