Establishes a Racial Impact Note and prohibits racial discrimination of state employees

SPRINGFIELD – Minority communities would have more information on the effects proposed legislation could have on their community under a measure led by Senate Majority Leader Kimberly A. Lightford (D-Maywood).

Members of the General Assembly would be able to file a Racial Impact Note to any piece of legislation, requiring state agencies to respond with an estimate of the possible effect on minority communities. When considering legislation, lawmakers may file a variety of such notes highlighting certain concerns, such as a Fiscal Impact Note.

“Historically, government has made decisions that disproportionately have negative effects on minority communities,” Lightford said. “We will now have a tool that gives us a deeper understanding of what consequences could come with the implementation of a proposed law.”

Senate Bill 1485 also prohibits the racial discrimination or harassment of State employees and lobbyists. The legislation requires all General Assembly employees and lobbyists to complete a racial bias, discrimination and harassment training program annually.

“It is no secret that racial discrimination still exists in various forms throughout our society. Sadly, it still exists here in Springfield,” Lightford said. “This measure ensures all people working under the dome are extended protections against harassment for their race or ethnicity.”

The Illinois Department of Human Rights will also be required to establish a hotline for reporting racial discrimination and harassment.

The legislation was approved by the Senate on Friday and heads to the House for consideration.