More than 250 new laws take effect Jan. 1

On behalf of the Illinois Senate Democratic Caucus, we want to wish you a happy holiday season and a new year filled with health, happiness and prosperity.

With the start of the new year comes more than 250 new laws. Legalization of adult-use cannabis, an increased minimum wage and new regulations on kennels are just a few recently passed measures that take effect Jan. 1, 2020.

Read the full list of new laws here.

Watch our slideshow about the new initiatives here.

Lightford minimum wage increase now under effect

SPRINGFIELD — Minimum wage earners statewide will see a $1 per hour increase their next paycheck under a law spearheaded by Senate Majority Leader Kimberly A. Lightford (D-Maywood) that was signed in February to gradually increase Illinois’ minimum wage to $15 by January 2025.

“Many working families have waited for this increase for almost a decade,” Lightford said. “I stand firmly on the belief that workers deserve a decent wage and I am committed to standing with them as we continue the fight for a living wage.”

Read more.

Murphy law gives students ability to self-administer medication

SPRINGFIELD — Students are now allowed to self-administer prescribed medication while at school under a law sponsored by State Senator Laura Murphy (D-Des Plaines).

Murphy’s measure requires schools to allow students with an action plan to self-administer prescribed medication with permission from their parent or guardian.

Read more.

In case you missed it

MEMBERS IN THE NEWS

Senate President John J. Cullerton, Chicago: Illinois Senate President John Cullerton talks about Blagojevich, bipartisanship and changes brought by social media as his time in Springfield comes to an end | Chicago Tribune

Sen. Linda Holmes, Aurora: No one wants the dreaded callback after a mammogram. Under a new Illinois law, at least there's a good chance you won't have to pay | Tucson.com

Sen. Heather Steans, Chicago: Recreational marijuana becomes legal in Illinois | CBS Chicago

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