More than 200 laws will take effect thanks to actions by Illinois citizens and activists working with lawmakers: improvements, refinements and updates to reflect changing times and needs.
Here are some interesting new laws to give you a quick overview of what’s coming your way:
- Intimidation, stalking, cyber- stalking or transmission of obscene messages could be considered hate crimes. HB3711 Sen. Omar Aquino
- A related measure expands cyberstalking penalties to cover tracking software and threats . HB3251 Sen. Tom Cullerton
- When pets are considered marital assets, who gets custody can become part of the proceedings. SB1261 Sen. Linda Holmes – Starting in 2018, divorcing couples in Illinois who can’t agree on who keeps the pet will have a judge decide. Traditionally, companion animals are treated more like property to be divvied up between the couple. But officials say, with the rise of two-income, childless families, the issue of pet custody has been appearing in courtrooms more and more often. So starting January 1st, judges will have clear guidance when deciding whether to award sole custody to one pet parent or mandate they share custody. Factors will include things like who takes care of the pet on a day-to-day basis and who spends more money on things like food or vaccinations.
- August 4 is our 44th President’s birthday. It’s also now Barack Obama Day in Illinois to honor the Chicagoan’s historic election and two terms in the White House. SB55 Sen. Emil Jones, III
- A new state law gives 16- and 17-year olds the option of signing up to be organ and tissue donors when they apply for a driver’s license or identification card. HB1805 Sen. Mattie Hunter
- Women often end up paying more than men for dry cleaning, haircuts and other services. A new state law requires price lists for standard services so customers can make more informed decisions. SB298 Sen. Melinda Bush
- Now customers have the right to post reviews whether positive or negative on apps like Yelp. SB1898 Sen. Steve Stadelman
- Individuals can change their gender designation on their birth certificate without undergoing gender transition. HB1785 Sen. Toi Hutchinson
See a complete list of new laws HERE
What laws are we still missing? Tweet me.
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