3 New Major Illinois Laws Going Into Effect in 2025

A new year generally brings new laws, and 2025 for Illinois is no exception.

Changes Ahead for Illinois in 2025

Today I sat down at the computer and had a shocking revelation...the last day of 2024 is just weeks away...how the heck did that happen?!?

Honestly, I am not generally a new-year-new-start kind of person and don't get excited to flip the calendar on New Years Day.

Is it because I am a pessimist? No. I just hate when the holidays are over, and I get slightly emotional thinking about all the memories my family has made in the last year.

2025 will be a big year of change for the entire United States, but here in Illinois, 2025 will bring several important new laws we all need to be aware of.

Important Laws Going Into Effect in Illinois in 2025

After searching for information about new laws taking effect in Illinois in 2025 I quickly learned many of them center around employment.

I'm not going to sit here and pretend I understand all the legal mumbo jumbo, but here are three new 2025 laws I think everyone needs to know about:

1. Expanded Family and Reproductive Health Protections
Starting January 1, 2025, Illinois employers will be prohibited from discriminating against employees based on family responsibilities or reproductive health decisions. This law aims to support diverse family structure and increase inclusivity in the workplace.

2. Pay Transparency
Effective January 1, 2025, amendments to the Illinois Equal Pay Act require Illinois employers with 15 or more employees to disclose the pay scales and benefits in all job postings. Employers must include the 'good faith' range it expects to offer candidates and amount budgeted for the role.

3. Captive Audience Meeting Restrictions
In 2025 Illinois will begin banning "captive audience meetings" where employees are encouraged (or required) to attend discussions, often about unionizing or political issues.

For a more complete description of these new laws, and more that will begin in January 2025, visit the DLA Piper website.