IL bill #SB1368 • Last Action 07/02/2025

MULTI-COUNTY VET ASSISTANCE

Status: Crossed Over

AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Military Veterans Assistance Act to create a new option for establishing multi-county Veterans Assistance Commissions in judicial circuits with multiple counties that do not currently have a Veterans Assistance Commission. Specifically, for counties within a judicial circuit that lack a Veterans Assistance Commission before January 1, 2026, veteran service organizations can collaborate to create a Jurisdictional Veterans Assistance Commission that will serve veterans and their families across participating counties. Each participating county will be required to levy a minimum tax of 0.02% and deposit the proceeds in the county treasury to fund commission staff and provide financial assistance to veterans. The new commission will select a superintendent from among honorably discharged veterans in the participating counties and maintain a centrally located office (or multiple offices in large judicial circuits). The bill also allows existing Veterans Assistance Commissions in multi-county judicial circuits to merge as of January 1, 2025, while providing the option for some counties to remain independent. The goal is to expand and improve veteran services in areas that currently lack dedicated assistance commissions, ensuring more comprehensive support for veterans and their families across different counties within the same judicial circuit.

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Bill Summary: Amends the Military Veterans Assistance Act. Provides that in counties that did not have a Veterans Assistance Commission prior to January 1, 2026, and in which there exists a judicial circuit whose jurisdictional boundaries include multiple counties, veteran service organizations located within any of those counties that are within the judicial circuit's jurisdictional boundaries may come together and create a Jurisdictional Veterans Assistance Commission that shall provide services to veterans and their families. Contains provisions concerning the selection process for Jurisdictional Veterans Assistance Commission superintendents, delegates, and alternates; funding for Jurisdictional Veterans Assistance Commissions; mergers between existing county Veterans Assistance Commissions and Jurisdictional Veterans Assistance Commissions; and other matters. Provides that nothing in the amendatory Act shall be interpreted to restrict any Jurisdictional Veterans Assistance Commission from providing services to veterans and their families who reside outside of those participating counties. Amends the Counties Code. Permits each county that has a population of less than 3,000,000 and that is a participant in a Jurisdictional Veterans Assistance Commission to levy a tax not to exceed .03% of the assessed value annually on all taxable property of the county for the purpose of providing assistance to military veterans and their families. Amends the Illinois Public Aid Code. Requires a county that has a population of less than 3,000,000 and that is a participant in a Jurisdictional Veterans Assistance Commission to levy, within the time that such levy is authorized to be made, a tax of an amount which, when added to the unobligated balance available for such purpose at the close of the preceding fiscal year, equals .02% of the last known assessed value of the taxable property in the county. Provides that the tax shall be for the purpose of providing assistance to military veterans and their families.

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• Introduced: 01/29/2025
• Added: 01/29/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 18 : Jil Tracy (R)*, Stephanie Kifowit (D)*, Jason Plummer (R), Craig Wilcox (R), Terri Bryant (R), Chris Balkema (R), Andrew Chesney (R), Steve McClure (R), Mike Simmons (D), Li Arellano (R), Mike Porfirio (D), Dan Swanson (R), Wayne Rosenthal (R), Brandun Schweizer (R), Sue Scherer (D), Kyle Moore (R), Kevin Schmidt (R), Amy Briel (D)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 57
• Last Amended: 04/03/2025
• Last Action: Pursuant to Senate Rule 3-9(b) / Referred to Assignments

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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]

IL bill #SB0144 • Last Action 07/02/2025

SCHOOL CODE-CHARTER SCHOOLS

Status: In Committee

AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Illinois School Code to introduce several key provisions regarding charter schools. The bill prohibits granting a charter to any organization that operates a private, parochial, or non-public school or child care facility. It requires charter schools to spend at least 90% of their budget on direct-service costs for students. The bill establishes comprehensive requirements for school transition plans and public meetings in the event of a school action (such as closure), including mandating that the charter school's governing body work collaboratively with local educators and families to ensure successful student integration. For charter school closures, the bill guarantees that all students will receive a seat at a receiving school and all teachers will be guaranteed a job at a receiving school. The legislation requires detailed public notice and hearing procedures, including at least three opportunities for public comment, hearings conducted by an independent hearing officer, and publication of hearing summaries. The bill also includes provisions for supporting students during school transitions, such as providing social and emotional support services, transportation options, and informational briefings about school choices. Additionally, the bill implements a temporary moratorium on school closings, consolidations, and phase-outs until January 15, 2025, while still allowing for non-renewal of charter school contracts upon expiration.

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Bill Summary: Amends the School Code. Provides that for charter schools located in the Chicago school district, if a charter school proposes to close one or more campuses during the term of its contract, then (i) the charter school shall announce the proposal no later than September 1 of the year prior to the effective date of the closure, (ii) the charter school is subject to specified procedures in the Chicago School District Article, and (iii) the school board retains authority to approve or deny the closure. Provides that if the school board approves the closure, the governing body of the charter school shall work collaboratively with the school board, educators, and the families of students attending the campus of the charter school that is the subject of the closure to ensure successful integration of affected students into new learning environments. Provides that affected students who reside in the district shall be guaranteed a seat at a district school. Provides that upon the closing of a charter school located in the Chicago school district, the charter school's licensed teachers shall be guaranteed a similar position for which they are qualified at a district school with full recognition of prior service if they choose to work in the district. Provides that teachers in the closed charter school without an educator license shall be provided a pathway to a short-term license and preference in receiving a job at a district school.

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• Introduced: 01/17/2025
• Added: 01/18/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 6 : Celina Villanueva (D)*, Ram Villivalam (D), Graciela Guzmán (D), Laura Murphy (D), Omar Aquino (D), Javier Cervantes (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 31
• Last Amended: 01/17/2025
• Last Action: Senate Floor Amendment No. 2 Pursuant to Senate Rule 3-9(b) / Referred to Assignments

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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]

IL bill #SB2448 • Last Action 07/02/2025

UNI DIRECT ADMISSION PROGRAM

Status: In Committee

AI-generated Summary: This bill creates the Public University Direct Admission Program Act, which aims to simplify and streamline the college admission process for Illinois high school students and community college transfer students. Beginning with the 2027-2028 academic year, the Board of Higher Education will establish a program that automatically offers general admission to public universities and community colleges for qualified students. Each public university must provide its grade point average admission standards by March 1st annually, and the Illinois Student Assistance Commission will use school district data to identify students who meet these standards. The bill also mandates a preselection outreach campaign specifically targeting high school juniors and seniors to encourage applications to the University of Illinois at Chicago and the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. The program is designed to address barriers to higher education faced by historically underserved students, such as first-generation college students, low-income students, students of color, and students from rural communities. Additionally, the bill requires school districts to provide student directory information, email addresses, and grade point averages to higher education institutions to facilitate communication about educational opportunities. The Board of Higher Education must submit annual reports on the program's implementation, including demographic data and recommendations for improvement.

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Bill Summary: Creates the Public University Direct Admission Program Act. Provides that, beginning with the 2027-2028 academic year, the Board of Higher Education, in collaboration with the Illinois Community College Board, the Illinois Student Assistance Commission, and the State Board of Education, shall establish and administer a direct admission program. Requires each public university in the direct admission program to identify and provide its grade point average standards for general admission for first time admission and for transfer students to the Illinois Student Assistance Commission by March 1 of each year. Provides that, beginning July 1, 2026 and each July 1 thereafter, the Illinois Student Assistance Commission shall use data collected from school districts to determine which students meet the standards for general admission and provide the data to the Board of Higher Education. Provides that, beginning with the 2027-2028 academic year, the Board of Higher Education, in collaboration with the Illinois Student Assistance Commission and the State Board of Education, shall develop, in consultation with the University of Illinois at Chicago and the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, a preselection outreach campaign to encourage qualifying State high school juniors and seniors to apply to the University of Illinois at Chicago or the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Requires the Board of Higher Education to submit a report on the direct admission program and the preselection outreach campaign to the Governor and General Assembly by August 1, 2029 and each August 1 thereafter. Amends the School Code. Requires a school board to provide access to high school student directory information and each student's email address and grade point average to the Illinois Student Assistance Commission, and each public institution of higher education for the purpose of informing students of educational and career opportunities.

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• Introduced: 02/07/2025
• Added: 02/08/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 4 : Christopher Belt (D)*, Mike Simmons (D), Bill Cunningham (D), Rachel Ventura (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 18
• Last Amended: 02/07/2025
• Last Action: Senate Floor Amendment No. 1 Pursuant to Senate Rule 3-9(b) / Referred to Assignments

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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]

IL bill #SB0243 • Last Action 07/02/2025

OMA-SERVICE MEMBER ATTENDANCE

Status: Crossed Over

AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Open Meetings Act to allow members of a public body to attend meetings remotely if they are prevented from physically attending due to active military duty as a service member. Specifically, the bill provides that if a quorum of the public body is physically present, a majority of the members can permit a service member to attend the meeting by video or audio conference. The bill defines "active military duty" by referencing the Service Member Employment and Reemployment Rights Act and defines a "service member" as a resident of Illinois who is a member of any component of the U.S. Armed Forces or National Guard. To use this provision, the service member must notify the public body's recording secretary or clerk before the meeting, and the public body must have rules in place governing such remote attendance. This change aims to provide flexibility for public body members who are serving in the military, allowing them to continue participating in meetings even when their military duties prevent them from being physically present.

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Bill Summary: Amends the Open Meetings Act. Provides that an elected or appointed member of a public body of a township may satisfy specified training requirements of the Act by participating in a course of training sponsored or conducted by an organization that represents townships created under the Township Code. Provides that a public body may not hold or schedule a regular or special meeting on the day of an election. Amends the Freedom of Information Act. Provides that electronic requests for public records must appear in their entirety within the body of the electronic submission and that no public body shall be required to open electronically attached files or hyperlinks to view or access the details of such a request. Allows, within 5 business days after its receipt of the request, a public body that has a reasonable belief that a request was not submitted by a person to require the requester to verify orally or in writing that the requester is a person. Provides that documents that have been determined to be security sensitive under certain requirements related to the U.S. Nuclear Regulation Commission and National Materials Program are exempt from inspection and copying under the Act. Amends the Local Records Act to make a conforming change. Makes other changes. Effective January 1, 2026.

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• Introduced: 01/22/2025
• Added: 01/23/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 13 : Mike Porfirio (D)*, Dan Didech (D)*, Li Arellano (R), Kimberly Lightford (D), Mary Edly-Allen (D), Suzy Glowiak Hilton (D), Stephanie Kifowit (D), Suzanne Ness (D), Terra Costa Howard (D), Martha Deuter (D), Nicolle Grasse (D), Justin Slaughter (D), Jen Gong-Gershowitz (D)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 55
• Last Amended: 04/09/2025
• Last Action: Pursuant to Senate Rule 3-9(b) / Referred to Assignments

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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]

IL bill #HB3438 • Last Action 07/01/2025

TRANSPORTATION-VARIOUS

Status: Crossed Over

AI-generated Summary: This bill makes several changes to transportation-related laws in Illinois. First, it requires the Department of Transportation to develop and implement a life-cycle cost analysis for new road construction, reconstruction, or replacement projects costing over $500,000, with the goal of using materials that have the lowest long-term expenses. Second, it modifies the composition of an advisory committee overseeing a residential sound insulation program related to aircraft noise, specifically stipulating that a Department of Transportation Aeronautics Division employee can only vote to break ties when determining which homes have windows or doors causing offensive odors. Third, the bill changes crash reporting requirements so that all crash reports must be electronically submitted to the Administrator using an approved electronic format, replacing the previous option of using paper forms. The bill will take effect immediately for most provisions, except for the crash reporting changes, which will become effective on January 1, 2027. These modifications aim to improve transportation infrastructure planning, address residential noise mitigation, and modernize crash reporting processes.

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Bill Summary: Amends the Regional Transportation Authority Act. Changes the short title of the Regional Transportation Authority Act to the Northern Illinois Transit Authority Act. Creates the Northern Illinois Transit Authority. Makes changes in provisions concerning: legislative findings; meanings of defined terms; allocation of responsibility for public transportation; strategic planning; capital programming; service planning; performance audits; operational requirements; fares; pedestrian access to transit; extraterritorial powers of the Authority; research and development; protection of the environment; zero-emission buses; enforcement of traffic laws; establishment of the NITA Law Enforcement Task Force; crime prevention programming; the establishment of the Office of Transit Safety and Experience; the establishment of Coordinated Safety Response Councils; safety standards and investments in safety; bus shields; prioritization of capital projects; fast-track project authorization; transit-supportive development; transit ambassadors; and other matters. Changes the short title of the Metropolitan Transit Authority Act to the Chicago Transit Authority Act. Makes changes concerning: the powers and duties of the Chicago Transit Authority and its interactions with the Northern Illinois Transit Authority; governance of the Chicago Transit Authority; and the operating budget of the Chicago Transit Authority. Repeals various provisions. Creates the Sustainable Transit for Northern Illinois Act. Provides that, except in certain circumstances, a unit of local government may not impose or enforce any minimum automobile parking requirements on a development project if the project is located within one-half mile of a public transportation hub. Limits home rule powers. Creates the Electric Vehicle Charging Fee Act. Provides that, beginning on January 1, 2026, a fee is imposed on the privilege of engaging in business as an electric vehicle power provider in this State. Creates the Retail Delivery Climate Impact Fee Act. Provides that, on and after January 1, 2026, a climate impact fee of $1.50 is imposed on each retail delivery that meets specified conditions. Provides that the Department of Transportation shall establish an Interagency Coordinating Committee on Transit Innovation, Integration, and Reform. Amends the Regional Transportation Authority Act. Changes the short title of the Regional Transportation Authority Act to the Northern Illinois Transit Authority Act. Creates the Northern Illinois Transit Authority. Makes changes in provisions concerning: legislative findings; meanings of defined terms; allocation of responsibility for public transportation; strategic planning; capital programming; service planning; performance audits; operational requirements; fares; pedestrian access to transit; extraterritorial powers of the Authority; research and development; protection of the environment; zero-emission buses; enforcement of traffic laws; establishment of the NITA Law Enforcement Task Force; crime prevention programming; the establishment of the Office of Transit Safety and Experience; the establishment of Coordinated Safety Response Councils; safety standards and investments in safety; bus shields; prioritization of capital projects; fast-track project authorization; transit-supportive development; transit ambassadors; and other matters. Changes the short title of the Metropolitan Transit Authority Act to the Chicago Transit Authority Act. Makes changes concerning: the powers and duties of the Chicago Transit Authority and its interactions with the Northern Illinois Transit Authority; governance of the Chicago Transit Authority; and the operating budget of the Chicago Transit Authority. Repeals various provisions. Amends the Department of Transportation Law of the Civil Administrative Code of Illinois. Adds provisions concerning, among other things, the Transit Integration Policy Development Committee and the Transit Coordination Oversight Officer. Amends the Local Mass Transit District Act. Makes changes concerning transit-supportive development and trail-supportive development. Makes conforming and other changes in various other Acts. Effective immediately.

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• Introduced: 02/07/2025
• Added: 02/07/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 22 : Jaime Andrade (D)*, Ram Villivalam (D)*, Marcus Evans (D), Diane Blair-Sherlock (D), Dave Vella (D), Kevin Olickal (D), Natalie Manley (D), Marty Moylan (D), Katie Stuart (D), Dave Koehler (D), Mike Porfirio (D), Celina Villanueva (D), Robert Peters (D), Omar Aquino (D), Adriane Johnson (D), Mike Simmons (D), Mark Walker (D), Graciela Guzmán (D), Mary Edly-Allen (D), Rob Martwick (D), Mattie Hunter (D), Sara Feigenholtz (D)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 77
• Last Amended: 03/25/2025
• Last Action: Rule 19(b) / Re-referred to Rules Committee

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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]

IL bill #HB1468 • Last Action 06/24/2025

PRIVACY-PUBLIC SAFETY/JUSTICE

Status: In Committee

AI-generated Summary: This bill creates the Public Safety and Justice Privacy Act, which provides comprehensive protections for personal information of certain public safety and government officials, including first responders, members of the Illinois General Assembly, prosecutors, public defenders, and probation officers. The bill defines "personal information" and establishes procedures for officials to request that their home addresses and other sensitive personal details be kept private. Specifically, governmental agencies, businesses, and individuals are prohibited from publicly posting an official's personal information if they receive a written request not to do so. The bill mandates that such agencies remove personal information within 5 business days of receiving a request and imposes criminal penalties for knowingly and publicly posting an official's personal information in a way that poses an imminent threat to their health and safety. The legislation makes these protections a Class 3 felony and allows officials to seek injunctive or declaratory relief if their personal information is improperly disclosed. The bill also amends several existing laws to allow officials to use work addresses instead of home addresses on various official documents, such as identification cards and vehicle registrations, further protecting their personal privacy. Importantly, the bill is designed to be broadly interpreted to favor protecting officials' personal information, with specific exemptions for governmental employees acting in good faith during the ordinary course of their work.

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Bill Summary: Creates the Public Safety and Justice Privacy Act. Defines terms. Provides that governmental agencies, persons, businesses, and associations shall not publicly post or display publicly available content that includes a first responder's, member or former member of the Illinois General Assembly's, prosecutor's, public defender's, or probation officer's ("officials") personal information, provided that the governmental agency, person, business, or association has received a written request from the person that it refrain from disclosing the person's personal information. Provides injunctive or declaratory relief if the Act is violated. Includes procedures for a written request. Provides that it is a Class 3 felony for any person to knowingly and publicly post on the Internet the personal information of an official or an official's immediate family under specified circumstances. Excludes criminal penalties for employees of governmental agencies who publish information in good faith during the ordinary course of carrying out public functions. Provides that the Act and any rules adopted to implement the Act shall be construed broadly to favor the protection of the personal information of officials. Amends various Acts and Codes allowing an official to list a business address rather than a home address. Makes conforming changes. Effective immediately.

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• Introduced: 01/21/2025
• Added: 01/21/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 19 : Nicole La Ha (R)*, Tony McCombie (R), Amy Elik (R), Amy Grant (R), Jackie Haas (R), Jennifer Sanalitro (R), Regan Deering (R), Norine Hammond (R), Jeff Keicher (R), C.D. Davidsmeyer (R), Ryan Spain (R), Dan Ugaste (R), Brad Stephens (R), Kevin Schmidt (R), Patrick Sheehan (R), Brandun Schweizer (R), Brad Fritts (R), Mike Coffey (R), Travis Weaver (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 21
• Last Amended: 01/21/2025
• Last Action: Added Co-Sponsor Rep. Travis Weaver

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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]

IL bill #SB2344 • Last Action 06/02/2025

STATEWIDE INNOVATION DEVELOP

Status: In Committee

AI-generated Summary: This bill creates the Statewide Innovation Development and Economy Act (STAR Bond Act), which establishes a mechanism for municipalities and counties to create special economic development districts called STAR bond districts. The bill allows these districts to issue sales tax and revenue (STAR) bonds to finance large-scale tourism, entertainment, retail, and related development projects. Key provisions include limiting the program to one project per Economic Development Region, capping state sales tax increment at $75 million per region, and requiring projects to meet specific economic development criteria such as creating at least 300 new jobs and making a minimum $30 million capital investment. The Office of the Governor, in consultation with the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, will have final approval of STAR bond districts, and projects cannot be located in municipalities with populations over 2 million. The bill includes detailed requirements for establishing districts, approving projects, issuing bonds, and monitoring economic impacts, with a specific focus on creating new job opportunities, stimulating capital investment, and promoting economic development in Illinois. Additionally, the bill mandates a seven-year review of the program by a special committee to assess its economic benefits and potential continuation.

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Bill Summary: Creates the Statewide Innovation Development and Economy Act. Provides that the purpose of the Act is to promote, stimulate, and develop the general and economic welfare of the State of Illinois and its communities and to assist in the development and redevelopment of major tourism, entertainment, retail, and related projects within eligible areas of the State, thereby creating new jobs, stimulating significant capital investment, and promoting the general welfare of the citizens of this State, by authorizing municipalities and counties to issue sales tax and revenue (STAR) bonds for the financing of STAR bond projects and to otherwise exercise the powers and authorities granted to municipalities to provide incentives to create new job opportunities and to promote major tourism, entertainment, retail, and related projects within the State. Provides that the Office of the Governor, in consultation with the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, shall have final approval of all STAR bond districts and STAR bond projects established under this Act, which may be established throughout the 10 Economic Development Regions in the State as established by the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity. Provides that regardless of the number of STAR bond districts established within any Economic Development Region, only one STAR bond project may be approved in each of the 10 Regions, excluding projects located in STAR bond districts established under the Innovation Development and Economy Act. Provides that each STAR bond district in which a STAR bonds project has been approved may only receive 50% of the total development costs up to $75,000,000 in State sales tax increment. Provides that a STAR bond district under the Act may not be located either entirely or partially inside of a municipality with a population in excess of 2,000,000. Effective immediately.

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• Introduced: 02/07/2025
• Added: 02/08/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Steve Stadelman (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 9
• Last Amended: 02/07/2025
• Last Action: Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]

IL bill #SB1965 • Last Action 06/02/2025

OMA-ACCESSIBILITY

Status: In Committee

AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Open Meetings Act to enhance accessibility for electronic training programs. Specifically, it requires the Public Access Counselor to conduct a comprehensive accessibility review of the electronic training curriculum within 30 days of the bill's effective date, ensuring compliance with the Illinois Information Technology Accessibility Act. If any part of the training, including the registration page, is found to be inaccessible, the Public Access Counselor must take steps to bring it into compliance within 30 days, which may include contracting with third-party vendors. Additionally, the bill mandates the establishment of an accessibility helpline within 180 days, which must be available either through live calls 24/7 or with a guaranteed response within 3 calendar days. The helpline's purpose is to assist individuals with disabilities or those who have difficulty independently registering for and completing the electronic training. Helpline operators are required to provide assistance, including remote desktop access with the individual's permission, to ensure that all public body members can successfully complete the required Open Meetings Act training.

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Bill Summary: Amends the Open Meetings Act. In provisions regarding training, requires the Public Access Counselor to complete an accessibility review for electronic training under the Illinois Information Technology Accessibility Act and rules adopted under that Act. Provides for procedures to bring the training into compliance with the Illinois Information Technology Accessibility Act. Requires the establishment of an accessibility helpline, with certain requirements.

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• Introduced: 02/06/2025
• Added: 02/07/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Cristina Castro (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 10
• Last Amended: 02/06/2025
• Last Action: Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]

IL bill #SB2413 • Last Action 06/02/2025

FAMILY & MEDICAL LEAVE PROGRAM

Status: In Committee

AI-generated Summary: This bill creates the Paid Family and Medical Leave Insurance Program Act to establish a comprehensive paid leave system for workers in Illinois. The program will provide eligible employees with up to 18 weeks of paid leave (with an additional 9 weeks possible for pregnancy-related conditions), funded through a payroll premium contribution split between employers and employees (starting at 1.12% of wages, with employees paying 40% and employers paying 60%). Beginning January 1, 2028, employees can take paid leave for various reasons, including caring for a family member with a serious health condition, bonding with a new child, addressing their own serious health condition, reproductive health care, dealing with domestic or sexual violence, and certain military-related exigencies. To be eligible, workers must have earned at least $1,600 during their base period, with benefits calculated at 90% of their average weekly wage, up to a maximum of $1,200 per week. The bill establishes a Division of Paid Family and Medical Leave within the Department of Labor to administer the program, creates a Paid Family and Medical Leave Insurance Program Fund, and provides job protection and other safeguards for workers taking leave. Self-employed individuals may also elect to be covered, and the program includes provisions for employer equivalent plans, penalties for violations, and annual reporting requirements.

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Bill Summary: Creates the Paid Family and Medical Leave Insurance Program Act. Creates the Division of Paid Family and Medical Leave within the Department of Labor. Requires the Division to establish and administer a paid family and medical leave insurance program that provides benefits to employees. Provides that the program shall be administered by the Deputy Director of the Division. Sets forth eligibility requirements for benefits under the Act. Provides that a self-employed individual may elect to be covered under the Act. Contains provisions concerning disqualification from benefits; compensation for leave; the amount and duration of benefits; payments for benefits under the Paid Family and Medical Leave Insurance Program Fund; employer equivalent plans; annual reports by the Department; hearings; penalties; notice; the coordination of leave provided under the Act with leave allowed under the federal Family and Medical Leave Act of 1993, a collective bargaining agreement, or any local county or municipal ordinance; rulemaking; and other matters. Amends the State Finance Act. Creates the Paid Family and Medical Leave Insurance Program Fund. Amends the Freedom of Information Act. Exempts certain documents collected by the Division of Paid Family and Medical Leave from the Act's disclosure requirements. Effective immediately.

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• Introduced: 02/07/2025
• Added: 02/08/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 12 : Ram Villivalam (D)*, Cristina Castro (D), Omar Aquino (D), Rob Martwick (D), Mike Simmons (D), Rachel Ventura (D), Graciela Guzmán (D), Laura Fine (D), Javier Cervantes (D), Karina Villa (D), Adriane Johnson (D), Mike Porfirio (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 21
• Last Amended: 02/07/2025
• Last Action: Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]

IL bill #SB2436 • Last Action 06/02/2025

FOIA-NUCLEAR SECURITY

Status: In Committee

AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to add a new exemption for certain nuclear security-related documents. Specifically, the bill creates an exemption for documents that have been determined to be security sensitive under a 1987 agreement between the State of Illinois and the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), and in accordance with the National Materials Program. These documents include information classified as safeguards, safeguards-modified, and sensitive unclassified nonsafeguards information, as identified in NRC regulatory information summaries, security advisories, and other communications or regulations related to the control and distribution of security-sensitive information. This means that such documents would be exempt from public inspection and copying under the Freedom of Information Act, protecting potentially sensitive nuclear-related information from public disclosure. The exemption is designed to maintain security standards and protect critical nuclear-related documentation from potential misuse or unauthorized access.

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Bill Summary: Amends the Freedom of Information Act. Provides that documents that have been determined to be security sensitive under certain requirements related to the U.S. Nuclear Regulation Commission and National Materials Program are exempt from inspection and copying under the Act.

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• Introduced: 02/07/2025
• Added: 02/08/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Karina Villa (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 10
• Last Amended: 02/07/2025
• Last Action: Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]

IL bill #SB2473 • Last Action 06/02/2025

UTIL-TIME-OF-USE PRICING

Status: In Committee

AI-generated Summary: Here's a summary of the key provisions of this bill: This bill creates the Municipal and Cooperative Electric Utility Planning and Transparency Act, which requires electric cooperatives, municipal power agencies, and municipalities to file integrated resource plans with the Illinois Power Agency. The plans must comprehensively describe the utility's current energy portfolio, forecast future load changes, and outline steps to reduce customer costs and environmental impacts. Key requirements include: 1. Utilities must submit integrated resource plans every three years, starting November 1, 2025, detailing their electricity generation facilities, power purchase agreements, demand-side programs, and transmission resources. 2. Plans must cover a 20-year planning period and include detailed information about existing generation facilities, including location, fuel type, capacity, and expected retirement dates. 3. Utilities must develop a 5-year action plan for meeting forecasted load while minimizing customer costs and environmental impacts. 4. The plans must include a least-cost strategy for constructing or procuring renewable energy resources, with targets of 25% renewable energy by 2026, increasing to 40% by 2030, and 100% renewable energy by 2045. 5. Utilities must hold at least two public stakeholder meetings before submitting their plans, allowing for community input and transparency. 6. The Illinois Power Agency will review the plans, facilitate public comment, and work with utilities to refine their strategies. The bill also includes provisions for cost-of-service studies, independent expert assistance, and enhanced governance and accountability measures for electric cooperatives, including more transparent board elections and financial reporting.

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Bill Summary: Creates the Municipal and Cooperative Electric Utility Planning and Transparency Act. Provides that, by November 1, 2025, and by November 1 every 3 years thereafter, all electric cooperatives with members in the State, municipal power agencies, and municipalities shall file with the Illinois Power Agency an integrated resource plan. Sets forth provisions concerning the plan. Amends the Illinois Power Agency Act. Authorizes the Illinois Power Agency to develop capacity procurement plans and conduct competitive procurement processes for the procurement of capacity needed to ensure environmentally sustainable long-term resource adequacy across the State at the lowest cost over time. Amends the Public Utilities Act. Changes the cumulative persisting annual savings goals for electric utilities that serve less than 3,000,000 retail customers but more than 500,000 retail customers for the years of 2025 through 2030. Provides that the cumulative persisting annual savings goals beyond the year 2030 shall increase by 0.9 (rather than 0.6) percentage points per year. Changes the requirements for submitting proposed plans and funding levels to meet savings goals for an electric utility serving more than 500,000 retail customers (rather than serving less than 3,000,000 retail customers but more than 500,000 retail customers). Provides that an electric utility that has a tariff approved within one year of the amendatory Act shall also offer at least one market-based, time-of-use rate for eligible retail customers that choose to take power and energy supply service from the utility. Sets forth provisions regarding the Illinois Commerce Commission's powers and duties related to residential time-of-use pricing. Provides that each capacity procurement event may include the procurement of capacity through a mix of contracts with different terms and different initial delivery dates. Sets forth the requirements of prepared capacity procurement plans. Requires each alternative electric supplier to make payment to an applicable electric utility for capacity, receive transfers of capacity credits, report capacity credits procured on its behalf to the applicable regional transmission organization, and submit the capacity credits to the applicable regional transmission organization under that regional transmission organization's rules and procedures. Makes other changes. Effective immediately.

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• Introduced: 02/07/2025
• Added: 02/08/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 8 : Bill Cunningham (D)*, Laura Fine (D), Mike Simmons (D), Graciela Guzmán (D), Sara Feigenholtz (D), Mary Edly-Allen (D), Kimberly Lightford (D), Lakesia Collins (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 21
• Last Amended: 02/07/2025
• Last Action: Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]

IL bill #SB0105 • Last Action 06/02/2025

OPEN MEETINGS ACT

Status: In Committee

AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Open Meetings Act to make several key changes regarding public meetings, with a particular focus on Police District Councils in Chicago. For 3-member public bodies, the bill now defines a quorum as 2 members, and allows decisions to be made with the affirmative vote of those 2 members. The bill adds a new provision that allows Police District Councils to hold closed meetings related to public safety concerns, specifically when discussing ongoing law enforcement investigations, misconduct allegations, or topics that could compromise an investigation or individuals' safety. The legislation also updates notice requirements, stipulating that meeting agendas must be posted at a public body's principal office if one exists, and clarifies that for public bodies with websites maintained by full-time staff but without a central office, posting the agenda online satisfies the notice requirement. Additionally, the bill modifies rules for Police District Councils, excluding gatherings of 2 members from the definition of a "meeting" in most circumstances and allowing these councils to conduct meetings via audio or video conference, with some exceptions for regularly scheduled meetings. These changes aim to provide more flexibility for public bodies while maintaining transparency in government operations.

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Bill Summary: Amends the Open Meetings Act. Provides that for a 3-member body, 2 members of the body constitute a quorum, and the affirmative vote of 2 members is necessary to adopt any motion, resolution, or ordinance unless a greater number is otherwise provided. Provides that a Chicago Police District Council may hold a closed meeting involving public safety concerns to discuss (i) an ongoing, prior, or future law enforcement or official misconduct investigation or allegation thereof involving specific individuals or (ii) other topics that if discussed in an open meeting would pose an unreasonable risk to an ongoing criminal investigation or an unreasonable risk to the safety of specific individuals. Provides that an agenda for each regular meeting of a public body must be posted the principal office of the public body if such an office exists. Provides that if a public body has a website that is maintained by its full-time staff but does not have a principal office or single building where meetings are regularly held, that body is deemed to have complied with the requirement to post physical notice at the office or building of the meeting if the notice is timely posted on the public body's website. Excludes from the definition of "meeting" for a Chicago Police District Council a gathering of 2 members, except if gathered for a regularly scheduled meeting or otherwise gathered to adopt any motion, resolution, or ordinance. Provides a Chicago Police District Council may hold meetings by audio or video conference without the physical presence of the members under certain conditions except for required regularly scheduled meetings.

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• Introduced: 01/17/2025
• Added: 01/18/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 3 : Sara Feigenholtz (D)*, Robert Peters (D), Ram Villivalam (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 30
• Last Amended: 01/17/2025
• Last Action: Senate Committee Amendment No. 2 Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]

IL bill #SB1938 • Last Action 06/02/2025

METRO & REGIONAL TRANSIT AUTH

Status: In Committee

AI-generated Summary: This bill creates the Illinois Road Usage Charge Act and makes several significant changes to metropolitan transit authority governance and operations. The bill establishes a Road Usage Charge Advisory Committee to develop and evaluate a statewide pilot program that would assess a user fee on motor vehicle owners based on miles traveled on public roadways. The pilot program, to be implemented by January 1, 2026, will test various technologies for collecting mileage data, ensuring privacy, and evaluating the feasibility of a mileage-based revenue system as an alternative to traditional motor fuel taxes. The program will involve at least 1,000 motor vehicles, analyze different data collection methods, and ensure participant compensation. The Department of Transportation must submit a comprehensive report to the General Assembly within 18 months of the pilot program's implementation. The bill also makes substantial changes to the governance and operations of the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA), Regional Transportation Authority (RTA), and its Service Boards. Key modifications include expanding the Chicago Transit Board from 7 to 8 members beginning February 1, 2026, with specific requirements for board composition, including representation from organized labor, senior advocacy, and disability rights communities. The bill introduces new requirements for fare collection, establishing the RTA as the sole agency responsible for fare collection systems by July 1, 2026, and mandating the development of a universal fare instrument. Additional provisions include creating a Transit Ambassador Program to improve rider experience and safety, establishing an RTA police force, and requiring the RTA to conduct a comprehensive metropolitan region transit plan evaluation by July 1, 2027. The bill also modifies board voting requirements, budgetary processes, and introduces new accountability measures for the RTA and its Service Boards, including regular reporting to the Governor and General Assembly and potential funding reductions for non-compliance. The bill's provisions are complex and wide-ranging, touching on governance, funding, technology, and service delivery for public transportation in the Chicago metropolitan region, with most changes taking effect on February 1, 2026.

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Bill Summary: Creates the Road Usage Charge Act. Establishes the Road Usage Charge Advisory Committee to guide the development and evaluation of the road usage charge pilot program and to assess the potential for mileage-based revenue as an alternative to the current system of taxing highway use through motor fuel taxes. Sets forth the membership and duties of the committee. Requires the Department of Transportation, in consultation with the Secretary of State and based on the recommendations of the Committee, to implement a statewide pilot program by January 1, 2026 to assess a user fee on owners of motor vehicles that is based on the number of miles traveled on public roadways in this State by those vehicles. Amends the Metropolitan Transit Authority Act. Provides that, on and after February 1, 2026, the Chicago Transit Board shall have 8 members (currently 7 members). Makes changes to the number of affirmative votes by Directors required to issue bonds. Amends the Regional Transportation Authority Act. Provides that the Annual Budget and 2-Year Financial Plan must show that the aggregate of all projected fare revenues from fares and charges for mass transportation provided by, or under grant or purchase of service contracts of, the Service Boards received in fiscal years 2026 and 2027 shall equal at least 25%, and in fiscal years 2028 and 2029 and every year thereafter at least 15%, of the aggregate cost of providing such public transportation in those fiscal years. Provides that, beginning July 1, 2026, the Regional Transportation Authority shall be the sole agency responsible for the management and oversight of the fare collection systems used on all public transportation provided by the Service Boards. Makes changes to the membership of the Suburban Bus Board and the Commuter Rail Board. Makes changes to the number of affirmative votes required by the Directors of the Authority to approve decisions regarding the strategic plan, coordination of fares and service, appointment of officers and employees, paratransit services, powers of the Commuter Rail Board, labor, budget, taxes, distribution of revenues, issuing and pledging bonds and notes, budget review powers, the annual capital improvement plan, and rate protection contracts. Makes other changes. Effective January 1, 2026.

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• Introduced: 02/06/2025
• Added: 02/07/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Ram Villivalam (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 20
• Last Amended: 02/06/2025
• Last Action: Senate Committee Amendment No. 1 Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]

IL bill #SB2483 • Last Action 06/02/2025

AFN COMMITTEE TELECONFERENCE

Status: In Committee

AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Illinois Emergency Management Agency Act to modify the meeting procedures for the Access and Functional Needs (AFN) Advisory Committee. Specifically, the bill allows committee members to attend meetings remotely via video or audio conference, with all remotely attending members counting toward the meeting's quorum, while still requiring at least one member to be physically present at the publicly posted meeting location. The bill maintains the committee's existing responsibilities, which include coordinating meetings at least three times per year, researching and recommending strategies for supporting people with disabilities during emergencies, and providing annual reports to the General Assembly, Governor's Office, and Illinois Emergency Management Agency. The Advisory Committee is composed of representatives from various state agencies and appointed members from the disability community, first responders, and local emergency management agencies. By exempting the committee from the traditional Open Meetings Act requirement of physical quorum presence, the bill provides more flexibility for committee members to participate in meetings, potentially improving accessibility and participation for members who may have mobility challenges or geographic constraints.

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Bill Summary: Amends the Illinois Emergency Management Agency Act. In provisions regarding the Access and Functional Needs Advisory Committee, provides that the Advisory Committee shall comply with all provisions of the Open Meetings Act except that the Advisory Committee is exempt from the provisions that specifically require a quorum of members of a public body to be physically present at the location of an open meeting. Allows Advisory Committee members to attend meetings of the Access and Functional Needs Advisory Committee remotely by video or audio conference with all attending members counting toward a quorum, provided there is at least one member in physical attendance at the publicly posted physical location of the meeting.

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• Introduced: 02/07/2025
• Added: 02/08/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Laura Fine (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 10
• Last Amended: 02/07/2025
• Last Action: Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]

IL bill #SB1706 • Last Action 06/02/2025

OMA-POLICE OFFICERS PENSION

Status: In Committee

AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Open Meetings Act to specifically exempt committees of the Police Officers' Pension Investment Fund from the requirement that a quorum (the minimum number of members needed to conduct official business) must be physically present at a meeting location. Currently, the law generally requires public bodies to have members physically present at meetings, with some exceptions for certain types of government entities with large jurisdictional areas. By adding language about the Police Officers' Pension Investment Fund committees, the bill allows these specific committees to hold meetings where members can participate remotely without needing to be physically in the same location, as long as they provide appropriate public notice and access. This change provides more flexibility for these pension-related committees to conduct their business, potentially making scheduling and participation easier for committee members.

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Bill Summary: Amends the Open Meetings Act. Provides that the requirement that a quorum be physically present at the location of an open meeting does not apply to committees of the Police Officers' Pension Investment Fund.

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• Introduced: 02/05/2025
• Added: 02/06/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Bill Cunningham (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 10
• Last Amended: 02/05/2025
• Last Action: Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]

IL bill #SB0005 • Last Action 06/02/2025

METROPOLITAN MOBILITY AUTH ACT

Status: In Committee

AI-generated Summary: This bill creates the Metropolitan Mobility Authority Act, which consolidates and reorganizes public transportation services in the Chicago metropolitan region. Here is a summary of the key provisions: This bill establishes the Metropolitan Mobility Authority (MMA) by consolidating the Chicago Transit Authority, the Commuter Rail Division, the Suburban Bus Division, and the Regional Transportation Authority into a single regional transit agency. The new authority will be governed by a board of directors appointed by the Governor, Mayor of Chicago, Cook County Board President, and county board chairs of DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry, and Will counties. The board will include both voting and non-voting members, with requirements for diverse expertise and geographic representation. The MMA will have broad powers to provide, coordinate, and improve public transportation services in the metropolitan region, including: - Developing and implementing transit service standards - Purchasing transportation services from various providers - Setting fares and transit policies - Implementing fare capping and income-based reduced fare programs - Acquiring and managing transportation facilities and equipment - Providing paratransit services - Promoting transit-oriented development - Establishing safety and security programs - Conducting research and development of transportation technologies The bill creates several new funds and programs, including: - A City-Suburban Mobility Innovations Program to support local mobility services - A Transit-Supportive Development Incentive Program to encourage transit-friendly development - An Office of Equitable Transit-Oriented Development to support affordable housing near transit The legislation also establishes robust accountability measures, including: - Regular performance audits - Transparency requirements - A citizen advisory board - Performance-based compensation for executives - Detailed reporting on transit services and finances The bill aims to improve the efficiency, equity, and financial sustainability of public transportation in the Chicago metropolitan region by creating a more integrated and responsive transit authority.

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Bill Summary: Creates the Metropolitan Mobility Authority Act. Establishes the Metropolitan Mobility Authority. Provides that the Chicago Transit Authority, the Commuter Rail Division and the Suburban Bus Division of the Regional Transportation Authority, and the Regional Transportation Authority are consolidated into the Metropolitan Mobility Authority and the Service Boards are abolished. Creates the Suburban Bus Operating Division, Commuter Rail Operating Division, and the Chicago Transit Operating Division. Reinserts, reorganizes, and changes some provisions from the Metropolitan Transit Authority Act and the Regional Transportation Authority Act into the new Act. Includes provisions concerning the operation of the Metropolitan Mobility Authority. Repeals the Metropolitan Transit Authority Act and the Regional Transportation Authority Act. Amends various Acts, Laws, and Codes to make conforming changes. Creates the Equitable Transit-Supportive Development Act. Establishes the Office of Equitable Transit-Oriented Development and the Transit-Supportive Development Fund. Provides that the Office and the Fund are to aid transit-supportive development near high-quality transit by providing specified funding to municipalities that have adopted the standards in the transit support overlay district for that area or that have adopted zoning and other changes that the Office determines have benefits greater than or equal to such a District, including transit support overlay districts. Includes provisions relating to Office standards, procedures, and reports. Amends the State Finance Act to make a conforming change. Amends the Department of Transportation Law of the Civil Administrative Code. Requires the Department to establish, staff, and support an Office of Public Transportation Support for the purpose of optimizing the operation of public transportation vehicles and the delivery of public transportation services on highways under the Department's jurisdiction in the Metropolitan Mobility Authority's metropolitan region. Describes the duties and operations of the Office. Amends the Toll Highway Act. Provides that the Chair of the Metropolitan Mobility Authority is a nonvoting member of the Illinois State Toll Highway Authority.

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• Introduced: 01/13/2025
• Added: 01/14/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 12 : Ram Villivalam (D)*, Omar Aquino (D), Mike Simmons (D), Adriane Johnson (D), Graciela Guzmán (D), Robert Peters (D), Laura Fine (D), Rob Martwick (D), Sara Feigenholtz (D), Mary Edly-Allen (D), Kimberly Lightford (D), Willie Preston (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 22
• Last Amended: 01/13/2025
• Last Action: Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]

IL bill #SB1576 • Last Action 06/02/2025

I VOTED STICKER CONTEST

Status: In Committee

AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes the "I Voted" Sticker Commission to develop and manage a statewide contest for creating new voting stickers to be used in the 2026 General Election. The Commission will consist of 22 members, including representatives from various state government offices and leadership positions, who will serve without compensation. The Commission's key responsibilities include creating guidelines for the sticker design contest, establishing a public website for submissions and voting, engaging in a public awareness campaign, and selecting up to 50 initial submissions that engage voters. By July 1, 2026, the Commission will conduct a public survey to choose 10 final sticker designs that will be used by election authorities across Illinois. The process will involve creating an online platform where residents can submit and vote on designs, with a particular emphasis on incorporating input from children and young people. The Commission is required to submit a detailed report to the General Assembly by February 2, 2026, describing the submissions and selection process. The entire initiative is set to be repealed on January 1, 2027, and the State Board of Elections will provide administrative support throughout the contest.

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Bill Summary: Amends the Election Code. Creates the "I Voted" Sticker Commission. Provides that the purposes of the Commission are to develop guidelines for the "I Voted" Sticker Contest and to select sticker designs to be used by election authorities in the State for the 2026 General Election. Provides that the Commission shall establish a process for the submission of proposed designs for the "I Voted" Sticker Contest and guidelines for the assessment of those proposed designs. Provides that, on or before July 1, 2026, the Commission shall conduct a public survey to select the 10 designs that will be used by election authorities in the State for the 2026 General Election. Sets forth provisions concerning membership; terms; compensation; and administrative support. Effective immediately.

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• Introduced: 02/04/2025
• Added: 02/05/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Doris Turner (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 16
• Last Amended: 02/04/2025
• Last Action: Senate Committee Amendment No. 1 Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]

IL bill #SB1665 • Last Action 06/02/2025

FOIA-PRELIMINARY DRAFT-STUDY

Status: In Committee

AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to modify exemptions related to draft documents and studies. Specifically, the bill adds a new provision that allows for the exemption of studies, drafts, notes, recommendations, memoranda, and other records containing opinions or policy formulations. However, this exemption is not absolute: if a draft record has remained in draft form for more than 12 months and was funded by public dollars from a local government unit, it can no longer be kept confidential. This change aims to increase transparency by preventing government entities from indefinitely keeping draft documents secret, while still protecting preliminary work products during the active development stage. The modification is part of Illinois' ongoing efforts to balance government transparency with the need for agencies to develop and refine policy recommendations without premature public scrutiny.

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Bill Summary: Amends the Freedom of Information Act. Exempts from disclosure any studies, drafts, notes, recommendations, memoranda, and other records in which opinions are expressed, or policies or actions are formulated, except that a specific record or relevant portion of a record is not exempt if the record has remained in draft form for more than a 12-month period and public dollars were spent by a unit of local government to conduct such a study.

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• Introduced: 02/05/2025
• Added: 02/06/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Rob Martwick (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 10
• Last Amended: 02/05/2025
• Last Action: Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]

IL bill #SB2327 • Last Action 06/02/2025

DCFS-CULTURAL OMBUDSMAN

Status: In Committee

AI-generated Summary: This bill creates the Office of Independent Cultural Ombudsman within the Department of Children and Family Services to secure the rights of youth and families involved with the department. The Ombudsman will be appointed by the Governor with Senate approval for a 4-year term, with the first term expiring February 1, 2028. The Ombudsman must be over 21, have a bachelor's or advanced degree, and possess expertise in the department's operations, investigations, civil rights advocacy, and cultural awareness. The office will have broad powers to review department operations, investigate complaints, advocate for youth, inspect facilities, and provide confidential assistance to youth and families. The Ombudsman will be required to submit an annual report to the General Assembly and Governor detailing the office's activities, including aggregated data about investigations and systemic recommendations. The bill establishes strict conflict of interest rules for the Ombudsman and deputies, prohibits retaliation against those who file complaints, and mandates that the department provide full access and cooperation to the Ombudsman. Importantly, the Ombudsman cannot investigate criminal behavior but must refer such cases to appropriate authorities. The office will maintain confidentiality of complaints and complainants, with records protected from public disclosure except by court order.

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Bill Summary: Amends the Children and Family Services Act. Provides that the purpose of the amendatory Act is to create within the Department of Children and Family Services the Office of Independent Cultural Ombudsman for the purpose of securing the rights of youth and families that are subject to investigation, collaboration, or other correspondence with the Department of Children and Family Services. Provides that the Governor shall appoint the Independent Cultural Ombudsman with the advice and consent of the Senate for a term of 4 years, with the first term expiring February 1, 2028. Permits the Ombudsman to employ deputies and other support staff as deemed necessary. Sets forth the academic and age requirements for the Ombudsman and deputies. Contains provisions concerning conflicts of interest; Ombudsman duties and powers; Department duties; Ombudsman reporting requirements; complaints made to the Ombudsman by or on behalf of youth and families that concern Department operations or staff; the confidentiality of records; and Ombudsman promotion efforts aimed at raising awareness of the Office of Independent Cultural Ombudsman. Effective immediately.

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• Introduced: 02/07/2025
• Added: 02/08/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Ram Villivalam (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 9
• Last Amended: 02/07/2025
• Last Action: Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]

IL bill #SB1489 • Last Action 06/02/2025

FOIA-CRIM JUSTICE AGENCY

Status: In Committee

AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to expand an existing exemption for law enforcement records in shared electronic record management systems. Specifically, the bill modifies the exemption to allow a criminal justice agency, in addition to a law enforcement agency, to withhold a record from disclosure if three conditions are met: (1) the agency receiving the request did not create the original record, (2) the agency did not participate in or have a role in the events described in the record, and (3) the agency only has access to the record through a shared electronic record management system. This change broadens the types of agencies that can claim this exemption, potentially making it easier for criminal justice agencies to protect certain sensitive law enforcement records from public disclosure. The amendment aims to provide additional privacy protections for records that an agency has minimal involvement with and has accessed only through a shared electronic system.

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Bill Summary: Amends the Freedom of Information Act. Exempts from inspection and copying a law enforcement record created for law enforcement purposes and contained in a shared electronic record management system if the law enforcement agency or criminal justice agency (rather than only the law enforcement agency) that is the recipient of the request did not create the record, did not participate in or have a role in any of the events which are the subject of the record, and only has access to the record through the shared electronic record management system.

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• Introduced: 01/31/2025
• Added: 02/01/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Mary Edly-Allen (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 10
• Last Amended: 01/31/2025
• Last Action: Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]

IL bill #SB2166 • Last Action 06/02/2025

OPEN MTGS-ATTENDANCE

Status: In Committee

AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Open Meetings Act to expand the circumstances under which members of a public body can attend meetings remotely. Currently, members can attend meetings by video or audio conference if they are unable to be physically present due to personal illness, disability, employment purposes, business of the public body, family emergencies, or unexpected childcare obligations. The bill adds a new provision allowing attendance by other means for "any other reason" as designated in rules adopted by the public body. The bill requires that a quorum of members must still be physically present, and the member seeking to attend remotely must notify the recording secretary or clerk before the meeting unless advance notice is impractical. The public body must adopt rules that specify the conditions and extent of remote attendance, which may include additional notice requirements or ways to facilitate public access. The bill maintains existing provisions for extraordinary circumstances, such as during a declared public health disaster, where meetings can be conducted entirely remotely under specific conditions like ensuring public access to discussions and conducting roll call votes. This change provides public bodies with more flexibility in managing meeting attendance while maintaining transparency and public participation.

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Bill Summary: Amends the Open Meetings Act. Allows attendance by a means other than physical presence under certain circumstances if a member of a public body is prevented from physically attending because of any reason designated in rules adopted by the public body in accordance with certain provisions in the Act.

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• Introduced: 02/07/2025
• Added: 02/08/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Suzy Glowiak Hilton (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 10
• Last Amended: 02/07/2025
• Last Action: Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]

IL bill #HB2970 • Last Action 06/02/2025

SCH CD-REMOVE/DISMISS TEACHERS

Status: Crossed Over

AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Illinois School Code to modify the process for issuing and handling remedial warnings for teachers. Specifically, the bill allows teachers to grieve the issuance of a remedial warning through their collective bargaining agreement to determine if the school board had just cause for issuing the warning. The bill requires that notices of remedial warnings must narrowly specify the exact nature of the alleged misconduct that needs to be remedied, and general allegations of unprofessional conduct are insufficient to link unrelated offenses. The bill also limits the duration of remedial warnings, stipulating that under no circumstances can a remedial warning remain effective for longer than 4 years from its issuance. Furthermore, the school district is required to make reasonable efforts to remove the warning from the teacher's personnel file after the 4-year period or sooner if agreed upon through the exclusive bargaining representative. These changes aim to provide more clarity, specificity, and time limitations on remedial warnings issued to teachers, potentially offering teachers more protection against vague or long-standing disciplinary notices.

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Bill Summary: Amends the School Code. Allows a teacher to grieve the issuance of a warning regarding causes that are considered remediable pursuant to the applicable collective bargaining agreement to determine whether the school district had just cause in issuing the warning. Requires notice of remedial warnings to be narrowly specify the nature of the alleged misconduct that needs to be remedied. Provides that general allegations of unprofessional conduct are insufficient to link together otherwise unrelated offenses as related. Provides that under no circumstances shall a notice of remedial warning remain effective or within a teacher's personnel file or record for longer than 3 years from the date of the occurrence which gave rise to the issuance of the notice of remedial warning. Effective immediately.

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• Introduced: 02/06/2025
• Added: 02/06/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 18 : Anna Moeller (D)*, Celina Villanueva (D)*, Sue Scherer (D), Aarón Ortíz (D), Gregg Johnson (D), Laura Faver Dias (D), Robyn Gabel (D), Hoan Huynh (D), Kelly Cassidy (D), Carol Ammons (D), Michael Crawford (D), Joyce Mason (D), Mary Beth Canty (D), Norma Hernandez (D), Stephanie Kifowit (D), Rita Mayfield (D), Thaddeus Jones (D), Lisa Hernandez (D)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 66
• Last Amended: 04/11/2025
• Last Action: Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]

IL bill #SB1632 • Last Action 06/02/2025

OPEN MTGS-LICENSING BOARDS

Status: In Committee

AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Open Meetings Act to expand the circumstances under which licensing boards authorized by the Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (DFPR) can hold meetings with members participating through interactive video conference. Specifically, the bill allows these licensing boards to hold open meetings simultaneously at multiple locations within public buildings, with members at each location counting towards the meeting's quorum. The bill requires that public notice and access be provided for all meeting locations. Previously, most public bodies were required to have a quorum physically present at the meeting location, with only a few specific types of organizations (such as statewide bodies or those covering large geographic areas) exempt from this requirement. By adding licensing boards to this list, the bill provides more flexibility for these professional regulatory boards to conduct meetings, potentially making it easier for board members to participate remotely while still maintaining transparency through public notice and access requirements. The term "public building" is defined in the bill as any building or portion of a building owned or leased by a public body.

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Bill Summary: Amends the Open Meetings Act. Provides that if an open meeting of a public body that is a licensing board authorized by the Department of Financial and Professional Regulation is held simultaneously at one of its offices and one or more other locations in a public building, which may include other of its offices, through an interactive video conference and the public body provides public notice and public access as required under the Act for all locations, then members physically present in those locations all count towards determining a quorum.

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• Introduced: 02/04/2025
• Added: 02/05/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Dave Koehler (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 10
• Last Amended: 02/04/2025
• Last Action: Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]

IL bill #SB2169 • Last Action 06/02/2025

FOIA-CLOSED MTG MINUTES

Status: In Committee

AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to modify the process for filing lawsuits when a public body denies access to certain meeting records. Specifically, the bill introduces a new requirement that if a requester wants to sue for access to minutes or a verbatim record of a closed meeting that have not been previously available for public inspection, they must wait 60 days after either (1) the public body receives the request or (2) the Public Access Counselor issues a binding or non-binding opinion, whichever occurs later. This waiting period is intended to allow time for review of the requested records under the Open Meetings Act. The change aims to provide public bodies with an opportunity to review and potentially release requested documents before litigation begins, potentially reducing unnecessary legal proceedings and giving agencies a chance to resolve access disputes internally. The bill preserves the existing framework of FOIA that allows individuals to challenge denials of public records, but adds this procedural step specifically for meeting minutes from closed sessions.

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Bill Summary: Amends the Freedom of Information Act. Provides that, if the denial of a request includes a request for minutes or a verbatim record of a meeting of the public body closed to the public as provided in the Open Meetings Act that have not been previously made available for public inspection, suit may be filed under a specified provision only after a 60-day period following (i) the receipt of the request by the public body or (ii) the issuance of a binding or non-binding opinion from the Public Access Counselor, whichever is later, to allow for review of the requested records as provided under the Open Meetings Act.

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• Introduced: 02/07/2025
• Added: 02/08/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Suzy Glowiak Hilton (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 10
• Last Amended: 02/07/2025
• Last Action: Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]

IL bill #SB0241 • Last Action 06/02/2025

EPA-RENEWABLE FUELS PROGRAM

Status: In Committee

AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes the Renewable Fuels Infrastructure Program (RFI Program) to support the expansion of renewable fuel infrastructure in Illinois. The Department of Agriculture will administer the program, creating a Renewable Fuels Infrastructure Fund that will receive $3 million per quarter from the Underground Storage Tank Fund (subject to certain balance restrictions) from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2027. The program will provide grants to petroleum marketers, terminal operators, and other eligible companies to help them modify and install equipment for storing and dispensing higher blends of ethanol (greater than E-10) and biodiesel (greater than B-10). Grant recipients are limited to a maximum of $1 million in total funding, with no single site receiving more than $100,000, and must cover at least 50% of the equipment installation costs. The bill also creates a Renewable Fuels Infrastructure Task Force composed of 10 members from petroleum industry and agricultural associations who will provide annual feedback on the program's effectiveness. Eligible expenditures include tank modifications, tanks, piping, fuel dispensers, and other equipment deemed necessary by the Department of Agriculture. Importantly, no public bodies are eligible to receive funding under this program.

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Bill Summary: Amends the Environmental Protection Act. Creates the Renewable Fuels Infrastructure program. Provides that the Department of Agriculture shall provide grants to petroleum marketers, petroleum terminal operators, and any other companies that the Department of Agriculture determines are eligible for grant funding. Provides that eligible expenditures include tank modifications, tanks, piping, and fuel dispensers. Provides that an eligible grant recipient shall not receive more than $1,000,000 in grant funding. Provides that no funding under the program shall be made available to a public body. Creates the Renewable Fuels Infrastructure Fund as a special fund in the State treasury. Provides that, from July 1, 2024 to June 30, 2026, the Comptroller shall order transferred, and the Treasurer shall transfer, $3,000,000 each calendar quarter from the Underground Storage Tank Fund to the Renewable Fuel Infrastructure Fund, unless the Underground Storage Tank Fund has a balance at or below $75,000,000. Creates the Renewable Fuels Infrastructure Task Force. Sets forth membership and duties of the Task Force. Amends the State Finance Act to make conforming changes. Effective immediately.

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• Introduced: 01/22/2025
• Added: 01/23/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 10 : Mike Halpin (D)*, Willie Preston (D), Christopher Belt (D), Mike Porfirio (D), Dave Koehler (D), Patrick Joyce (D), Ram Villivalam (D), Mary Edly-Allen (D), Steve McClure (R), Andrew Chesney (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 23
• Last Amended: 01/22/2025
• Last Action: Senate Committee Amendment No. 1 Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]

IL bill #HB0586 • Last Action 05/31/2025

GOVERNMENT-TECH

Status: In Committee

AI-generated Summary: I apologize, but the provided XML document does not contain the specific text changes to the Open Meetings Act that would allow me to provide a detailed summary of the bill's provisions. The bill appears to be very brief and primarily refers to making a technical change to Section 1.01 of the Open Meetings Act, but the actual text of the change is not present in the provided XML. Based on the government-provided summary, this bill would make a minor technical modification to the short title section of the Open Meetings Act, but without seeing the exact language being changed, I cannot provide a more specific explanation of the bill's contents.

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Bill Summary: Amends the Open Meetings Act. Makes a technical change in a Section concerning the short title.

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• Introduced: 01/08/2025
• Added: 01/08/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Chris Welch (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 11
• Last Amended: 01/08/2025
• Last Action: Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee

Show Additional Details

Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]

IL bill #HB0588 • Last Action 05/31/2025

GOVERNMENT-TECH

Status: In Committee

AI-generated Summary: I apologize, but there seems to be insufficient content in the provided XML to meaningfully summarize the bill. While the government summary indicates the bill makes a technical change to the Open Meetings Act's short title section (Section 1.01), the actual text of the amendment is not visible in the XML fragment. Without seeing the specific language being inserted or deleted, I cannot provide a detailed summary. The most I can confidently say is: This bill proposes a technical amendment to Section 1.01 of the Illinois Open Meetings Act, likely involving a minor modification to the law's short title or language.

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Bill Summary: Amends the Open Meetings Act. Makes a technical change in a Section concerning the short title.

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• Introduced: 01/08/2025
• Added: 01/08/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Chris Welch (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 11
• Last Amended: 01/08/2025
• Last Action: Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee

Show Additional Details

Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]

IL bill #HB0585 • Last Action 05/31/2025

GOVERNMENT-TECH

Status: In Committee

AI-generated Summary: I apologize, but I cannot provide a detailed summary of the bill's provisions because the XML content does not include the specific text changes being proposed. While the government summary indicates this bill makes a technical change to the Open Meetings Act's short title section, the XML fragment provided is empty. Without seeing the actual language being inserted or removed, I can only offer a very general summary: This bill proposes a technical amendment to Section 1.01 of the Open Meetings Act, likely making a minor modification to the section's language or terminology. To provide a more substantive summary, I would need to see the specific text changes being proposed.

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Bill Summary: Amends the Open Meetings Act. Makes a technical change in a Section concerning the short title.

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• Introduced: 01/08/2025
• Added: 01/08/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Chris Welch (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 11
• Last Amended: 01/08/2025
• Last Action: Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee

Show Additional Details

Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]

IL bill #HB0584 • Last Action 05/31/2025

GOVERNMENT-TECH

Status: In Committee

AI-generated Summary: This bill makes a technical amendment to the Open Meetings Act, specifically modifying Section 1.01, which appears to be the short title section of the Act. While the specific details of the change are not visible in the provided XML, the government summary suggests this is a minor, procedural modification to the law's language. The Open Meetings Act is a typical state-level legislation that requires governmental bodies to conduct their meetings openly and provide public access to discussions and decision-making processes. Without more context from the XML fragment, the precise nature of the technical change cannot be determined, but such amendments are often made to clarify legal terminology, correct grammatical errors, or ensure precise statutory language.

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Bill Summary: Amends the Open Meetings Act. Makes a technical change in a Section concerning the short title.

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• Introduced: 01/08/2025
• Added: 01/08/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Chris Welch (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 11
• Last Amended: 01/08/2025
• Last Action: Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee

Show Additional Details

Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]

IL bill #HB0587 • Last Action 05/31/2025

GOVERNMENT-TECH

Status: In Committee

AI-generated Summary: This bill makes a technical amendment to the Open Meetings Act, specifically modifying Section 1.01. However, the provided XML fragment does not include the actual text of the changes, so I cannot provide specific details about the modification. The bill appears to be a minor adjustment to the law's language, likely addressing a small technical detail in the Act's short title section. Without more context or the specific text being changed, I can only offer this general description based on the government-provided summary.

Show Summary (AI-generated)

Bill Summary: Amends the Open Meetings Act. Makes a technical change in a Section concerning the short title.

Show Bill Summary

• Introduced: 01/08/2025
• Added: 01/08/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Chris Welch (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 11
• Last Amended: 01/08/2025
• Last Action: Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee

Show Additional Details

Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]

IL bill #SB0298 • Last Action 05/30/2025

FIREARM OWNERS ID ACT-REPEAL

Status: In Committee

AI-generated Summary: This bill repeals the Firearm Owners Identification Card Act and amends numerous other Illinois statutes to remove references to the Act. The bill essentially eliminates the requirement for a Firearm Owner's Identification Card (FOID) in Illinois and updates multiple sections of state law to reflect this change. Key modifications include removing FOID-related language from various statutes governing law enforcement, criminal procedures, domestic violence protections, and other areas where firearm ownership was previously regulated by the FOID Card system. The bill replaces references to the FOID Card with broader language about firearm possession eligibility under state and federal law. Additionally, the legislation updates definitions of firearms and makes technical changes to ensure consistency across different sections of Illinois law after the elimination of the FOID Card requirement. The bill takes effect immediately upon becoming law, signaling a significant change in how firearm ownership is regulated in the state.

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Bill Summary: Repeals the Firearm Owners Identification Card Act. Amends various Acts to make conforming changes. Effective immediately.

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• Introduced: 01/24/2025
• Added: 01/25/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 4 : Neil Anderson (R)*, Dave Syverson (R), Chris Balkema (R), Terri Bryant (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 6
• Last Amended: 01/24/2025
• Last Action: Added as Co-Sponsor Sen. Terri Bryant