With the dawn of 2025, Illinois residents can expect significant changes as 293 new laws come into effect on January 1, 2025, according to the Illinois General Assembly. These laws span critical areas such as healthcare, employee rights, transportation, and more, bringing noteworthy updates for individuals and businesses alike. Below, we highlight some of the most impactful changes to watch out for:
Health and Wellness
Insurance Reforms:
- HB 2350: Mandates coverage for annual prostate cancer screenings and Pap smears for all insured individuals, regardless of gender.
- HB 2443: Requires insurance plans to cover hearing instruments for all individuals, extending beyond those under 18.
- HB 3639: Caps the cost of twin-pack epinephrine injectors at $60 or less.
- HB 5395: Outlaws “step therapy” practices and prohibits limited-duration insurance plans that don’t meet federal ACA standards.
- SB 3203: Limits the cost of life-saving inhalers to $25 per 30-day supply.
- SB 3318: Requires state employee insurance plans to cover FDA-approved Alzheimer’s treatments.
Reproductive and Mental Health:
- HB 5142: Implements the “Birth Equity Act,” mandating coverage for midwife and doula services.
- HB 4867: Protects reproductive health decisions under the Illinois Human Rights Act.
- SB 3538: Expands mental health counseling coverage for first responders.
Other Notable Provisions:
- SB 2643: Establishes protocols for the custody of human remains.
- SB 1087: Launches a state campaign on mold-related health risks.
Transportation Updates
Driver’s License Modernization:
- HB 4592: Introduces mobile driver’s licenses and ID cards.
- SB 0275: Offers the option of 8-year driver’s licenses within two years.
Parking Restrictions:
- HB 5408: Prohibits parking within a half-mile radius of O’Hare Airport’s eastern entrance.
Labor and Employment
Minimum Wage Increase:
- As of January 1, 2025, the minimum wage for non-tipped employees will rise to $15/hour, with tipped employees earning a minimum of $9/hour.
Pay Transparency:
- HB 3129: Requires most Illinois-based businesses to disclose pay scales and benefits in job listings, aiming to enhance wage transparency and equity.
Offbeat and Miscellaneous Laws
- HB 0307: Athletes can now receive NIL compensation directly from universities, with protections for deal privacy.
- SB 3173: Allows counties to expand broadband access by leasing infrastructure to public and private entities.
- SB 3407: Facilitates deer meat donations to charitable organizations.
Key Takeaways
Residents and businesses should review these changes to understand their potential impacts. From healthcare accessibility to wage adjustments and enhanced labor rights, these laws aim to improve the quality of life across Illinois. For the full list of laws taking effect in 2025, visit the Illinois General Assembly’s website.
Stay informed and prepared for what’s ahead as Illinois ushers in a transformative year.