CHICAGO - A new law co-sponsored by State Senator Emil Jones III (D-Chicago) will remove a huge barrier that minorities and marginalized people face when obtaining state level employment. 

“Illinois is a very diverse state, and state agencies should reflect that diversity,” Jones said. “Panels that incorporate interviewers who share a similar background with the applicant will help ensure the best people are hired.”

Senate Bill 1765 requires every state agency to establish the goal of increasing diversity on interview panels in order to increase employment opportunities provided to women, members of minority groups, and people with disabilities. Increasing diversity will help address systematic racism within state hiring practices.

The legislation also requires state agencies to submit an annual report to the governor’s office and the General Assembly detailing their progress regarding increasing the diversity on interview panels.

The new law takes effect July 1, 2022.