More than 250 new laws will go into effect on Jan. 1 in Illinois. This includes a new requirement for children to sit in a rear-facing car seat, background checks for ride operators, and expanded stalking laws to include messages via social media.
- Children under age 2 will be required to sit in a rear-facing car seat. There will be height and weight exemptions.
- People with substance use disorders can get immediate access to outpatient treatment. An administrative barrier has been removed allowing an individual to begin treatment prior to receiving authorization from an insurance company.
- All schools must conduct at least one law-enforcement led active shooter drill a year no later than 90 days after the first day of the school year.
- Nursing mothers will be excused from jury duty upon request.
- To increase public safety, background checks will be required for every ride operator at carnivals and amusement attractions.
- If you are required to use your personal phone or computer for work, your employer must have a reimbursement policy.
- Police can take temporary custody of dogs or cats exposed to weather conditions likely to result in injury or death.
- Stalking behavior is expanded to include sending unwanted messages via social media. It also allows places of employment, places of worship or schools to petition for an order against a person stalking their locations.
- A new brochure will be published and distributed by the Department of Public Health to educate the public on the effects of concussions in children and how to look for warning signs.
- Hunters have a new wardrobe option, blaze pink. Hunters may wear blaze pink or blaze orange during the firearm deer season and upland game season.