Legislative Watch

A proposed modification of the Illinois eavesdropping law would ease restrictions on every citizen with a smartphone and allow them to record the actions of police, but the possible changes are being met with criticism. The existing law, struck down by the Illinois Supreme Court earlier this […]

Another attempt to tax sugary drinks is expected in the upcoming Illinois legislative session. Drinks like soda and even some juice have been linked to obesity, diabetes and other problems. http://northernpublicradio.org/post/illinois-legislature-attempts-sugary-drink-tax-again

Commonwealth Edison and Ameren Illinois can avoid legislative oversight until 2019 and continue to spend ratepayer money on building a digital “smart grid” as a result of Illinois Senate action. The Senate voted 40-4 with two abstentions to approve a measure that would extend by two years […]

Two Illinois lawmakers are calling for legislation to be considered during a special session this week that would combine the offices of the state comptroller and treasurer. Republican Sen. Matt Murphy and Democratic Sen. Kwame Raoul filed legislation merging the two offices in 2013. http://www.wrex.com/story/27769902/2015/01/06/illinois-senators-promote-legislation-combining-offices

Illinois became the latest state to criminalize “revenge porn,” crafting what its creators hope will become a model for federal legislation. Gov. Pat Quinn on Monday signed a measure making the “non-consensual dissemination of private sexual images” a felony offense in Illinois. The new “revenge porn” law […]

Illinois became the latest state to criminalize “revenge porn,” crafting what its creators hope will become a model for federal legislation. Gov. Pat Quinn on Monday signed a measure making the “non-consensual dissemination of private sexual images” a felony offense in Illinois. The new “revenge porn” law […]

As Illinoisans begin a new year, they face 220 new laws that took effect on Jan. 1, approved by lawmakers and Gov. Pat Quinn. The highlights cover various issues, from transportation to wild animals. http://www.nwherald.com/2014/12/30/2015-brings-new-illinois-laws-covering-speed-limits-medical-marijuana-boating-and-more/aclo3ys/

SPRINGFIELD, Ill., Dec. 3 (UPI) — The Illinois House of Representatives on Wednesday passed a bill that would make the voter registration process easier during a time when other states are coming under fire for tightening restrictions on voting. Read more: http://www.upi.com/Top_News/US/2014/12/03/Illinois-House-approves-same-day-voter-registration/5611417634904/#ixzz3LQM8Eh21

SPRINGFIELD — There won’t be a vote on a statewide minimum wage increase under the current Illinois General Assembly this year or next, but the push continues. The current General Assembly has officially adjourned. That means there will be no “lame duck” session of the current General Assembly […]

On Wednesday Dec. 3, the Illinois General Assembly passed the state’s Secure Choice (Work & Save) Retirement Savings bill. The bill is now on its way to be signed by Gov. Pat Quinn, D, who supports the measure. Illinois’ Secure Choice will be the first state law […]