Section 320.230  Determination

a)         At the conclusion of the Department's investigation, unless the complaint has been withdrawn, dismissed, or otherwise resolved, the Department shall make one of the following determinations:

1)         Reasonable cause found.  If the Department determines that there is reasonable cause to believe that a violation of the Act has occurred, it shall:

A)        Seek a voluntary settlement agreement signed by the respondent that addresses the violation and provides appropriate relief to the complainant; or

B)        Commence referral to the Attorney General for initiation of a civil action.

2)         No reasonable cause found.  If the Department determines that there is no reasonable cause to believe that a violation of the Act has occurred, the Department shall dismiss the complaint pursuant to Section 320.220.

b)         Whenever a determination is made under this Section, a written notice shall be provided to the parties stating the Department's findings and any applicable civil penalty assessments pursuant to Section 30(c) of the Act.  The notice shall also advise the parties of the complainant's right to bring a civil action as provided for in Section 30 of the Act.

(Source:  Amended at 50 Ill. Reg. 8918, effective June 18, 2026)