As of January 1, 2025, more than 300 new laws have taken effect in Illinois, impacting various aspects of daily life, business regulations, and consumer protections. From digital driver’s licenses to salary transparency, these changes may affect individuals, businesses, and professionals across the state. Below is a summary of some of the most notable new laws and their implications.
New Laws in Illinois for 2025
Digital Driver’s Licenses
Illinois residents may soon have the option to carry a digital version of their driver’s license or state ID. Under House Bill 4592, the Secretary of State is authorized to develop a process for issuing digital IDs. However, physical IDs remain mandatory, and private businesses or agencies are not required to accept digital alternatives. Additionally, presenting a digital ID on a phone does not grant law enforcement permission to search the device.
Ban on Short-Term “Junk” Health Insurance
House Bill 2499 eliminates short-term, limited-duration health insurance plans in Illinois. These plans, often criticized for offering minimal coverage, will no longer be available. The change aims to ensure consumers have access to comprehensive health coverage that meets Affordable Care Act (ACA) standards.
Expanded Insurance Coverage for Hearing Aids
House Bill 2443 now requires health insurers to cover medically prescribed hearing aids and related services for individuals of all ages. Previously, coverage was often limited to children, leaving adults to bear high out-of-pocket costs.
Affordable Epinephrine Injectors (EpiPens)
Under House Bill 3639, the cost of a twin-pack of epinephrine injectors is now capped at $60. This change seeks to improve access to life-saving allergy medication by reducing financial burdens on consumers.
Artificial Intelligence Regulations
New laws have been enacted to regulate the use of artificial intelligence (AI). House Bill 4623 criminalizes the creation of AI-generated child pornography, while House Bill 4875 protects individuals from unauthorized use of their voice, image, or likeness for commercial purposes.
Salary Transparency in Job Postings
House Bill 3129 requires employers with 15 or more employees to disclose salary ranges and benefits in job postings. This law applies to remote positions in Illinois as well. The goal is to promote pay equity and reduce wage disparities based on gender and race.
Simplified Gym Membership and Subscription Cancellations
New consumer protection laws make it easier to cancel memberships and subscriptions. House Bill 4911 mandates that gyms and fitness centers allow cancellations via multiple methods, including online and email. Senate Bill 2764 requires businesses offering free trials to notify consumers at least three days before a paid subscription begins.
Workplace Rights: Religion and Politics
Employees can no longer be required to attend work meetings focused on political or religious discussions. Senate Bill 3649 prevents employers from retaliating against workers who opt out of such meetings. However, this law does not apply to advocacy groups or non-profits where these topics are essential to their mission.
Additional Noteworthy Laws
- House Bill 5561: Protects employees from retaliation if they report illegal workplace practices.
- Senate Bill 2654: Prevents storage fees for stolen vehicles recovered within seven days and allows owners to retrieve essential items.
- Senate Bill 3201: Enhances police training to improve responses to individuals with autism.
- Senate Bill 3471: Allows drivers to request free replacement license plates if theirs are stolen.
- Senate Bill 3479: Requires businesses offering veteran or military benefit services for a fee to disclose all terms upfront.
Upcoming Changes Later in 2025
Some laws passed in 2024 will not take effect immediately. Notable changes coming later in the year include:
- Health Insurance Reform (House Bill 5395): Effective January 2026, this law eliminates “step therapy” restrictions, expands mental health coverage, and strengthens oversight of insurance premium rates.
- Ban on Single-Use Plastic in Hotels (Senate Bill 2960): Starting July 1, 2025, many Illinois hotels will be prohibited from providing single-use plastic soap and shampoo containers. Smaller hotels have until 2026 to comply.
What These Changes Mean for You
With these new laws in place, Illinois residents and businesses should stay informed about how these regulations may affect them. Whether you’re an employer adjusting job postings, a business owner revising cancellation policies, or an individual seeking healthcare coverage, understanding these legal updates is essential. For personalized legal guidance on how these laws may impact you or your business, consult with an experienced attorney.
If you need assistance navigating any new laws for yourself or your business, contact us today.
This article is intended to serve as a general summary of the issues outlined therein. While this article may include general guidance, it is not intended as, nor is a substitute for, qualified legal advice. Your review or receipt of this article by Lexern Law Offices, Ltd. (the “LLG”) or any of its attorneys does not create an attorney-client relationship between you and the LLG. The opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors of the article and do not reflect the opinion of the LLG. Please note that this article may have been generated using AI technology.
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