A new state law that takes effect Jan. 1 prohibits discrimination based on a person’s reproductive health decisions, including fertility care and abortion.
Public Act 103-0785 prohibits discrimination on the basis of reproductive health decisions in employment, housing, financial credit, and public accommodations. The law clarifies and extends existing protections in the Illinois Human Rights Act, ensuring Illinoisans have the right to engage in reproductive health decision-making without facing discrimination.
Reproductive health decisions include a broad continuum of personal decisions regarding assisted reproductive technologies, such as in-vitro fertilization, prenatal, intranatal, and postnatal care as well as abortion and birth control, fertility or sterilization care, and miscarriage management care. The protections apply across all areas of the Act, advancing the state’s leadership in protecting reproductive rights.
“This legislation is more than a law — it’s a declaration of human dignity,” said Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton. “We’re affirming that personal medical decisions belong to individuals, not employers or institutions. Illinois is not just protecting a right; we’re championing a fundamental principle of personal autonomy and bodily integrity.”
For questions regarding the Illinois Human Rights Act or IDHR’s rule and regulations, call (312) 814-6262 or complete the Contact IDHR online form.
