If your Illinois employees go through a security screening before clocking in, walk from a parking lot to a time clock, or log into systems before their shift starts — you may have a compensable time problem. A new Illinois Supreme Court ruling makes that official.
On March 19, 2026, the Illinois Supreme Court ruled in Johnson v. Amazon Services that Illinois's Minimum Wage Law does not incorporate the federal Portal-to-Portal Act's exclusions for preliminary and postliminary activities. The practical effect: any time a non-exempt employee is required to be on your premises — before or after a shift — is compensable work time under Illinois law.
Note: This information is for informational purposes only and does not constitute formal tax, legal, or compliance advice. Always consult with qualified tax advisors, legal counsel, and your organization’s internal teams for guidance specific to your situation. Additional regulations may apply. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, refer to official government resources and regulatory agencies.