The WMOK News Check
is Brought to you by:
WMOK News: The New Illinois Laws – Part 15 – Safety Over Policy: New VESSA Law Protects Employees Using Work Devices for Crisis
In a powerful affirmation of victim security, a key amendment to the Victims’ Economic Security and Safety Act (VESSA), known as HB 1278, takes effect on January 1, 2026. This law ensures that employees who are victims of violence, or whose family members are victims, can use company-issued electronics to seek help or gather critical evidence without fear of losing their job.
The new law recognizes a harsh reality: a victim may only have immediate access to a work phone or laptop when facing a crisis. This amendment ensures that standard workplace policies against personal use do not put a person’s safety—or their employment—at risk.
Key Requirements of the VESSA Device Use Amendment
This legislation provides three primary, non-negotiable protections for employees across all companies in Illinois (VESSA applies to every employer, regardless of size):
1. Protection Against Retaliation
The law expressly prohibits an employer from failing to hire, refusing to hire, discharging, harassing, or otherwise retaliating against an employee simply because that employee used an employer-issued device (like a work phone, tablet, or computer) to:
-
Record acts of domestic violence, sexual violence, gender violence, or any other crime of violence.
-
Communicate about the crime with family, authorities, or support organizations.
2. Right to Keep the Device and Data
An employer cannot take away or block an employee’s access to their work-issued equipment solely because the employee used or attempted to use it to document a violent incident. Furthermore:
-
The employer must grant the employee access to any photographs, voice or video recordings, or digital documents stored on the device that relate to the violence. This ensures the employee can secure the evidence without interruption.
3. Broad Definition of Violence and Victim
These protections cover incidents of violence committed against the employee themselves, or against a family or household member. The covered incidents include:
-
Domestic Violence
-
Sexual Violence
-
Gender Violence
-
Any other crime of violence
Employer Caveats
While these rights are broad, the law does maintain a balance: employees are still expected to comply with reasonable company policies and perform their essential job duties. The law also permits an employer to comply with any valid legal investigation, court order, or subpoena regarding the device or its data.
The Massac County Christmas Light Trail
The centerpiece of our holiday celebrations this month is the Massac County Christmas Light Trail!
What it is: This is a county-wide celebration where local residents and businesses light up their homes and storefronts for all to enjoy. It’s a wonderful way to experience the festive spirit from the warmth of your car.
When to See It: The trail is running every night through December 31st, with participants encouraged to keep their dazzling displays on until at least 9:00 PM each evening.
Find the Map: You can find the official map and the curated festive playlist to enhance your drive by visiting the Massac County Christmas Light Trail Facebook page. There are QR codes and clickable links available there!
Cast Your Vote: Don’t forget, voting is currently underway to select the Massac County Christmas Light Trail Grand Champion! Check the organizers’ social media for details on how to weigh in and pick your favorite.
WMOK Community Events Listing
Save The Date
1-1-26, 11-1pm
American Legion (321 Market St.),
Free for all former Allied/Honeywell/DOE workers plus 1 guest
RSVP to Nuclear Care Partners 618-744-0077 by December 29th, 2025
Nuclear Care Partners will be serving a traditional New Year’s Day lunch–buffet style, to serve former Allied/Honeywell workers in the area.
Come to meet the team, mingle with other former atomic workers!
Former Allied/Honeywell workers may be entitled to up to $400,000 in compensation and no-cost medical benefits through the DOL’s EEOICPA.
American Legion Auxiliary #306 PRESENTS-Lucky 7’s
Must Be 18yrs old to enter & play
WMOK's Coffee Break Program:
We invite you to text
questions and topics for our guests to
618-524-9209
Send your Job and Career Listings to WMOK
Text the information to 618-524-9209
Links to Local Employers:
Massac Memorial Hospital
MMH is hiring! Join a team that puts patients first and supports the health of our community every day. Compassion. Excellance. Local Care. Apply today at www.massachealth.org/careers or by scanning the QR code.
Rural Health, Inc.
Metropolis Big John
Shawnee Community College
City of Metropolis
Southern Seven Health Department
Comments