Villa supports SB3465 to broaden restroom, lactation access for construction workers

Sen. Karina Villa (D-25th) cast a Yes vote for SB3465, which seeks to expand restroom and lactation facilities for construction workers, during the 104th General Assembly on May 31, 2026. The bill was passed by the Illinois Senate in a 45-13 vote, according to the Illinois Senate.

As described in its official summary, the initiative focuses on "CONSTRUCTION-SANITARY REQS."

This article presents an explanation based on the text of the bill, along with interpretations designed to clarify the measure’s key provisions.

Essentially, the legislation updates the state law covering construction site restroom requirements to address sanitary needs for menstruation and lactation and adds new protections for workers. It requires a dedicated toilet for women and others who menstruate at worksites with at least 10 workers, mandates secure and accessible bathroom facilities, ensures sufficient break time, and calls for free menstrual products at designated locations. Employers are obligated to make reasonable accommodations for lactating employees by providing private lockable rooms, schedule flexibility for pumping, access to water nearby, and clean refrigeration. The law permits workers to request workplace inspections, forbids employer retaliation, allows local health departments to set penalties for violations, and is effective immediately.

The legislative record for SB3465 indicates 'House Floor Amendment No. 1 Senate Concurs.'

Villa, a Democrat, began representing Illinois’ 25th Senate District in 2021, succeeding Jim Oberweis.

In Illinois, all bills progress through a step-by-step legislative process starting in the House or Senate, then advancing through committee hearings, debate, floor votes in both chambers, and finishing with action from the governor. The General Assembly meets on a biennial cycle; while thousands of bills are typically introduced per session, only a select number complete this process and become law.