Assistant Editor Jerry Lindsey submitted this article.
The 2020 COVID-19 pandemic shortened the spring session in Springfield, IL, but several laws that were passed went into effect on Friday, January 1, 2021.
Minimum Wage Increase Low wage earners will receive a $1 per hour increase, which is the third increase in the past 12 months. A $1 increase will be awarded each year through 2025, to reach the legal 2025 minimum wage of $15 per hour.
Insulin Price Limit Effective January 1, insulin users’ cost will be limited to $100 for a 30-day supply, regardless of how much insulin is needed to fill a prescription.
Two-Year Vehicle Registration Motor vehicle registration now will be for a two-year period, versus the previous annual charge. Registration costs will remain the same on a per year basis, but with a two-year expiration.
Other legislation effective on January 1 included
- aids to improving Missing Person identification details, by utilizing the Missing Person National Identification System
- securing confidentiality of addresses of domestic abuse violence victims, to include victims of sexual assault and stalking.