Illinois Strengthens Worker Protections Under Amended “One Day Rest In Seven Act”

Kehoe Law Firm, P.C. is informing employees in Illinois of their strengthened protections under the recently amended the One Day Rest In Seven Act (“ODRISA”). Effective through the addition of Section 5.5, the amendment makes it unlawful for employers to retaliate against workers for exercising their rights under the Act.

The new anti-retaliation provision, codified at 820 ILCS 140/5.5 and effective as of March 21, 2025, expands employee protections and ensures accountability for employers who attempt to punish workers for asserting their rights.

What Protections Does ODRISA Provide to Employees? 

ODRISA requires employers to provide employees in Illinois a minimum of 24 hours of rest within every consecutive 7-day period.

Under ODRISA, employees must also be given a meal period of at least 20 minutes for every 7.5-hour shift beginning no later than 5 hours after the start of the shift, with an additional 20-minute meal period if working a 12-hour shift or longer. Reasonable restroom breaks must also be provided.

NOTE: The day off and meal breaks do not apply to employees whose meal periods and days off are governed by collective bargaining agreements. If a collective bargaining agreement does not specify meal breaks or a day off, the provisions of ODRISA apply.

Key Protections Under New Section 5.5

Under the amended law, employers, their agents or officers are prohibited from taking adverse action or discriminating against any employee who:

  • Exercises a right under the Act.

  • Files a complaint with their employer or the Illinois Department of Labor (“IDOL”).

  • Initiates or intends to initiate any proceeding related to the Act.

  • Provides testimony or plans to testify in an investigation or proceeding under the Act.

What This Means for Illinois Workers

This amendment gives Illinois employees greater confidence to report violations of their rest or meal break rights without fear of losing their jobs or suffering other retaliatory actions.

Enforcement and Penalties

Employees who believe they have been unlawfully retaliated against in violation of Section 5.5 are entitled to recover “all legal and equitable relief as may be appropriate” by filing a complaint with the IDOL.

Conclusion

The amendment to Illinois’ ODRISA is a critical step toward protecting workers and promoting healthy, lawful work environments. Employees now have clearer legal backing when standing up for their rights to rest and meal periods — and employers now have a much stronger incentive to follow the law.

Concerned About Your Rights as an Employee?

If you have general questions about your workplace rights or believe those rights may have been violated, it’s important to seek legal guidance as soon as possible.

To discuss your situation, please send us a message or contact Michael Yarnoff, Esq., (215) 792-6676, Ext. 804, [email protected], [email protected], for a free, no-obligation evaluation of potential legal claims.

About Kehoe Law Firm, P.C.

Kehoe Law Firm, P.C. is a nationally recognized, plaintiff-side class action law firm dedicated to protecting investors and consumers from fraud and misconduct. Our attorneys have served as Lead or Co-Lead Counsel in major securities cases, recovering over $10 billion for institutional and individual investors.

Our firm litigates securities fraud, fiduciary breaches, unfair mergers and acquisitions, and antitrust violations, while also representing whistleblowers and advocating for victims of data breaches, consumer fraud, vehicle and product defects, employment law violations, retirement plan mismanagement, and other corporate and business misconduct. With a results-driven approach, we pursue justice and substantial recoveries for those we represent.

Kehoe Law Firm’s class action legal services are provided on a contingency-fee basis, meaning clients are not responsible for any fees or litigation expenses. 

 

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Stay Informed About Data Breaches & Cyber Incidents

Kehoe Law Firm, P.C. is sharing important information with consumers about certain reported data breaches and cyber incidents that may have exposed sensitive personal information. This information may include financial account or credit card details, medical and health insurance records, email and login credentials, Social Security numbers, and driver’s license or state ID numbers.

Below is a regularly updated, alphabetical list of reported data breaches and cyber incidents, each with links to additional details to help you stay informed.* If you’ve received a data breach notification, or suspect your personal information may have been compromised, it’s crucial to take protective steps, such as monitoring your accounts, placing fraud alerts or credit freezes, and understanding your potential legal rights.

*The number of individuals affected by a data breach is indicated when known.

Have You Received a Data Breach Notification?

If you’ve received a data breach notification and have concerns about the incident—or if you’ve experienced fraud, identity theft, or other related issues—we’re here to help you understand your rights and evaluate your legal options.

For a free, no-obligation consultation about potential claims, please contact us by sending a message or reaching out to Michael Yarnoff, Esq., at (215) 792-6676, Ext. 804, [email protected], [email protected].

About Kehoe Law Firm, P.C.

Kehoe Law Firm, P.C. is a nationally recognized, plaintiff-side class action firm dedicated to protecting investors and consumers from fraud and misconduct. Our attorneys have served as Lead or Co-Lead Counsel in major securities cases, recovering over $10 billion for institutional and individual investors.

Our firm litigates securities fraud, fiduciary breaches, unfair mergers and acquisitions, and antitrust violations, while also representing whistleblowers and advocating for victims of data breaches, consumer fraud, vehicle and product defects, employment law violations, retirement plan mismanagement, and other corporate and business misconduct. With a results-driven approach, we pursue justice and substantial recoveries for those we represent.

Kehoe Law Firm’s class action legal services are provided on a contingency-fee basis, meaning clients are not responsible for any fees or litigation expenses.


     

     

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    Salaried Employees and Overtime Pay

    Are salaried employees exempt from overtime pay? //

    If you’re a salaried employee, you might assume you don’t qualify for overtime pay—but that’s not always true.

    While the federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) sets the baseline for overtime exemption, some states have stricter rules, with higher salary thresholds that impact whether you should be earning overtime pay.

    Federal Overtime Exemption Requirements

    Under the FLSA, executive, administrative, and professional employees must be paid a minimum salary of $684 per week ($35,568 annually) and meet certain requirements of the FLSA’s job duties test to be exempt from minimum wage and overtime requirements.

    Under the FLSA, there are minimum wage and overtime exemptions for certain professional employees, as well as for highly-compensated employees earning at least $107,432 per year and individuals in computer-related occupations.

    Six States Have Higher Minimum Salary Thresholds for Overtime Exemption

    If you live in certain states, the salary threshold for overtime exemption is higher than the federal salary threshold of $684/week or $35,568 per year—meaning you could be entitled to overtime pay even if your employer says otherwise.

    If you meet certain job duties tests and earn less than the minimum salary threshold amounts in the following states, you may be entitled to overtime for hours worked beyond 40 per week:*

    State Weekly Salary ($) Annual Salary ($)
    Alaska $952.80 $49,545.60
    Alaska (As of July 1, 2025) $1,040.00 $54,080
    California $1,320.00 $68,640.00
    Colorado $1,086.25 $56,485.00
    Maine $845.21 $43,950.92
    New York (NYC, Nassau, Suffolk, Westchester Counties) $1,237.50 $64,350.00
    New York (other areas) $1,161.65 $60,405.80
    Washington (> 50 employees) $1,499.40 $77,968.80
    Washington (< 50 employees) $1,332.80 $69,306.56

    *In certain states, computer professionals have different overtime exemption levels.

    What Can Salaried Employees Do if They Have Been Wrongfully Denied Overtime?

    If your employer has not paid you overtime and you earn less than the federal or your state’s salary threshold for overtime exemption, you may have a right to unpaid wages. Employers cannot use the federal salary level as an excuse if state law requires a higher threshold.

    If you have not received the wages or overtime pay you are entitled to, acting quickly is essential. Federal and state law wage and overtime claims are subject to strict deadlines, known as statutes of limitations. Missing these deadlines could mean losing your right to recover unpaid earnings.

    Under the FLSA, for example, most claims for unpaid wages—including minimum wage and overtime violations—must be filed within two years of the violation. If the employer’s violation was willful, the deadline could extend to three years. The longer you wait, the more of your unpaid wages may become unrecoverable. Understanding your rights and legal time limits ensures you do not miss the chance to claim what you are owed.

    If you believe you have a claim for unpaid wages, consider seeking legal guidance as soon as possible. To discuss your rights, send us a message or contact Michael Yarnoff, Esq., (215) 792-6676, Ext. 804, [email protected], [email protected], for a free, no-obligation evaluation of potential legal claims.

    About Kehoe Law Firm, P.C.

    Kehoe Law Firm, P.C. is a nationally recognized, plaintiff-side class action law firm dedicated to protecting investors and consumers from fraud and misconduct. Our attorneys have served as Lead or Co-Lead Counsel in major securities cases, recovering over $10 billion for institutional and individual investors.

    Our firm litigates securities fraud, fiduciary breaches, unfair mergers and acquisitions, and antitrust violations, while also representing whistleblowers and advocating for victims of data breaches, consumer fraud, vehicle and product defects, employment law violations, retirement plan mismanagement, and other corporate and business misconduct. With a results-driven approach, we pursue justice and substantial recoveries for those we represent.

    Kehoe Law Firm’s class action legal services are provided on a contingency-fee basis, meaning clients are not responsible for any fees or litigation expenses. 

     

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    Contact Us

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    Kehoe Law Firm, P.C.
    2001 Market Street
    Suite 2500
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    Tel: 215-792-6676

    EMAIL

    [email protected]

    Smith & Wesson Privacy Class Action Alleges User Data Shared Despite Cookie Rejection

    Smith & Wesson Allegedly Violated its Website User Privacy Policy //

    On April 4, 2025, a class action lawsuit was filed against Smith & Wesson Inc. in United States District Court, Northern District of California (Case No. 5:25-cv-03085), alleging an “egregious privacy violation and total breach of consumer trust in violation of California law.”

    According to the complaint, Smith & Wesson violated its own written website Privacy Policy, which assured users that they could opt out of accepting cookies by selecting the “Reject All” option on the cookie consent banner. ​ The Privacy Policy stated that users could decline cookies and tracking technologies, and that an “Opt-out Cookie” would be placed on their devices to honor this choice.

    Despite these assurances, however, Smith & Wesson allegedly caused third-party cookies and software code to be stored on consumers’ devices and transmitted user data (“private communications”) to third parties, even after users clicked the “Reject All” option in the cookie consent banner.

    According to the complaint:

    Defendant’s [w]ebsite offers consumers a choice to browse without being tracked, followed, and targeted by third party data brokers and advertisers. However, Defendant’s promises are outright lies, designed to lull users into a false sense of security. Even after users elect to ‘Reject All’ cookies, Defendant surreptitiously enables several third parties – including Google LLC (YouTube, DoubleClick and Google Analytics), X Corp. (formerly Twitter), Listrak, Inc. and Lightbox . . . to place and/or transmit cookies that track users’ website browsing activities and eavesdrop on users’ private communications on the [w]ebsite. (Italics and bold added.)

    Summary of Smith & Wesson’s Website Privacy Policy 

    Smith & Wesson’s Website Privacy Policy made the following representations to users, according to the complaint:

    Option to Opt Out of Cookies: Users were assured that they could opt out of accepting cookies altogether by either selecting the “I do not accept Cookies” option on the cookie consent banner upon their initial visit to the website or setting their browser to not accept cookies or to notify them when a cookie is sent, giving them the chance to decide whether to accept it. ​

    Placement of an Opt-Out Cookie: The Privacy Policy stated that if users chose to opt out, an “Opt-out Cookie” would be placed on their computer. ​ This cookie would be browser- and device-specific and would last until cookies were cleared from the browser or device. ​

    Respect for User Choices: The Privacy Policy represented to users that their choices to reject cookies would be honored, even if certain Smith & Wesson website functions might not work properly as a result.

    According to the complaint:

    In truth, [the] Defendant did not abide by its users’ wishes despite its promises that it would honor their request to reject cookies. When users clicked the ‘Reject All’ cookies button, they provided notice to Defendant that they did not consent to the placement or transmission of third-party cookies that would allow those parties to obtain their [p]rivate [c]ommunications with the [w]ebsite. Nevertheless, [the] Defendant caused the [t]hird [p]arty tracking cookies to be placed on [w]ebsite users’ browsers and devices and/or transmitted to the [t]hird [p]arties along with user data—even for those users who elected to reject all cookies. (Italics and bold added.)

    The privacy caction against Smith & Wesson, among other things, seeks compensatory and punitive damages, as well as full restitution and disgorgement by Defendant Smith & Wesson of wrongfully obtained revenues and profits.

    Smith & Wesson Website Users May Have Legal Claims

    Smith & Wesson’s website users who have questions about the class action lawsuit or would like to discuss potential legal claims can send us a message or contact Michael Yarnoff, Esq., (215) 792-6676, Ext. 804, [email protected], [email protected].

    About Kehoe Law Firm, P.C.

    Kehoe Law Firm, P.C. is a nationally recognized, plaintiff-side class action firm dedicated to protecting investors and consumers from fraud and misconduct. Our attorneys have served as Lead or Co-Lead Counsel in major securities cases, recovering over $10 billion for institutional and individual investors.

    Our firm litigates securities fraud, fiduciary breaches, unfair mergers and acquisitions, and antitrust violations, while also representing whistleblowers and advocating for victims of data breaches, consumer fraud, vehicle and product defects, employment law violations, retirement plan mismanagement, and other corporate and business misconduct. With a results-driven approach, we pursue justice and substantial recoveries for those we represent.

    Kehoe Law Firm’s class action legal services are provided on a contingency-fee basis, meaning clients are not responsible for any fees or litigation expenses.

     

    SEND US A MESSAGE

    Contact Us

    ADDRESS

    Kehoe Law Firm, P.C.
    2001 Market Street
    Suite 2500
    Philadelphia, PA 19103

    PHONE

    Tel: 215-792-6676

    EMAIL

    [email protected]

    Honda Auto Idle Stop Investigation Expands

    NHTSA’s ODI Expands Honda Auto Idle Stop Investigation //

    Kehoe Law Firm, P.C. is informing consumers that on June 3, 2022, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) initiated Preliminary Evaluation PE22005, which began after ODI received Vehicle Owner Questionnaires (VOQs) and field reports concerning the Auto Idle Stop (“AIS”) feature in 2016-2019 Honda Pilot vehicles.

    Complainants reported that the engine fails to restart automatically after coming to a complete stop at a traffic light or road intersection when the AIS function was engaged. The affected vehicles are equipped with a 3.5L engine and a 9-speed automatic transmission.

    On January 6, 2023, Honda released service bulletins 23-008 and 23-009 to address the AIS restart failures in multiple vehicle models, including:

    • 2016-2019 Honda Pilot
    • 2015-2020 Acura TLX
    • 2016-2020 Acura MDX
    • 2019-2022 Honda Passport
    • 2020-2023 Honda Ridgeline 

    Honda’s Two-Stage Repair Countermeasure

    The service bulletins outlined a two-stage countermeasure consisting of a Programmed Fuel Injection (“PGM-FI”) software update, and if the software update did not fix the issue, component replacement, which, depending on the model and year, may have included a starter assembly, starter relays, and a valve adjustment.

    Honda also extended the warranty coverage to 10 years with unlimited mileage for vehicles requiring the second stage component replacement.

    ODI Expands Honda Auto Idle Stop Investigation 

    Despite Honda’s countermeasures, ODI reported that it has continued to receive complaints regarding the AIS failure to restart issue, with many complainants alleging Honda’s countermeasures had been completed.

    To further evaluate the potential safety defect and the effectiveness of Honda’s service campaign, ODI expanded the Honda Auto Idle Stop investigation, classified as Engineering Analysis EA25004.

    The scope of the investigation now includes all vehicles in Honda’s service bulletins 23-008 and 23-009 and newer model years:

    • Acura MDX 2016-2025
    • Acura TLX 2015-2025
    • Honda Odyssey 2018-2025
    • Honda Passport 2019-2025
    • Honda Pilot 2016-2025
    • Honda Ridgeline 2020-2025

    For additional informaiton, click NHTSA Action Number EA25004. 

    Questions About A Vehicle Defect or Recall?

    Vehicle owners and lessess affected by automotive defects or safety recalls are encouraged to contact Kehoe Law Firm, P.C. by sending us a message below or contacting Michael Yarnoff, Esq., (215) 792-6676, Ext. 804, [email protected], [email protected], for a free, no-obligation evaluation of potential legal claims.

    About Kehoe Law Firm, P.C. 

    Kehoe Law Firm, P.C is a nationally recognized, plaintiff-side class action firm dedicated to protecting investors and consumers from fraud and misconduct. Our attorneys have served as Lead or Co-Lead Counsel in major securities cases, recovering over $10 billion for institutional and individual investors.

    Our firm litigates securities fraud, fiduciary breaches, unfair mergers and acquisitions, and antitrust violations, while also representing whistleblowers and advocating for victims of data breaches, consumer fraud, vehicle and product defects, employment law violations, retirement plan mismanagement, and other corporate and business misconduct. With a results-driven approach, we pursue justice and substantial recoveries for those we represent.

    Kehoe Law Firm’s class action legal services are on a contingency-fee basis, meaning clients are not responsible for any fees or litigation expenses.

    SEND US A MESSAGE

    Contact Us

    ADDRESS

    Kehoe Law Firm, P.C.
    2001 Market Street
    Suite 2500
    Philadelphia, PA 19103

    PHONE

    Tel: 215-792-6676

    EMAIL

    [email protected]

    “SEC Whistleblower Reform Act of 2025” Intends to Strengthen the SEC Whistleblower Program

    Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) and Senate Banking Committee Ranking Member Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) have reintroduced legislation known as the SEC Whistleblower Reform Act of 2025, a bipartisan bill aimed at bolstering protections for whistleblowers who report securities violations.

    The legislation seeks to shield whistleblowers from retaliation, ensure timely processing of claims, and prevent the waiver of whistleblower rights through pre-dispute arbitration agreements.

    “Patriotic whistleblowers root out waste, fraud and abuse taking place in the shadows, and we should thank them for recovering billions of valuable taxpayer dollars. I’m proud to reintroduce this legislation to increase government accountability by safeguarding the SEC’s Whistleblower Program,” Senator Grassley said.

    Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), another cosponsor, stressed the importance of protecting public servants: “Now more than ever, it’s critical that we protect the brave public servants willing to do what’s right and expose wrongdoing. There is bipartisan agreement that we must strengthen whistleblower protections to ensure they don’t face retaliation for the risks they take.”

    Key Provisions of the SEC Whistleblower Reform Act of 2025

    The proposed legislation includes several critical measures to strengthen whistleblower protections:

    • Protection Against Retaliation: Whistleblowers who report violations to their direct superiors would be protected from retaliation. Currently, they are only protected if they report directly to the SEC or certain officials.

    • Timely Claims Processing: The bill ensures that claims and awards are processed in a timely manner, addressing previous years-long backlogs.

    • Preservation of Rights: Whistleblowers would be protected from waiving their rights through pre-dispute arbitration agreements.

    SEC Whistleblower Program’s Impact

    Since its inception under the Dodd-Frank Act in 2010, the SEC Whistleblower Program has proven highly effective, recovering over $6.3 billion in sanctions and returning billions to investors and taxpayers.

    In Fiscal Year 2024, the SEC awarded over $255 million to whistleblowers and received over 24,000 whistleblower tips.

    Bipartisan Support for the SEC Whistleblower Reform Act of 2025

    The SEC Whistleblower Reform Act of 2025, reintroduced with bipartisan support, aims to enhance accountability, protect whistleblowers from retaliation, and expedite claims processing, ensuring the SEC’s Whistleblower Program continues to safeguard investors and promote corporate transparency.

    How to Report Securities Fraud to the SEC

    To report fraud under the SEC Whistleblower Program:

    • Gather Evidence – Collect documents, emails, or records supporting your claim. The SEC values high-quality, original information.
    • Submit a Tip – Use the SEC’s Tips, Complaints and Referrals Portal or Form TCR (Tip, Complaint, or Referral). A properly submitted Form TCR is required for a whistleblower award.
    • Work with an Attorney – An experienced whistleblower attorney can guide you and protect your rights. Whistleblowers wishing to remain anonymous must be represented by an attorney.
    • Stay Updated – The SEC may contact you for additional information or updates on your case. Continued cooperation may maximize award chances.

    Determining Whistleblower Awards

    The SEC determines award percentages based on several factors:

    Factors That May Increase an Award:

    • Significance of Information – More valuable information leads to higher awards.
    • Assistance Provided – Helping SEC staff decipher transactions or provide key evidence can increase awards.
    • Law Enforcement Interest – Reports of ongoing violations harming investors may receive priority.
    • Internal Compliance Participation – While not required, internal reporting can increase award percentages.

    Factors That May Decrease an Award:

    • Unreasonable Reporting Delay – Waiting too long to report a violation may reduce the award.
    • Culpability – Whistleblowers involved in misconduct may receive reduced payouts.
    • Interference with Internal Reporting Systems – Undermining internal compliance may lower an award.

    Maximum Whistleblower Award Presumption

    Under the 2020 Whistleblower Rule Amendments, whistleblowers are presumed eligible for the maximum 30% award if:

    • The total award does not exceed $5 million.
    • The claimant has no negative factors (e.g., culpability or delay).
    • The claim does not involve whistleblowers engaged in misconduct.

    In FY 2024, the SEC applied this presumption in 90% of cases where the maximum award was $5 million or less.

    Why Report Securities Violations?

    By participating in the SEC Whistleblower Program, individuals help combat fraud, hold violators accountable, and protect investors. With over $2.2 billion awarded to 444 whistleblowers since 2011, the program plays a critical role in exposing wrongdoing.

    If you have information about securities fraud, consider consulting a legal professional before submitting a tip.

    Learn more about the SEC Whistleblower Program by visiting the SEC’s official Whistleblower FAQ page.

    Do You Have Questions or Concerns About Whistleblower Reporting of Securities Fraud to the SEC?

    Making the decision to come forward as a whistleblower and report securities fraud to the SEC can be challenging. At Kehoe Law Firm, P.C., our legal team understands the complexities involved and has extensive experience investigating fraud, prosecuting wrongdoing, and working with individuals who bravely expose securities violations.

    If you have questions about voluntarily providing information to the SEC as a whistleblower—whether regarding eligibility for a whistleblower award, the reporting process, or the required submission format—please send us a message to be contacted by an attorney for a free, no-obligation evaluation of potential whistleblower claims.

    To speak directly with an attorney, please contact either Michael Yarnoff, Esq., [email protected], [email protected], (215) 792-6676, Ext. 804, or John Kehoe, Esq., [email protected], [email protected], (215) 792-6676, Ext. 801.

    About Kehoe Law Firm, P.C.

    Kehoe Law Firm, P.C. is a nationally recognized, plaintiff-side class action firm dedicated to protecting investors and consumers from fraud and misconduct. Our attorneys have served as Lead or Co-Lead Counsel in major securities cases, recovering over $10 billion for institutional and individual investors.

    Our firm litigates securities fraud, fiduciary breaches, unfair mergers and acquisitions, and antitrust violations, while also representing whistleblowers and advocating for victims of data breaches, consumer fraud, vehicle and product defects, employment law violations, retirement plan mismanagement, and other corporate and business misconduct. With a results-driven approach, we pursue justice and substantial recoveries for those we represent.

    Kehoe Law Firm’s class action legal services are provided on a contingency-fee basis, meaning clients are not responsible for any fees or litigation expenses.

      SEND US A MESSAGE

      Contact Us

      ADDRESS

      Kehoe Law Firm, P.C.
      2001 Market Street
      Suite 2500
      Philadelphia, PA 19103

      PHONE

      Tel: 215-792-6676

      EMAIL

      [email protected]