The new law adds sexual orientation to the classes of people protected by the state’s Human Rights Act. It defines sexual orientation as actual or perceived heterosexuality, homosexuality, bisexuality, or gender-related identity, whether or not traditionally associated with the person’s designated sex at birth. The definition specifically excludes a physical or sexual attraction to a minor by an adult. In deference to conservative objections, the Act states that it must not be construed as requiring any employer, employment agency, or labor organization to give preferential treatment or special rights based on sexual orientation or to implement affirmative action policies or programs based on sexual orientation.

As originally written, the state’s Human Rights Act guarantees freedom from unlawful discrimination on the basis of a variety of factors, including race, religion, sex, age, and a number of other characteristics, now including sexual orientation. It also provides protection from harassment in employment and against retaliation for filing a discrimination charge. It is enforced by the Illinois Department of Human Rights.

Now, with Blagojevich’s signature, Illinois became the 15th state in the nation to extend its human rights law to offer equal protection for its gay and lesbian citizens. Chicago, Cook County, Normal, Bloomington, DeKalb, and over a dozen other Illinois localities already bar discrimination based on sexual orientation.

The new law will take effect on January 1, 2006.