McLean County Times

More than 300 new state laws went into effect in Illinois this week, covering a wide range of issues including gun registration, minimum wage, and fentanyl overdose protection. One of the key laws that took effect on January 1 is the gun ban and registration law, which requires gun owners to register their firearms and ammunition. Despite ongoing legal challenges, the deadline remained in place for gun owners to comply with the law. The Illinois State Police has provided registration information for gun owners to follow.

In addition to the gun registration law, the minimum wage in Illinois has also increased to $14.00 per hour for non-tipped employees. Tipped employees will now earn a minimum wage of $8.40 per hour. These increases are part of a schedule enacted within the Illinois Minimum Wage Law.

Other notable new laws include a prohibition on video conferencing while driving, a ban on electronic cigarettes and vapes in public places, and a requirement for utility companies to refrain from cutting off electric or gas service to residential customers when the temperature reaches 90 degrees. Workers in Illinois can now also earn up to 40 hours of paid leave in a 12-month period, and all new homes must include electric vehicle-capable parking.

Furthermore, the state has taken steps to protect children testifying in abuse cases by allowing them to testify without confronting their abusers in open court. Pharmacies and retail stores are now able to sell fentanyl test strips over the counter, and schools are required to have an opioid antagonist in secure locations where an opioid overdose may occur.

Despite the implementation of these new laws, some concerns remain. Illinois State Representative Jason Plummer expressed disappointment that important fixes to the Democrats' Safe-T-Act were not addressed. Plummer, who chairs the Truth in Public Safety Task Force, stated, "Our task force held hearings throughout the state, and we filed two dozen bills to help restore public safety in our communities, and to support our police. Not one of the bills was allowed to even be debated in a House committee. In 2024, we must make crime illegal again in Illinois."

In other news, the deadline for Illinoisans to switch to the "Real ID" has been extended. Illinois driver's licenses and ID cards will continue to be accepted at airports, military bases, and secure federal facilities until May 7, 2025. The Illinois Department of Natural Resources has also extended the controlled pheasant hunting season for the 2023-2024 season. Hunters interested in participating should check the permit calendar on the controlled pheasant hunting website for availability.

Grant applications are also being accepted through the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity for local infrastructure and housing improvements. The Public Infrastructure Grant and Housing Rehabilitation Grant applications are due on January 18, 2024.

In local news, Betsy and Tom Corcoran attended the 92nd Annual Pontiac Holiday Tournament, watching some great high school basketball games. Additionally, Corn Belt Energy is offering a high school leadership opportunity for students living in their service area.

As 2024 begins, the hope is that these new laws and initiatives will contribute to a safer and more prosperous Illinois.

For additional details, please follow this link: https://reptipsword.com/2024/01/05/new-laws-real-id-pheasant-hunting-and-more/