Economic equity legislation passed by lawmakers

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WJPF) — In the final hours of the 101st General Assembly, Illinois lawmakers have passed a package of bills, that supports say, will reduce economic disparities in minority communities.

The legislation caps the interest rate at 36% for payday and vehicle title loans. It also requires more diversity in awarding state contracts.

Rep. Sonya Harper (D-Chicago)

State Representative Sonya Harper (D-Chicago) says passing the legislation also means employers will no longer be allowed to turn someone down for a job or deny them a promotion based solely on their criminal record.

“55% of people in Illinois have a criminal record and people with criminal legal system involvement are half as likely to receive offers of employment, or interviews, than individuals who don’t have a record.”

Other components of the legislation address the wage gap for black women and housing for those with a criminal record.

The measure now heads to Governor JB Pritzker’s desk.

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