SPRINGFIELD – During the week of March 23, the Schaumburg-based Technology & Manufacturing Association asked its members to voice their opinions on a proposed measure that would create a new state-run insurance program funded by Illinois business owners.
What HB 3483 would do
The measure, HB 3483, sponsored by Elgin’s State Rep. Anna Moeller, would create a paid family and medical leave program that would be run by the state’s Department of Labor.
HB 3483 would require employers to give their employees up to 18 weeks of paid medical leave and up to 27 wks of paid leave for pregnancy-related conditions.
The Paid Family and Medical Leave Insurance Program would cover not only an employee’s own health needs but would also allow for an employee’s time off caring for family members.
The Program’s premiums would be estimated to be 1.25% of an employee’s salary, with those employers paying 60 percent of the cost.
How TMA helped stall HB 3483
TMA notified its members of the proposed Program, the costs and burden such a program could become to those with tight budgets, and TMA members responded by filing witness slips online.
Nearly 90 opponents signed witness slips, while 66 proponents expressed their support for HB 3483.
As a result, TMA lobbyist David Curtin said Monday (March 30), the bill has been sent back to the House Rules Committee, where it is likely to remain for this legislative session.
“Thank you for filling out witness slips opposing The Paid Family and Medical Leave Act, HB 3483,” Curtin said. There were 89 opponents, most of whom were TMA members! This impressed the House Labor and Commerce panel which coincidentally decided not to call the bill for a hearing. In a baseball game, that’s the equivalent of sending the pitcher to the locker room!”
What lies ahead in 2026
The 2026 Illinois General Assembly will be meeting at least until May 31, 2026. The TMA Advocacy Team appreciates all TMA members’ involvement and effort in responding to witness slip requests while they are in session.