While most of Illinois’ new laws take effect at the beginning of the calendar year, other pieces of legislation hit the books at the year’s midpoint, and such is the case on July 1. In fact, at least nine laws will at least partially go into effect at the start of the new month, and several could have impacts on area new-car dealerships.

• HB 3882 - Driver's Licenses for Undocumented Immigrants. Beginning July 1, undocumented immigrants living in the state of Illinois will be permitted to obtain driver’s licenses in a move that officials argue will help decrease stigmas and increase safety on area roadways. According to the text of the bill, individuals seeking a license must pass a driving test, have valid car insurance, be able to present identification documents for purposes of obtaining the license, and must be able to prove at least one year of residency within the state of Illinois.
• HB 1122 – The Freelance Worker Protection Act. Enhanced protections in Illinois for freelance workers will also go into effect on July 1. Primarily, the bill obligates companies to pay freelance workers on or before the date their contractually agreed payments are due. If contracts do not specify a date for payment, then compensation is due no later than 30 days after the completion of work, according to the text of the bill. The bill also enhances protections for freelance workers against threats, intimidation, discipline, harassment and discrimination, and codifies ways of reporting violations of the act to the Illinois Department of Labor.

Other Changes Coming July 1

Beginning July 1, Chicago's hourly minimum wage will go from $15.80 to $16.20 per hour for companies with 21 or more employees. For those with 20 or fewer employees, minimum wage will rise to $16.20.

Chicago workers will also be eligible for two types of paid leave beginning on July 1, with all employees who work at least 80 hours within a 120-day period eligible for up to five days of paid leave and five days of paid sick leave.