East Central Reporter

On New Year's Day, Illinois will see the implementation of over 300 new state laws, impacting various aspects of daily life for its residents. These changes will affect gun owners, drivers, utility customers, and more, according to Representative Halbrook.

One significant change is the deadline for gun owners to register their firearms and ammunition under the new gun ban and registration law. Despite legal challenges, gun owners are required to register their firearms and ammunition by January 1. The Illinois State Police has been assigned the task of creating rules for the registration process.

Additionally, the minimum wage in Illinois will see an increase starting on January 1. Non-tipped workers will see their minimum wage rise from $13.00 to $14.00 per hour, while tipped employees will experience an increase from $7.80 to $8.40 per hour. These adjustments are part of the Illinois Minimum Wage Law.

Other notable laws coming into effect on January 1 include:

- Prohibition of video conferencing while driving (HB 2431).

- Prohibition of electronic cigarettes and vapes in public places and near building entrances (HB 1540).

- Prohibition of utility companies from cutting off electric or gas service to residential customers when the temperature reaches 90 degrees (HB 1541).

- Requirement for all new single and multi-family homes to include electric vehicle-capable parking (SB 40).

- Adoption of the Library Association's Bill of Rights by libraries, preventing the removal of books based on content (HB 2789).

- Permission for pharmacies and retail stores to sell fentanyl test strips over the counter (HB 3203).

- Requirement for schools to have an opioid antagonist in secure locations where an opioid overdose may occur (HB 3428).

While some of these new laws are seen as positive changes, Representative Halbrook expressed concerns about the impact of these changes on constitutional rights, family values, and taxpayers' wallets. He called for a course correction in 2024, including a complete overhaul of the Safe-T-Act, which has allegedly led to an increase in crime in communities across the state. Representative Halbrook emphasized the need to prioritize responsible spending and ensure that parents have the authority to make important decisions about their children.

As the calendar flips to 2024, Illinois residents will need to familiarize themselves with the new laws that will shape their daily lives.

To find out more, go to this link: https://rephalbrook.com/2023/12/27/new-year-new-laws-2/