McHenry Times

Starting July 1, a series of new laws will be implemented across Illinois. These measures span various sectors including human rights, education, health care, insurance, judiciary, and more.

The state budget is set to enact a $55 billion budget for Fiscal Year 2025-2026 under SB 2510. This represents the largest budget in state history and marks a 40% spending increase over six years. It includes new tax hikes and funding allocations.

In human rights, HB 2297 mandates state agencies to include data on non-binary and gender non-conforming persons in employment records. HB 5172 requires free interpreter services during administrative hearings when necessary. HB 3223 provides students facing disciplinary action the ability to cite pregnancy or domestic/sexual violence as mitigating factors while ensuring confidentiality and access to remote learning. The Customized Employment Demonstration Program (HB 5354) aims to serve individuals with disabilities by expanding its pilot program.

Judiciary changes include HB 4727 which waives birth record fees for certain guardianship cases and establishes verification standards for guardianship status. Additionally, HB 4621 creates an Office of Statewide Pretrial Services within the judiciary.

Insurance reforms are also being introduced with HB 2189 capping insulin costs at $35 for a month's supply. Under HB 5559, insurers must explain their decisions regarding total loss declarations for vehicles.

In education, SB 1400 directs ISBE to develop new guidance on student re-engagement and safety protocols while mandating staff training on discipline policies. SB 1558 establishes a training program for direct support professionals through community colleges. Governance reform allows some school districts more control over treasurer appointments via HB 305.

Health-related legislation such as HB 5000 permits assisted living facilities to admit residents requiring catheter care if managed by licensed professionals or self-administered.

State government initiatives allow agencies to administer opioid-reversal drugs with proper staff training under HB 5028.

Criminal justice reforms prohibit law enforcement from engaging in sexual acts during prostitution investigations through HB 4410 and require digitization of corrections records as per SB 422.

Environmental regulations include a ban on small plastic toiletry bottles in hotels with more than fifty rooms starting July 1, under SB 2960.

Transportation improvements authorize IDOT to implement noise reduction programs on highways through SB 3175.

Equity efforts see oversight of supplier diversity shifting from CMS to the Commission on Equity and Inclusion under SB 3238.

Lastly, public safety measures extend the deadline for integrating behavioral health coordination into emergency services via the "911" system until July next year as per SB 3648.