SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Bill Cunningham’s measure to ensure protected leave for employees whose newborns require intensive care after birth was signed into law.

“Parents shouldn’t have to choose between going to work and sitting in the NICU with their newborn,” said Cunningham, a Democrat who represents portions of Chicago and the Southwest Suburbs. “This legislation gives parents the flexibility they need during a serious medical emergency.”

Under Cunningham’s law, employees of mid-sized companies with 16-50 employees are eligible for up to 10 days of unpaid leave while their child is in a NICU, while those working for larger companies with 51 or more employees are eligible for up to 20 days. This leave is in addition to protections under the Family and Medical Leave Act and ensures continued health insurance coverage and job protection throughout the leave period.

Cunningham’s nephew was born prematurely and was placed in the NICU for months. Through this experience, he saw firsthand the tremendous burden on family members facing similar situations.

“No parent should be fired putting their kid’s health before their job,” said Cunningham. “This new law will ensure parents can focus on what matters most: the health and safety of their child.”

House Bill 2978 was signed into law on Friday and takes effect Jan. 1, 2026.