A New Year is in full swing and some new state laws are officially in effect, ranging from increased speed limits to the regulation of e-cigarettes. The Illinois Senate Democrats previously released a list of Top 15 new laws of 2015; and you can read the complete list of around 220 state laws and regulations approved by the state legislature here. In the meantime, we’ve summarized some prominent ones we think you’d like to know about below.
Nursing Homes
Nursing home chains must now submit annual reports regarding the state of their institution; power of attorney forms have been updated for a new year; and procedures for maintaining and renewing an advanced nursing license have been adjusted for processing.
E-Cigarettes
Much has been said about the safety of e-cigarettes and their accessibility to children and teens. Illinois is toughening up its stance on the popular smoking alternative, making them much harder to buy in common locations like gas stations and convenient stores. E-cigs must now remain behind counters and in sealed packages, much in the same way cigarettes are sold. Refills for e-cigs are now required be in child-proof packaging, too.
Drones for Illinois Police
For Illinois’ finest, drones have been the topic of debate when it comes to their use. Certain restrictions apply, but what’s certain is that offices will continue to use drones during extreme cases, such as a natural disaster or public health emergency. Serving as a so-called “Eye in the Sky,” drones have the potential to change search and rescue – and police surveillance – as we know it, navigating vantage points and zones that a person simply cannot.
Illinois Schools
School construction plans now require the development and maintenance of storm shelters to protect students from dangerous weather; and schools now have the option to discipline students who engage in cyberbullying inside and outside of school.
Victims’ Rights
House Bill 5990 expands child advocacy centers’ authority over child sexual abuse victims and victims of maltreatment, as well as components of investigation into child maltreatment cases.
State Speed Limit
A new state law increases the speed limit on toll ways throughout Illinois, up from 55mph to 70mph in certain locations. The Illinois Toll way board still must approve the measure before it officially goes into effect. Selected toll ways, however, have bumped the limit a smidge higher in rural areas, specifically for trucks and rigs, increasing from 55 mph to 60 mph.
Teen Drinking
Adults over the age of 21 can expect harsher laws and even harsher penalties, should they supply alcohol to those under the legal drinking age. House Bill 4745 expands the list of places, such as campers and boats, where parents are liable for supplying underage people with alcohol.
Are there any new laws you’ve heard about that you’d like to discuss? Let us know in the comments or on social media!
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