Ellman supports SB3465 to broaden sanitary protections for construction workers
Sen. Laura Ellman (D-21st) cast her vote in favor of SB3465, a measure designed to strengthen sanitary protections and facilities for construction workers, during the 104th General Assembly on May 31, 2026, according to the Illinois Senate. The bill advanced through the Senate in a 45-13 decision.
As outlined by the bill's official statement, it is described as: "CONSTRUCTION-SANITARY REQS."
The summary below draws from the actual bill content and may offer interpretive explanations for clarity regarding its components.
The legislation revises the state statute on construction site restrooms to encompass sanitary standards for menstruation and lactation and extends worker protections. It mandates a designated toilet for women and those who menstruate when 10 or more workers are present at a site, secure restroom access, sufficient time for restroom use, and complimentary menstrual products in specified locations. The bill obligates employers to make reasonable accommodations for lactating employees, such as providing lockable, private spaces, adequate break time, accessible water, and clean refrigeration for milk storage. It permits employees to request inspections, guards against retaliation, lets local health authorities levy fines for noncompliance, and becomes effective immediately.
The official action taken on SB3465 was 'House Floor Amendment No. 1 Senate Concurs'.
Ellman earned her BS from Grinnell College in 1987.
A member of the Democratic Party, Ellman was elected in 2019 to serve as the state senator for Illinois' 21st Senate District, succeeding Michael Connelly.
Legislation in Illinois moves through a multi-step process, starting with its introduction in the House or Senate, then advancing through committees, floor consideration, and full chamber votes before reaching the governor, who may sign or veto the bill. The General Assembly works on a biennial cycle, and while thousands of bills are introduced each term, only a small portion are enacted into law.