(SPRINGFIELD)There are many new laws set to take effect in the new year that will impact Illinois motorists. Beginning Jan. 1, no vehicle can be stopped or searched by law enforcement solely because of an object placed or suspended between the driver and front windshield, rear windshield, side wings, or side windows. State Rep. LaShawn Ford, is the sponsor of the so-called “rearview mirror law”, while The Illinois Sheriffs’ Association and the Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police were opposed to the legislation. Also on Jan. 1, a new law prohibits people from using social media or video calling apps while driving in Illinois. Two other new laws affect motorcyclists. Motorcycle license exams will no longer be required for residents under the age of 18, even though they will still have to complete a training course. Another prohibits blue auxiliary lighting on motorcycles as they can only emit red light while braking.
(SPRINGFIELD) Small business advocates are discussing the impact new Illinois laws going into effect Jan. 1 could have on employers. Several laws will go into effect in 2024, including Senate Bill 2034 which extends bereavement time for workers when dealing with the loss of a child. Other measures include the previous General Assembly’s Senate Bill 208, which mandates paid time off to be used for any reason. Other laws going to effect in 2024 include a fair wage act in Chicago and Blood and Organ Donation Leave Act which allows workers to take time off to give blood.
(SPRINGFIELD) U.S. District Court Judge John Robert Blakey issued an order Wednesday for former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan to appear in court along with co-defendant Michael McClain, a former state lawmaker and close confidante of Madigan. The judge will consider the defendant’s joint motion to stay proceedings at a hearing at 2 p.m. on Jan. 3.Madigan was initially charged along with McClain in March 2022 with 22 counts of racketeering and bribery for his alleged improper dealings with the state’s largest utility, ComEd. Prosecutors further alleged that he used his political power to unlawfully steer business to his private law firm. In October 2022, prosecutors filed a superseding indictment that charged Madigan and McClain with conspiracy related to an alleged corruption scheme involving AT&T Illinois.