New Illinois Laws You Should Know About That Go into Effect in 2020

 Posted on December 27,2019 in Criminal Law

With only days left in this year and decade, the new year is upon us. As usually happens on the first of the year, there are a number of changes to the law that will go into effect in 2020. In fact, the state of Illinois has more than 250 new laws that are set to begin. From regulations for vaccinating pet cats to gender-neutral restrooms and changes to criminal laws, there are a wide variety of topics covered. While some laws only make minor adjustments, others carry some of the biggest changes that the state of Illinois has seen in years. Here are a few of the new laws that will be going into effect in 2020:

Recreational Marijuana Will Be Legal

For decades, marijuana was illegal throughout the country, and possession was punished harshly. January 1, 2020 marks the first day that it will be legal to purchase and consume recreational marijuana in the state of Illinois. Adults who are over the age of 21 will be permitted to purchase a variety of cannabis products, such as dry flower, edibles, tinctures, and creams. Minors under the age of 21 may still be penalized for purchasing or using recreational marijuana, and those who attempt to sell cannabis without a valid license may also face drug charges.

Medical Cannabis Will Be Permitted in Schools

If a child is a registered patient in the Medical Cannabis Pilot Program, he or she will now be able to have his or her medication administered during school by a nurse. Previously, only a parent or guardian was permitted to give the child his or her medical marijuana, but that posed issues, because many parents were unable to be at school with their child to administer the medication. Now, a school nurse or administrator is allowed to give the child the medication.

The Statute of Limitations Will Be Lifted From Certain Crimes

Beginning in 2020, the statute of limitations will be lifted for various violent crimes, including criminal sexual assault, aggravated criminal sexual assault, and aggravated criminal sexual abuse, no matter the age of the victim. The statute of limitations will also be lifted for prosecuting female genital mutilation. 

Fines Increase For Violating Certain Traffic Laws

Illinois drivers will face larger fines for breaking certain traffic laws. Drivers who pass a stopped school bus will see fines doubled from $150 to $300 for a first offense and from $500 to $1,000 for a second offense. Similarly, fines for violating Scott’s Law, commonly known as the “move over” law, will increase to $250 for a first offense and $750 for second or subsequent violations. 

Contact a Rolling Meadows, IL Criminal Defense Attorney 

New laws commonly go into effect at the beginning of the year, which is why Illinoisians are seeing so many upcoming changes. Scott F. Anderson, Attorney at Law knows how easy it is to violate a law without even knowing about it. If you are facing criminal charges for any type of alleged activity, you need help from our skilled Arlington Heights criminal defense lawyer. To schedule a free consultation, call our office today at 847-253-3400.

Sources:

https://news.wttw.com/2019/12/17/20-new-illinois-laws-know-2020

https://wqad.com/2019/12/11/new-illinois-laws-2020-weed-minimum-wage-and-more/

https://www.thetelegraph.com/news/article/More-than-250-new-laws-take-effect-Jan-1-in-14893285.php