The first day of July is usually an important one for new laws taking effect. And this year, Illinois is no outlier. The state’s residents will witness several major changes from gas tax increases to alterations in paid leave and minimum wage. Here are the details of what will change in Illinois from July 1.

Increase in Gas Tax

Beginning July 1, people driving in Illinois should get prepared for higher fuel costs. The state’s gas tax will face a rise of than 3.5%, growing from $0.454 per gallon to $0.47. We’ll also see an increase in diesel fuel costs from $0.529 per gallon to $0.545, showing a 3% increment.

This change is associated with Governor J.B. Pritzker’s “Rebuild Illinois” capital plan which plans to put nearly $45 billion over six years into better infrastructure facilities. The state’s gas tax, increased three times since 2022, moves Illinois to the second highest position across the country with only California ahead.

Guaranteed Paid Leave for Workers

Chicago laborers are set to enjoy stepped-up access to guaranteed paid leave provisions. Employees who work at least 80 hours within a span of 120 days can now make use of up to five days each of paid leave as well as sick leave. The arrangement enables workers to earn one hour of sick leave for every 35-hour work duration, which must be ready for use by the 30th workday. They can also carry over 80 hours of leave across 12month periods.

Hike in Minimum Wage in Chicago and Cook County

Workers living in Chicago and suburban Cook County are in line for an increment in their minimum wages. In Chicago, the bare minimum wage will move up to $16.20 per hour from the current $15.80. Wages for workers earning gratuities will also go up to $11.02 per hour, set to meet the regular minimum wage over an interval of five years. In suburban Cook County, non-tip earning employees will have their minimum wage increased to $14.05 while those earning tips will stick with their current rate of $8.40 per hour.

Driver’s Licenses Given To Undocumented Immigrants

In Illinois, starting July 1, undocumented immigrants can avail driver’s licenses. The new legal provision is targeted at reducing stigmas and enhancing road safety. Immigrants should pass a driving test, confirm valid car insurance coverage, show identification documents, and prove they’ve resided in Illinois for a year at least.

The Protection Act for Freelance Workers

Enhanced defending measures for freelance workers are set to take effect on July 1. This new law requires companies to settle payment with freelancers on or before the date stated in the contract. If no date is mentioned, companies should pay up within 30 days from work completion. The legislation keeps freelancers safe from threats, intimidation, discipline, harassment or discrimination and details complaints reporting procedures to the Illinois Department of Labor.

Child Labor Law Update for Social Media Stars

A fresh rule will provide better protections for child influencers under age 16 appearing in viral social media content. Such children can now claim a share of their earnings which must be put aside in trust accounts until they turn 18. The rule also allows individuals aged above 18 to legally contest if they were not adequately paid for their appearances in monetized videos as children.

Amendments In School Code for Assessment Tests

School boards now have to hold public votes before they nod approval for contracts related to district administered assessment tests. Public needs to be informed about these meetings and kept accessible.

Additional Adjustments

Other notable rules taking effect include the establishment of a “Creative Economy Task Force” and refinements to student loan repayment schemes for those working in mental health sectors. For a comprehensive run-through of new laws, visit the website of Illionois General Assembly.

Overall Impact of the Changes

The gas tax increment will impact the wallets of Illinois’ motorists particularly touching middle- and lower-income families. On another front, several workers will benefit from revisions in minimum wage and paid leave rates. The new norms regarding driver’s licenses aim at better incorporation of undocumented immigrants into society, thereby improving safety and lessening stigma. Freelancers and child influencers stand protected by new regulations ensuring right treatment and fair pay for them. A major transition is being seen in the laws governing Illinois which intends to build a safer and more justifiable living space for all its residents.