PUBLIC POLICY CONNECTION
January 8, 2021
New Year, New Laws 2021

Due to the shortened Spring Session and canceled Veto Session as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, just three new laws went into effect at the turn of the year. They are:

  • HB 2708- This law creates a process for using DNA to attempt to identify and locate a missing person.
  • HB 2818- This law creates the mechanism for victims of stalking or sexual assault to keep their address confidential.
  • SB 0667- This law creates price caps for insulin for many in-state insurance providers.

Additionally, please note that Illinois’ minimum wage increased to $11 on January 1, 2021. 
IMPORTANT NOTICE: There is a resolution circulating to place a referendum on the April 6 ballot with a question for the voters to eliminate the recorder’s office and combine it into the Clerk’s office. It is our understanding that this referendum cannot occur on the April ballot and that it should not be permitted until the general election in 2022. While the chamber currently does not have a position on this proposed consolidation, we believe it is important to inform the members that this resolution is in circulation. We encourage members who have thoughts on this proposed consolidation to log in to the Virtual County Board Meeting of the Whole on Tuesday, January 12, at 6:30 pm. The Zoom instructions can be found here.
COVID-19 Related News

C-UPHD announces vaccinations now available for Champaign County residents 75 years of age and older.

Lawmakers call for changes regarding Illinois Department of Employment Security, unemployment claim issues.

A new proposal would allow state lawmakers to meet and vote virtually in emergency situations. 

Pritzker released updated guidelines for Phase 1B of vaccinations in Illinois.

University of Illinois’ COVID-19 saliva test moves closer to FDA approval.


In Other News
AP sources: House Democrats to introduce articles of impeachment.

How the attack on the U.S. Capitol unfolded.

Biden selects Judge Merrick Garland for attorney general.

Senator Andy Manar announces resignation, will join Governor Pritzker's administration.

US Representative Mary Miller facing criticism for invoking Hitler during speech in Washington.

Champaign County Clerk Aaron Ammons will reduce polling locations ahead of spring elections.

Newly elected Champaign County Board member resigning to work for new treasurer.
DISCLAIMER: Our Daily Updates and Public Policy Newsletters provide resources in the form of linked news articles so one can learn about happenings at the local, state, and federal level. We do not editorialize. We share headlines from reputable news sources so that you, the reader, can quickly determine what articles are of interest to you. With such a diverse membership and readership, we understand that not all articles will be favorably viewed. Should a reader find a headline or content as concerning, we encourage you to reach out to the Chamber and express your concern. The headlines and content are not our own unless it is specifically designated as such. Thank you.