Changes Ahead for Illinois Residents
The New Year will bring significant changes for residents of Illinois, as hundreds of new laws will take effect starting January 1, 2025. According to the Illinois General Assembly, at least 293 new laws are set to become applicable, many of which may have a considerable impact on residents’ health, finances, transportation, and education.
For those interested in a comprehensive list of the new laws, the Illinois General Assembly’s website provides details on all changes, available here.
Health and Wellness Enhancements
Among the most notable changes are numerous health and wellness laws. For instance, HB 2350 mandates that all health insurance companies in Illinois cover regular prostate and cervical screenings for all insured individuals, regardless of gender. Furthermore, HB 2443 extends coverage for medically necessary hearing instruments to individuals of all ages.
Changes to Insurance Policies
- HB 3639: Imposes a price cap of $60 for a twin-pack of epinephrine injectors.
- HB 5395: Reform bill prohibiting claims denial based on treatment choices and eliminating ‘step therapy’ practices.
Transportation Improvements
In terms of transportation laws, HB 4592 allows the Secretary of State to issue both mobile ID cards and driver’s licenses. Moreover, HB 5408 prevents drivers from stopping or parking vehicles on highway shoulders near O’Hare Airport.
Increasing Minimum Wage
Beginning January 1, 2025, the state and Cook County’s minimum wage is set to rise to $15 an hour for non-tipped employees, while tipped workers will receive $9 an hour.
The changes in Illinois law for 2025 are designed to enhance the quality of life for residents, making health care more accessible, improving transportation options, and ensuring fair wages. Residents are encouraged to familiarize themselves with these new regulations to fully understand how they may influence personal and financial aspects of their lives as the New Year approaches.
Comments are closed