The approach of the new year means the pending arrival of a batch of new state laws that go into effect January 1.For Illinoisans who might be unaware of these new rules and regulations, the Illinois Senate Democrats released a slideshow, “Top 15 New Illinois Laws for 2015,” which are easy to grasp and important to know. And in case you’re up for the challenge, here are summaries for all news laws taking effect in 2015.
If you have trouble viewing the slideshow, a plain text version follows.
1. E-Cigs
- Must be kept behind store counters and out of reach from children.
- Vapor refills must come in child-proof packaging.
2. Upped speed limits
- The speed limit on the state’s tollways and interstates will increase to 70 mph; 60 mph for semis.
3. Traffic stops
- No more ticket quota system for police.
- If you get pulled over and are issued a ticket, your drivers license won’t be held as bond.
4. Pregnancy in the workplace
- Employers must provide pregnant workers with reasonable accommodations, or else it’s a civil rights violation.
5. Homeowner damage disclosure
- Home sellers must disclose any door or window damage, including:
- flood damage
- lead paint
- asbestos
- meth lab
6. Beer tax and milk definitions
- The beer tax will extend to hard ciders.
- Milk definition now includes sheep, water buffalo and other hooved animals.
7. Medical marijuana to treat seizures
- Children who suffer from seizures can qualify for cannabidiol (CBD), which is an orally-administered liquid to treat epilepsy (not the leafy stuff).
8. Boating, boozing and hoisting orange flags
- Those who boat under the influence will have their boats impounded.
- If boat passengers are in the water, an orange flag must be raised to indicate the presence of swimmers.
9. School storm shelters
- Newly constructed schools must have a storm shelter.
10. Privacy for crime victims
- Strengthens security and privacy for the automatic system that notifies victims when their offenders are granted parole or released.
11. Use of drones
- Police forces can use drones in the event of a natural disaster or public health emergency.
12. Punishing cyber bullies
- School administrators can discipline students who bully their peers on personal devices, even if it’s not on school grounds.
13. Cold-blooded permits
- Permits will be required for owners of venomous or other dangerous reptiles and amphibians.
14. New drug bans
- Illegalizes synthetic drugs similar to LSD, such as “N-Bomb.”
- The law is intended to prevent minors from possessing Kratom plants, which have opiate-like effects.
15. Hunting bans
- It is illegal to hunt, own or trade gray wolves, black bears and cougars.
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Kevin Hoffman is a Reboot Illinois staff writer who graduated from the University of Iowa with a degree in journalism, political science and international studies. He believes keeping citizens informed and politicians in check is the best way to improve Illinois and bring about common sense reform. Follow us on Facebook.