Key Takeaways
- Illinois lawmakers have introduced 287 new laws that will come into effect on January 1, 2026
- The laws cover a wide range of topics, including the elimination of the 1% statewide grocery tax, the regulation of artificial intelligence in the workplace, and the designation of the soybean as the official state bean
- Other notable laws include the requirement for state agencies to report their advertising spending, the creation of a fiscal year 2026 budget implementation act, and the allowance for 7th- and 8th-grade students to enroll in high school courses
- The laws also address issues such as college cost transparency, the use of artificial intelligence in schools, and the availability of opioid antagonists in libraries
Introduction to New Laws in Illinois
Illinois lawmakers have ensured that residents will ring in the New Year with nearly 300 new laws. These laws, which will come into effect on January 1, 2026, cover a wide range of topics, including the elimination of the 1% statewide grocery tax, the regulation of artificial intelligence in the workplace, and the designation of the soybean as the official state bean. While some of these laws may seem minor, they will have a significant impact on the daily lives of Illinois residents.
Elimination of the Statewide Grocery Tax
One of the most notable laws is the elimination of the 1% statewide grocery tax. This change is expected to result in savings for many families, although about half of Illinois municipalities have reinstated the tax at the local level. There are currently 660 communities that have imposed the 1% grocery tax, which may offset some of the savings for residents. The elimination of the statewide grocery tax is a positive step towards reducing the financial burden on Illinois families.
Regulation of Artificial Intelligence in the Workplace
Another significant law is the regulation of artificial intelligence in the workplace. House Bill 3773, introduced by lawmakers in 2023, regulates the use of artificial intelligence by employers. The bill makes it a civil rights violation for employers to use AI tools that result in discrimination based on race, gender, age, or disability in hiring, promotion, discipline, termination, or other employment terms. This law is an important step towards ensuring that employers use AI in a responsible and fair manner.
Designation of the Soybean as the Official State Bean
In a more lighthearted move, lawmakers have designated the soybean as the official state bean. This law, introduced by lawmakers in the 103rd Illinois General Assembly, is finally in effect. While this law may seem minor, it is a nod to the importance of soybeans in Illinois agriculture.
College Cost Transparency and AI in Schools
Other notable laws include the requirement for state agencies to report their advertising spending and the creation of a fiscal year 2026 budget implementation act. Additionally, the laws address issues such as college cost transparency, the use of artificial intelligence in schools, and the availability of opioid antagonists in libraries. For example, Senate Bill 1376 requires each public or private college or university to post its cost of attendance from the past 10 academic years, giving prospective students a better understanding of the true cost of attending that college or university.
Criticism of Lawmakers’ Focus
While these laws may seem minor, they are an indication of the busy legislative schedule of Illinois lawmakers. However, some critics argue that lawmakers are too focused on minor issues and should devote more energy to addressing the state’s major problems, such as increasing taxation, pension debt, and spending habits. By prioritizing these issues, lawmakers could make Illinois a more attractive place to live and work.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the 287 new laws introduced by Illinois lawmakers will have a significant impact on the daily lives of residents. While some of these laws may seem minor, they address important issues such as college cost transparency, the use of artificial intelligence in schools, and the availability of opioid antagonists in libraries. However, critics argue that lawmakers should focus more on addressing the state’s major problems, such as increasing taxation, pension debt, and spending habits. By prioritizing these issues, lawmakers could make Illinois a more attractive place to live and work.
