Watch Out for These 7 Illinois Laws That Go Into Effect January 1

Ignorance of the law is no excuse or so I've been told. That's one reason to become aware of many new pieces of legislation that will soon become the law of the land in Illinois and many go into effect on January 1, 2025.

I saw this interesting laundry list of new Illinois laws shared by DLA Piper Global Employment News, Insights and Events. From what I can gather, almost every new Illinois law that's about to be put to action will affect everyone. While I recommend checking out the full list they shared, here are some important ones.

• Illinois is now requiring (as of January 1) that any company that posts a job availability must also include the pay scale for that job. Wages, salaries, potential bonuses and benefits must be included.
• As of January 1, no company can discriminate against someone who is taking care of family responsibilities. Those responsibilities include "an employee's actual or perceived provision of personal care to a family member" and that can include just about any required activity that your other family member cannot manage themselves.
• Beginning at the start of 2025, no company in Illinois can discriminate against anyone because of a decision they make regarding their reproductive care.
• There are new requirements if a business wants to employ a minor including acquiring a certificate authorizing the action and keeping very detailed records of their work. It also restricts what hours can be worked and how many can be worked within a week's time.
• January 1, 2025 will see a big expansion of protection for whistleblowers who believe their safety and/or employment are jeopardized by speaking truthfully.
• Illinois will require beginning in 2025 more in-depth electronic confirmation of identity documents provided for proof of eligibility for employment.
• There's a new law described as a "captive audience ban" which, in short, is a restriction for companies to require an employee's attendance in a meeting where their religious or political beliefs must be shared. The business also may not hold an employee's non-attendance of those meetings against them.

There are many other Illinois laws that become effective January 1 involving artificial intelligence and biometrics. Definitely check out the full list provided for details on what will be the law of the land in Illinois soon.