July 1 marks the implementation of a new budget and over a dozen new state laws in Illinois. One notable law makes permanent the pandemic-era allowance for restaurants and bars to sell cocktails and mixed drinks for pickup or delivery. This law, Senate Bill 618, aims to support local businesses that were impacted by the pandemic.
New State Agency
The new Department of Early Childhood will officially launch on July 1, consolidating various early childhood services under one roof. This agency will oversee and fund preschools, childcare centers, home visiting, and early intervention programs. Governor JB Pritzker has appointed Teresa Ramos to direct the agency, which will receive $2.1 billion from the General Revenue Fund in fiscal year 2027.
Another law, House Bill 3851, addresses the issue of cyberbullying in Illinois schools. This law considers posting unauthorized artificial intelligence images, including sexual images, as a form of cyberbullying. Creating sexual images of children can also be charged under the state’s child pornography laws.
The Department of Corrections will now be required to report more information about contraband in its facilities, including data on what contraband is found, where it was discovered, and any disciplinary action taken. Additionally, the department will have to report on medical responses and hospitalizations for staff members.
A new Office of State Public Defender will also be established, with an 11-member commission appointed by October 1 to identify the costs and funding sources for the office.
Original reporting: Block Club Chicago — read the source article.
