New Laws for 2014

NEW LAWS FOR 2014

On January 1, 2014, more than 200 new laws went in to effect.  They range from a ban on underage tanning, to more serious laws, like the legalization of medical marijuana.  The Tedrick Group will highlight a few of these laws during the month of January.  For a more complete list click here.

70 MPH SPEED LIMIT TAKES EFFECT

Illinois’ speed limit is now in line with most of the country. Senate Bill 2356 increases the maximum speed limit to 70 miles per hour (mph) on most interstates and toll highways.

At the request of the Illinois State Police, Senate Bill 2356 also lowers the threshold to increase the penalty for speeding from a petty offense to a misdemeanor. Speeding in excess of 26 miles per hour but less than 35 mph (currently 31-40 mph) will be a Class B misdemeanor. Speeding in excess of 35 mph (currently 40 mph) will be a Class A misdemeanor.

DISTRACTED DRIVING: CELL PHONE BAN

On the road, Illinois drivers will have to use hands-free technology to talk on cell phones. Otherwise, they’ll have to pull off the road to make a call.

Violators of the law will be fined $75 for a first offense. Fines of as much as $150 could be issued for repeat offenses as well as facing a moving violation on their driving record. Drivers are still allowed to make calls in an emergency.

Penalties will also increase for drivers who injure or kill others in crashes caused by the use of a cell phone or other electronic device.

FIREARM CONCEALED CARRY ACT 

Illinois became the final U.S. state to pass a concealed carry law on July 9, 2013  This law requires an Illinois Concealed Carry License to carry a concealed firearm.

Applicants are required to take 16 hours of concealed carry firearms training provided by an Illinois State Police-approved instructor, have a valid Firearm Owners Identification card and Illinois digital ID, Richard Pearson, executive director of the Illinois State Rifle Association, said.

Under the new law, most government buildings and schools will not be allowed concealed weapons on the property, but in the case for private buildings or businesses it is up to the individuals’ choice.

Concurrently, the law clearly states a resident will not be allowed to open carry at any time. A handgun carried on or about a person must be concealed from view of the public.

TO BE CONTINUED...

Check back next Thursday, January 23rd as we highlight more new laws of 2014.