August 2014

By: Anthony J. Caruso, Esq.

On June 22, 2014, Illinois Governor Pat Quinn signed legislation (House Bill 3814) to have an advisory referendum by Illinois voters on November 4, 2014 on the “hot” political issue of minimum wage.

Be aware that an advisory referendum is not binding as a law; but rather, acts as a barometer to the State legislators if they should consider a change in the minimum wage without putting their political careers at risk. It is a test balloon.

THE QUESTION FOR THE VOTERS ON THE ADVISORY REFERENDUM:

“Shall the minimum wage in Illinois for adults over the age of 18 be raised to $10 per hour by January 1, 2015?”

It should be noted that the present Illinois minimum wage is $8.25 an hour. Predictably, this advisory referendum has been supported by various labor groups and human rights organizations.

I suspect that various employer organizations will campaign Illinois voters to vote “NO” for an increase in the Illinois minimum wage at the November 4, 2014 election.

We will keep you advised of any updates in changes of minimum wage by Federal or state law or city ordinances.

If you have any questions or concerns about this topic or any other questions related to employment, please call attorney Anthony J. Caruso of Wessels Sherman’s St. Charles, Illinois office at (630) 377-1554.