As we begin the New Year, there are several new laws, ordinances, and taxes that took effect in Illinois and Cook County on January 1, 2017. At Dershow Law Group, we have compiled a list of five new laws and taxes in Illinois that we believe are important to know as we start 2017.

  • A new Illinois state law amends the State Vehicle Code and clarifies that bicyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as other users of the roadways, including those regarding a vehicle’s right of way. (Public Act 99-0785).
  • The Illinois Freedom to Work Act protects low-wage workers and prohibits certain Illinois employers from forcing anyone earning less than the applicable federal, state, or local hourly minimum wage, whichever is greater, to sign a non-compete agreement. (Public Act 99-0860).
  • A new Illinois law establishes a pilot program in Cook County regarding Criminal Expungement and Sealing Petitions. From January 1, 2017 through December 31, 2017, in Cook County, there is no filing fee required to file expungement and sealing petitions if the arrests or charges not initiated by arrest that are sought to be expunged or sealed resulted in release without charging, acquittal, dismissal or a conviction that was vacated or reversed. (Public Act 99-0881 and the Criminal Identification Act 20 ILCS 2630/5.2(d)(1.5)).
  • Cook County has approved a new beverage tax that will become effective on July 1, 2017, and will apply to all sugar and artificially sweetened drinks, which includes sports drinks, soda pop, lemonade, and iced tea.
  • Illinois law states that an individual driving on a highway with at least four lanes and at least two lanes proceeding in the same direction is required to change lanes when they are coming upon a disabled vehicle with hazards lights on. (Public Act 99-0681).

At Dershow Law Group, we are looking forward to a positive and productive 2017! If you have any questions regarding changes to these Illinois laws or any other legal matter, please contact the attorney you usually work with at Dershow Law Group or Jeremy Dershow. Happy New Year!

Disclaimer: The information on this website is provided for information purposes only, and should not be construed as legal advice. The transmission of this website and/or communication with Dershow Law Group, P.C. does not constitute or create an attorney-client relationship between Dershow Law Group, P.C. and any recipients.