Chicago film production is booming, as you might expect under a mayor that is the brother to one of the industry’s most powerful agents (Ari Emmanuel, CEO of Endeavor). In addition to more than a dozen series filming in Chicago each year, there is also a consistent stream of feature films. Commercials are shot here often as well, since many of the nations top advertising firms are in Chicago, including BBDO, Ogilvy, DDB and Leo Burnett.
Illinois has several film offices: Illinois Film Office, Chicago Film Office, Southern Illinois Film Commission and Central Illinois Film Commission.
Parents will want to note that in Illinois, a minor is considered anyone under the age of 16 (not 18 as in most other states). Children 16-18 work as adults here. The following rules apply to any minor (under 16) employed as a performer in film, commercials, music videos, digital productions, industrial and any/all filiming productions. Please contact IDOL for more information on theater, live music, dance, print or live modeling rules–they may be different.
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Highlights :
-Minor Employment Certificate: A valid Illinois Minor Employment Certificate must be issued to the minor prior to employment.
–Trust Accounts of 15% are required in IL, but background actors do not need to comply.
-Supervision: A minor must be accompanied by a parent/guardian while employed.
-Meal Break: A minor must receive a ½ hour meal after five (5) hours of work.
-Work Day: The child work day must remain between the hours of 7AM and 7PM from Labor Day to June 1, and between 7AM and 9PM from June 1 to Labor Day. Work hours are in two categories: 0-8 years old, and 9-15 years old.
-Turnaround: A minor must be provided a twelve (12) hour turnaround rest break at the end of the workday and prior to the commencement of their next work day or school day.
-Days: No minor shall be employed for more than six (6) days in any one week.
-Facilities: All Minors must be provided with separate and adequate facilities for rest, schooling and recreation.
-Posting: Employers must post a copy of the Illinois Child Labor Code is a location visible to all staff and crew
Click here for Ilinois Department of Commerce Child Labor Laws
Click here for Illinois Trust Account Law