Tuesday, September 15, 2015

Illinois Employers - School is Back in Session: Your Employees May Take Time Off for School Visitation Under the Law

September 2015
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.
What employees are covered?
  • Employed at least six months.
  • Employed at least half-time.
What child is covered?
  • Child includes biological, adopted, foster, step-child or legal ward of the employee.
How much leave is allowed?
  • 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.
What must employee do to qualify for leave?
  • 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.