Starting January 1st, a series of new laws will take effect in Illinois, signed by Governor J.B. Pritzker. Here are some key changes that will impact residents:
Minimum Wage:
The minimum wage will increase to $15 per hour, the final increase from a 2019 law.
Tipped workers will have a minimum wage of $9 per hour.
Workers under 18, working less than 650 hours a year, will earn $13 per hour.
Employers with 15+ employees must include pay scales and benefits in job postings and provide pay stubs upon request within 21 days.
Environmental Regulations:
Treated municipal wastewater can be used for irrigation with an EPA permit.
Liquor Regulations:
Alcohol-infused products cannot be displayed next to non-alcohol products appealing to youth, like soft drinks or snacks.
Liquor stores must post a sign with an authorized state alcoholism and substance abuse helpline.
Healthcare Provisions:
Insurance policies must cover medically necessary colonoscopies and limit costs for epinephrine injectors to $60 for a twin-pack.
Coverage for molecular breast imaging (MBI) and hormone therapy for menopause is mandated.
Insurance must cover urine-based pregnancy tests, even if available over the counter.
In case of a shortage of generic drugs, insurers must provide coverage for brand-name prescriptions.
Municipal Governance:
Municipalities can regulate low-speed electric scooters on public roads and sidewalks where bicycles are allowed.
Local governments must notify the public within 24 hours of mosquito or pesticide spraying.
Public Health and Safety:
Transactions involving catalytic converters must include the vehicle’s identification number, and recyclers must require proof of ownership.
Vehicles transporting garbage must have a working tailgate and a cover to prevent load spillage.
By July 1, 2027, an eight-year driver’s license option will be available for qualified applicants.
Starting July 1, 2025, hotels with 50+ rooms cannot provide small single-use plastic bottles for personal care products, with the same rule applying to smaller hotels starting January 1, 2026.
These new laws aim to enhance wages, healthcare access, environmental protection, and public safety across Illinois.
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