Rep. Sanalitro opposes SB3777, which aims to broaden anti-discrimination protections in Illinois

Rep. Jennifer Sanalitro (R-48th) cast a no vote on SB3777, which seeks to bolster anti-discrimination protections under the Illinois Human Rights Act, during the 104th General Assembly held on May 31, 2026. The Illinois House passed the measure by a vote of 72-38.

The official summary refers to the legislation as: "HUMAN RIGHTS-DISPARTE IMPACT."

Below is an overview based on the bill’s language, intended to clarify its main points through brief explanation and interpretation.

Fundamentally, the bill—titled the Civil Rights Safeguard Act—proposes amendments to the Illinois Human Rights Act to interpret its terms broadly and its exemptions narrowly to discourage discrimination. It adds to the definition of “unlawful discrimination” by including both intentional acts and those with the effect of discriminating based on actual or perceived protected traits. The measure defines “criteria or methods” and makes it a civil rights infraction in employment, lending, credit, and public accommodations to apply policies or practices resulting in a discriminatory impact, unless such actions serve a substantial, legitimate, and nondiscriminatory purpose and there is no less discriminatory alternative.

The official record for SB3777 indicates 'Third Reading - Short Debate - Passed.'

Sanalitro, a Republican, began serving the Illinois 48th House District in 2023, succeeding former state representative Terra Costa Howard.

In Illinois, legislative proposals follow a multi-step process that includes introduction, committee review, floor debate, and votes in both chambers, after which they are forwarded to the governor for final approval or veto. The General Assembly convenes biennially, and while many bills are introduced each session, only a comparatively small number proceed through all steps to become law.