The state of Illinois is manifesting a significant change for its minimum wage workers as the hourly rate will rise to $15 starting January 1, 2025. This increment represents the final step in legislation passed back in 2019, which was led by State Senate Majority Leader Kimberly Lightford (D-Maywood), gradually pushing the state towards this landmark wage increase. "The $15 minimum wage is a testament to our commitment to economic justice and our belief that everyone who works full time deserves a living wage," Lightford said in a statement obtained by WGN-TV.
The adjustment to the minimum wage is set to impact nearly 1.4 million adult workers in Illinois, boasting an average annual increase of $6,000 in their earnings. Lightford highlighted that this move aimed to essentially reduce financial stress and foster a more stable future for countless workers. Moreover, the Illinois Economic Policy Institute cited by the release claims the new minimum wage will lift over 200,000 workers out of poverty and is expected to generate an extra $380 million in state tax revenues yearly. Alongside the increase for adult workers, the youth minimum wage will also rise to $13 per hour on January 1.
Turning to other legislation, beginning January 1, a plethora of new laws will take effect across Illinois that touch on various aspects of daily life, according to FOX 32. Among these are pay transparency measures requiring larger employers to disclose pay scales in job postings, a prohibition on misleading advertising by e-cigarette companies, and new requirements designed to make it harder to buy or sell stolen catalytic converters.
Healthcare also sees advancements with new legislation coming into force. For instance, certain health plans starting in 2026 will have to cover colonoscopy procedures, while caps are being placed on the cost of epinephrine injectors. Plans will also be required to cover brand-name prescription drugs when a generic alternative isn't available. Meanwhile, the fight against cancer sees mandates for clinical genetic testing coverage for those with a familial history of the disease. These laws have been established to gradually ease into effect, to not unduly put strain on the system at once, or the people they are meant to benefit.
Other changes coming to Illinois with the new year involve technological offerings such as mobile IDs, improvements for driver safety around O'Hare Airport, and fee waivers for building permits pertaining to home improvements for disabled veterans. Moreover, the state will see enhancements in police training around autism, as well as modifications in landlord-tenant relations, securing the latter against potential retaliation. These legislative actions depict a broader vision of Illinois' commitment not just to economic upliftment but also to social inclusion and justice.
