Kane County Reporter

Starting July 1, a series of new laws will come into effect across Illinois, encompassing areas such as human rights, education, healthcare, insurance, and the judiciary. These legislative changes include both new enactments and updates to existing statutes.

The state budget for Fiscal Year 2025-2026 is established under SB 2510 by the 104th General Assembly. It enacts a $55 billion budget—the largest in state history—representing a 40% spending increase over six years with tax hikes and funding for various projects.

In human rights legislation, HB 2297 from the 103rd General Assembly mandates that state agencies include data on non-binary and gender non-conforming individuals in employment records. HB 5172 requires free interpreter services in administrative hearings when necessary. Furthermore, HB 3223 allows students to cite pregnancy or violence as mitigating factors during disciplinary actions and ensures access to remote learning and confidentiality protections. The Customized Employment Demonstration Program (HB 5354) expands employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities.

Judiciary-related changes include HB 4727 waiving birth record fees in guardianship cases handled by the State Guardian. Additionally, HB 4621 establishes an Office of Statewide Pretrial Services under judicial oversight.

Insurance reforms are seen in HB 2189 capping insulin costs at $35 for a month's supply and HB 5559 requiring transparency from insurers regarding total loss decisions on vehicles.

Educational reforms involve SB 1400 directing ISBE to develop guidance on student safety and discipline policies while SB 1558 introduces a training program for direct support professionals at community colleges. School treasurer governance is reformed through HB 305 allowing certain districts autonomy over financial oversight.

In health services, HB 5000 permits assisted living facilities to admit residents needing catheter care if administered professionally or self-administered.

State government adjustments include HB 5028 allowing opioid antagonist storage by trained staff at state agencies.

Criminal justice measures involve HB 4410 prohibiting law enforcement from engaging in sexual acts during prostitution investigations. Corrections records digitization is mandated by SB 422 with deadlines set for inmate files and related records.

Environmental policy changes under SB 2960 require hotels with over fifty rooms to eliminate small plastic toiletry bottles by mid-2025.

Transportation initiatives allow IDOT to implement highway noise reduction programs as authorized by SB 3175.

Equity efforts see supplier diversity oversight shifted from CMS to the Commission on Equity and Inclusion via SB 3238.

Lastly, public safety enhancements extend deadlines for integrating behavioral health coordination with emergency services through SB 3648 until July next year.