Effective January 1, 2025, Illinois (HB 5640) will formally recognize the United States Space Force as an official branch of the United States Armed Forces, and clarify that members of this branch are covered under the Illinois Service Member Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (ISERRA). ISERRA covers employees in military service, which includes service in the Armed Forces of the United States.
The United States Space Force, established on December 20, 2019, is designated as an armed force within the Department of the Air Force. The Space Force’s mission is to ensure the U.S. can operate freely in space, manage space operations, and protect American interests.
Next Steps
Employers should review and update their military leave policies and procedures and ensure that managers/supervisors or those responsible for leave administration know about this change.
