In June 2025, Rhode Island became the first state to pass a law requiring workplace protections for employees experiencing menopause.
Now, two more jurisdictions – Illinois and Philadelphia – are following Rhode Island’s lead with laws that expand protections for workers dealing with menopause-related symptoms. Both measures take effect on Jan. 1, 2027.
On Aug. 7, 2026, Gov. JB Pritzker signed the Illinois Menopause Equity and Care Act.
The new legislation amends the Illinois Human Rights Act to prohibit discrimination and harassment based on menopause-related conditions – defined as perimenopause, menopause and associated medical or symptomatic conditions. The conditions can include vasomotor symptoms, sleep disruption, cognitive or mood changes and osteoporosis-related changes.
It will require employers with four or more employees to provide reasonable accommodations for employees and applicants affected by menopause and related conditions. Reasonable accommodations may include flexible scheduling, modified work hours, temperature- or climate-adjusted workplaces, private spaces for rest or symptom management and remote or light-duty arrangements.
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