Temp worker advocates hail Illinois law that promises equal pay

Silva Luna speaks about the unfair working conditions as a temp worker during a press conference at the Casa Michoacan at 1638 S. Blue Island Ave in Pilsen, Tuesday, Oct. 3, 2023. The Temp Worker Fairness and Safety Act gives temp workers new protection and right to equal pay. (Anthony Vazquez/Sun-Times)

Temporary workers in Illinois have new protections — and the right to equal pay — thanks to a new state law passed in August.

The Temp Worker Fairness and Safety Act aims to prevent “permatemping,” where an employer keeps a temp worker indefinitely, by requiring employers pay temps similar wages as direct hires after 90 days on the job.