Senate Bill 3465 set to be discussed in the Illinois House this week would require the state’s construction companies to provide female employees with separate restroom facilities and to stock these facilities with menstrual products, The Center Square reported. The law would apply to construction companies with 10 or more employees, including women, on a site active for more than five days.

Although the bill was still being amended last week following negotiations with business interests, some remain opposed to the initiative for various reasons. The House Labor and Commerce Committee has recommended the bill move forward, as lawmakers face a Friday deadline for Senate bills to clear the chamber, Chicago Construction News reported.

The bill requires that the primary employer on a construction site must offer separate restroom facilities, stock menstrual products, and, upon request, provide a private space for nursing employees to lactate. If the proposed bill passes, employers would be responsible for providing menstrual products and would be required to supply either refrigeration or a cooler for breast milk upon request.

If the bill passes, the law will take effect Jan. 1, 2027. Any owner who fails or refuses to comply with the provisions of the act commits a petty offense and is subject to a fine to be determined by the certified local public health agency, the bill states.

International Code Council’s (ICC) annual Building Safety Month, commemorated in May, has helped people understand the impact that building codes have on their daily lives for 46 years. The mission has become even more important as communities face challenges like extreme weather events, aging infrastructure, and evolving construction technologies. 

This year’s theme, “Built to Last,” highlights how modern building codes, safety professionals, and resilient construction practices protect homes and communities around the world. 

“With increased extreme weather events and constantly evolving community needs, building resilience and accessibility are more important than ever,” said Mike Boso, president, ICC Board of Directors. “When we come together to learn about and advocate for building safety, we can help ensure that our communities are better prepared for the challenges of tomorrow.” 

To celebrate Building Safety Month: 

• Visit the Building Safety Month website. 

• Issue a proclamation declaring May 2026 as Building Safety Month. View the proclamations here and submit one here. 

• Help spread the word on social media.  Use #BuildingSafety365 and #BuildingSafetyMonth2026 in your posts.  

• Download the promotional toolkit. 

• Discover resources for planning Building Safety Month events. 

Later this week, on May 22, ICC will celebrate International Building Safety Day.