Since January 1, 2026, Illinois employees who are dealing with domestic violence, sexual violence or stalking can use their work computer, tablet or phone to record and save evidence without being disciplined for it.
The change is Public Act 104-0171, an update to the Illinois Victims’ Economic Security and Safety Act (VESSA). The Illinois Department of Labor says Illinois may be the first state to tie these protections directly to employer technology.
What the law says
- Employees can use employer-provided devices to record or preserve evidence of violence against themselves or a family member
- Employers cannot discipline or retaliate against them for it
- Employees must be given access to any photos, recordings or files they saved on those devices
- Existing VESSA rights, including job-protected leave and reasonable workplace accommodations, stay in place
What it means for Chicago employers
When an employee is being stalked or threatened, the danger often follows them to work. A partner shows up in the parking lot, calls the front desk or waits outside at closing time.
- Update your device and discipline policies so they match the new law
- Train supervisors and HR on what employees are allowed to do
- Have a safety plan for the workplace: who knows, who to call, and how the employee gets to their car safely
- Know your options if a threat comes to your building. In Illinois, employers can ask a court for a workplace protection restraining order under the Workplace Violence Prevention Act (820 ILCS 275)
How Valle can help
Valle Services provides confidential, low-profile security for Chicagoland workplaces dealing with a threat against an employee: officers at the entrance or front desk, parking lot coverage, and escorts to and from the car. For individuals, our spousal protection team helps with order of protection enforcement and safe escorts. When a threat comes from inside the company, see our high-risk employee termination security.
Is an employee being threatened? Contact Valle Services or call 630-212-8938 for a free, confidential assessment, 24/7.
Sources
- Capitol City Now: New Illinois law protects workers who document violence using work devices
- Illinois Workplace Violence Prevention Act (820 ILCS 275)
- StateScoop: Illinois law protects employees who use work devices to document violent crimes
This article is general information, not legal advice. Talk to an Illinois employment attorney about your situation.
