Illinois is gearing up for significant changes in the new year, with nearly 300 new laws set to take effect on January 1, 2025. Among these, notable policies include salary transparency, digital driver's licenses, and a ban on "junk" health insurance[2]. The state's minimum wage will also rise to $15, completing a ramp-up initiated by Governor JB Pritzker in 2019.

In recent news, the Federal Trade Commission and the Illinois Attorney General announced a major law enforcement action on December 17, 2024, though details of the action have not been disclosed[1]. This joint effort underscores the state's commitment to consumer protection and regulatory enforcement.

On the health front, the Illinois Department of Public Health reported an uptick in seasonal illnesses, with hospital admissions for COVID-19, flu, and RSV increasing. The department urges residents to use proven tools to protect those vulnerable to severe outcomes, especially during the holiday season[5].

In environmental news, the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency issued an Air Pollution Action Day in June 2024 due to elevated ground-level ozone levels in the Chicago metropolitan area. This highlights the ongoing challenges in managing air quality in the state[3].

Looking Ahead:
- The implementation of nearly 300 new laws on January 1, 2025, will bring significant changes to various aspects of life in Illinois.
- The state's ongoing efforts to manage seasonal illnesses and protect public health will continue to be a focus in the coming months.
- Environmental initiatives and air quality management will remain critical issues for the state in 2025.

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI