ILLINOIS (WAND) – New Illinois laws in 2019 will cover everything from human trafficking to gun regulations.
The state will see 253 new laws become active on Jan. 1. The Illinois Senate Republican Caucus listed several highlights in the changes online. They include:
- Gun-control measures in Senate Bill 3256/PA 100-0606, establishing a 72-hour waiting period for a person buying any type of firearm (more than handguns). House Bill 2354/PA 100-0607 allows family or law enforcement to petition for a firearm restraining order if they believe a person could be a danger to themselves or another person.
- Human trafficking laws in House Bill 4340/PA 100-0671, which grows the list of places where hotline numbers for people to call for help or to report illegal activity must be posted for the public to see. Senate Bill 3108/PA 100-0939 (Trafficking Victims Protection Act) allows trafficking survivors to sue traffickers. Family members and advocates for victims will be able to file a suit on a victim’s behalf. House Bill 2063/PA 100-1037 (Crime Victims Compensation Act) loosens requirements trafficking victims have to meet for compensation and allows more time to report a trafficking crime.
- The Route 66 Centennial Commission, created with House Bill 66/PA 100-0649, which will plan celebrations for Route 66 celebrating its centennial in 2026. A total of 20 people will be part of commission planning.
- Texting and driving law changes that make the act punishable with moving violations that will go on a driver’s record. Three of those violations in 12 months could mean a suspended license. Secretary of State Jesse White spoke in favor the law, saying it “will make our roads safer” and slow down distracted driving.
A detailed list of new Illinois laws can be found at this link.
