Concerns for Illinois Businesses After Senate Bill 328
(The Center Square) – A prominent figure in the trucking industry predicts that an increasing number of businesses may exit Illinois following the enactment of Senate Bill 328.
Governor J.B. Pritzker announced on Friday the signing of 267 bills, including one that broadens Illinois’ jurisdiction regarding illness and injury claims.
Sponsored by Illinois Senate President Don Harmon, D-Oak Park, SB 328 received backing from the Illinois Trial Lawyers Association. From 2022 to 2025, Harmon received $75,000 in campaign funds from the ITLA’s political action committee.
In response to the new law’s enactment, sixteen business organizations issued a joint statement expressing their dissatisfaction. “We are disappointed that Gov. J.B. Pritzker did not take this opportunity to protect the citizens, business community, and economy of Illinois by vetoing SB 328. The failure to reject this proposal exposes businesses and taxpayers to predatory lawsuits that could overwhelm our legal system and hinder economic growth,” they stated.
The business groups warned that many may opt not to relocate to Illinois. “This legislation, pushed by trial lawyers in the closing hours of the legislative session, significantly broadens liability for out-of-state companies operating in Illinois. Under the new law, any business registered in Illinois is open to lawsuits regardless of any connection to the state,” the statement added.
Matthew Hart, executive director of the Illinois Trucking Association, emphasized that the law endangers businesses by making them vulnerable to lawsuits. He noted, “For industries like trucking, many companies operate in Illinois at some point, and now they are all at risk of facing frivolous lawsuits,” explaining that an increase in lawsuits under Illinois’ Biometric Information Privacy Act was already a concern.
Other organizations, including the Illinois Chamber of Commerce, the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association, and various retail and hospitality associations, have also expressed their discontent with SB 328. Illinois state Senator Craig Wilcox, R-Woodstock, commented that the bill would lead to increased costs, diminished job opportunities, and fewer chances for Illinois families.
