Sangamon Sun

Illinois is set to make several changes in the upcoming year, affecting various aspects of the state. Starting on January 1, 2024, the minimum wage for non-tipped workers in Illinois will increase from $13.00 per hour to $14.00 per hour. Tipped employees will also see an increase in their minimum wage, from $7.80 per hour to $8.40 per hour. These changes are part of the Illinois Minimum Wage Law, which aims to gradually raise the minimum wage to a "living wage" of $15 per hour by 2025.

Moving on to pensions, the Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability (CGFA) recently released its annual report on the financial conditions of Downstate police and firefighters pension funds. The report revealed that these funds are funded at a level between 59% and 60% of full funding. While this falls short of the ideal funding level, it is still higher than the dire conditions faced by the Chicago police and firefighter pension funds, which are funded at only 22.8% and 20.8% respectively.

In an effort to honor and remember fallen members of the United States armed forces, Illinois has granted status to the Honor and Remember Flag. This flag includes a gold star, symbolizing the sacrifice made by those who lost their lives in combat. A bipartisan bill, SB 1072, designates the Honor and Remember Flag as the symbol of the state's commitment to honoring and remembering fallen service members and their families. The flag will be displayed on various occasions throughout the year, starting from January 1, 2024.

Illinois is also focusing on its energy supply, particularly nuclear power. A new law, Public Act 103-584, has been signed, allowing for the use of small modular reactors in the state. These reactors are seen as a potential future for Illinois' energy supply, especially as coal-fired and natural gas-powered plants near the end of their operating life cycles.

Finally, there have been developments regarding firearms in Illinois. The state has enacted the "Protect Illinois Communities Act," which bans certain firearms and requires owners to register them with the Illinois State Police by December 31, 2023. While many gun owners have not yet registered their firearms, the law remains in effect. Opponents of the law have challenged its constitutionality, arguing that it infringes on Second Amendment rights. However, the U.S. Supreme Court recently declined to grant an injunction against the law, allowing the Illinois State Police registration deadline to remain in place.

These changes in Illinois reflect the state's ongoing efforts to address issues related to jobs, pensions, veterans, energy, and firearms. As the new year approaches, these developments will have a significant impact on various aspects of life in Illinois.

To learn more, click on this link: https://repcoffey.com/2023/12/20/catching-up-with-coffey-22/