Kane County Reporter

As the year comes to a close, Illinois is set to implement 293 new laws starting January 1, 2025. Senator Don DeWitte has shared insights on several of these laws, highlighting both support and opposition.

Among the significant changes is the final phase of the minimum wage increase initiated in 2019. From January, workers aged 18 and older will receive $15 per hour. Senator DeWitte noted that this change ensures higher wages but also raises costs for employers in a state still struggling with job creation.

Consumer protection laws have been expanded with Senate Bill 3342 requiring public notice before pesticide application in municipal areas. Additionally, Senate Bill 2933 prohibits consumer reporting agencies from including medical debt information in reports.

For drivers and motorists, House Bill 4592 introduces mobile identification cards and licenses, while Senate Bill 2740 mandates reasonable accommodations for accessible parking by condominium associations.

Education sees enhancements with House Bill 5394 requiring cardiac emergency response training for school personnel and Senate Bill 2824 ensuring children removed from homes can attend their original schools if deemed beneficial by DCFS. Automated external defibrillators will be available at all schools under Senate Bill 3571.

Insurance regulations are updated through several bills. Notably, House Bill 5559 requires detailed explanations for total loss vehicle claims, while Senate Bill 2697 mandates coverage for genetic testing and cancer imaging under health plans.

Public safety measures include increased penalties for catalytic converter theft (House Bill 4589) and mandatory autism awareness training for police officers (Senate Bill 3201). Other initiatives address abuse reporting requirements and enhanced visibility measures for emergency vehicles.

Veterans and military families benefit from new provisions such as waived building permit fees for disabled veterans' home modifications (Senate Bill 2751) and free admission to state museums for Gold Star Families (Senate Bill 2959).

Workplace changes allow daycare centers to operate around the clock if parents work shifts (Senate Bill 3207), while public safety advancements strengthen Scott’s Law penalties (House Bill 5370) and expand stalking protections against unauthorized electronic tracking (Senate Bill 2683).

Public health improvements include extended hearing aid coverage across all ages (House Bill 2443) and capped epinephrine twin-pack costs at $60 (House Bill 3639). Access to physical therapy via telehealth is broadened by House Bill 5087.

For a comprehensive list of all new laws effective January next year, further details are available online.