SPRINGFIELD, IL (Chambana Today) — The Illinois Department of Labor (IDOL) has wrapped up a year of significant actions to protect workers’ rights and ensure fair compensation across the state. In 2025, IDOL successfully recovered approximately $2.7 million in unpaid wages and enforced critical labor laws, including the Paid Leave for All Workers Act, child labor protections, and minimum wage compliance.
Among the key enforcement highlights, IDOL reached a settlement with healthcare staffing company GrapeTree Medical, recovering over $100,000 for workers wrongfully charged “booking fees.” In another case, a manufacturing worker was awarded over $30,000 in unpaid wages after being laid off with no rehire or final pay.
IDOL also made strides with the Paid Leave for All Workers Act, holding employers accountable for providing paid leave benefits to part-time employees. Additionally, the department resolved multiple complaints involving violations of the Prevailing Wage Act, securing $166,000 in back pay for workers on public works projects.
The Department also highlighted the success of its Informal Resolution and Mediation Unit, which resolved over 830 wage claims, collecting $103,000 in unpaid wages. Other significant actions included tackling child labor violations, ensuring pay transparency in job postings, and addressing workplace safety concerns, such as unpermitted trampoline installations and unsafe working conditions for public workers.
“2025 has been a year of decisive action for workers in Illinois,” said IDOL Director Jane Flanagan. “We are committed to ensuring fair treatment and proper compensation for all workers across the state.”
For more information or to file a complaint, workers can contact IDOL at 312-793-2800 or visit the department’s website.
