Illinois State Representative Dan Caulkins (R-Decatur) is informing Illinois residents that an assortment of new laws will be taking effect on January 1st, 2023. Several new laws to take effect sponsored by Caulkins include items that honor military personnel, affirm Illinois’ economic potential, and support Illinois high school graduates.
According to Rep. Caulkins, “Every two years the people of Illinois send Representatives to Springfield tasking them with the responsibility to find creative solutions for problems of public policy facing our State. The laws that I’ve supported this year demonstrate that I have fulfilled this responsibility. I eagerly look ahead to 2023 and the opportunity to continue my record of supporting creative legislation that improves the lives of everyone that calls Illinois home.”
Caulkins-sponsored laws to take effect January 1st:
SUPPORTING ILLINOISANS IN THE MILITARY
Public Act 102-1083 and Public Act 102-796 are two Caulkins sponsored laws that honor our military personnel. The former provides that when any Illinois resident dies while on State Active Duty, their next of kin or respective designee shall be presented with an Illinois State flag to honor their loss. The latter provides that the Secretary of State shall issue Gold Star license plates to any Illinois resident who is a surviving immediate relative of the service member who lost his or her life while in the U.S Armed Forces.
Caulkins said: “Illinoisans that serve in the military are deserving of high praise. However, an even higher praise is reserved for those that sacrifice their life in service to our country. I am proud to have sponsored these laws that rightly honor the military members and families who make the ultimate sacrifice.”
INDUSTRIAL BIOTECHNOLOGY PUBLIC-PRIVATE PARTNERSHIP
Public Act 102-0991 affirms Illinois’ economic potential by establishing the Industrial Biotechnology Public-Private Partnership. The State-sponsored board is tasked with promoting and marketing Illinois as a destination for research, development, and commercialization for industrial biotechnology.
HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA EQUIVALENCY
Public Act 102-1100 supports high school graduates seeking to further their employment opportunities by recognizing that – for purposes of reciprocity – a State of Illinois High School Diploma and a high school equivalency certificate from another State are equivalent.
Caulkins-supported laws taking effect January 1st:
IMPROVING SAFETY OF CHILDEREN IN STATE CARE
Public Act 102-795 improves the safety of children under state care while they use transportation services. Under the law, all drivers are required to take a fingerprint-based criminal background check and receive training on the installation and operation of child car seats. Drivers must also have an adequate driving record and possess a valid driver’s license, proof of insurance, and a properly maintained vehicle. Furthermore, the transportation agency is required to share specific information for communication during the scheduled transport to make sure a child always has a ride home.
Caulkins said “Nothing is more important than standing up for those who can’t stand up for themselves. The children that are in the care of the state are already vulnerable and this law protects them from the unpredictable outcomes on Illinois roadways. I am pleased to support Illinois’ children by supporting this law.”
MAKING APPRENTICESHIPS MORE AVAILABLE
Public Act 102-803 makes apprenticeship programs more accessible through the creation of a 5-year pilot program designed to provide subsidies for individuals participating in a registered apprenticeship program, pre-apprenticeship program or work-based learning program. These subsidies can be used to pay for important needs like transportation, child care, housing, education, mental health services, substance abuse services, and more.
REDUCING CERVICAL CANCER AND SAVING LIVES ACT
Public Act 102-1018 under this law, hospitals or other medical facilities must write a report regarding results from any cervical cancer screening services provided to the patient, and an easily understandable summary of these results must be sent to the patient. For people who meet certain requirements and are enrolled in the Breast and Cervical Cancer Program, they can receive an HPV vaccine through an established pilot program.
PRENATAL INSURANCE COVERAGE
Public Act 102-930 is a new law requiring insurance plans that include prescription drug coverage to also include coverage for prenatal vitamins when they are prescribed by a physician or a licensed advanced practice registered nurse.
SWEET CORN APPRECIATION DAY
Public Act 102-1068 makes August 1 of each year Sweet Corn Appreciation Day to recognize and celebrate the importance of sweet corn, and family farmers, to Illinois agriculture.
For a full list of new laws, click here.