Additional frequently asked questions about COVID-19 and wages, benefits, and layoffs are available on IDOLs website. HB 2553 establishes the Protecting Household Privacy Act, which forbids law enforcement agencies from obtaining data collected, stored or shared by household electronic devices without a warrant, a court order, the permission of the owner or in an emergency situation. CANNABIS IDENTIFICATION CARDS Suspends the requirement that a medical or adult use cannabis cultivation center agent must have a completed background check when applying for an agent identification card. BBB shares top scams of 2022 . The Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2023 extended many of the telehealth flexibilities authorized during the COVID-19 public health emergency through December 31, 2024. IN-PERSON LEARNING All public and nonpublic schools in Illinois serving pre-kindergarten through 12th grade students may open for in-person learning after the regular 2019-2020 school term. The employer should discuss the request with the employee to determine whether the requested accommodation, or another accommodation, can be provided. Outlines vaccine and testing requirements for healthcare workers, school personnel, higher education, and state-owned or operated congregate living facilities. On Tuesday, Gov. Laid off employees who previously had employer-provided health insurance may continue their coverage under the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA). K-12 SCHOOLS All public and private K-12 schools must close for educational purposes; however, this will not affect the availability of school buildings to supply food for students in need. If you are a worker who received a Form 1099 and are not certain if you are eligible for PUA, you should file a claim for regular unemployment benefits for two reasons. This year, the minimum wage will increase to $12 per hour. CANNABIS APPLICATIONS The deadline for cannabis grower, infuser and transporter license applications is extended, and applicants are now allowed to mail completed applications, rather than submitting in person. Illinois' COVID-19 Response. The order expands the use of available emergency relief dollars for Illinois utility customers currently at risk of service disconnections following the end of the winter moratorium, and maximizes the number of households eligible for relief. Guidance For Employers and Employees on Workers' Rights and Safety, What Expect When Getting Vaccinated Guidance, Long-term care Frequently Asked Questions, Guidance for Pre-K-12 Schools and Day Care Programs for Addressing COVID-19, Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children, Long Term Care COVID-19 Facility Level Data, Governor Pritzker's Executive Orders and Rules, Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome Children, Guidance on the Use of Masks by the General Public, Private Laboratory COVID-19 Testing Options for Illinois Long-term Care Facilities, Long-Term Care COVID-19 Testing Requirements, Modifications for Other Long-Term Care Facilities and Programs, https://www2.illinois.gov/dceo/Pages/default.aspx, https://www2.illinois.gov/idol/Laws-Rules/safety/Pages/Hazards.aspx, https://www2.illinois.gov/dhr/AboutUs/Pages/contact_IDHR.aspx, https://www2.illinois.gov/idol/Pages/contact.aspx. The new guidance supplements earlier guidance regarding the treatment of workers with caregiving responsibilities. Here are 50 of the more notable pieces of legislation that will take effect in the new year. Additional resources and frequently asked questions about COVID-19 and civil rights protections under the IHRA are available on IDHRs website. The following measures are not currently legal requirements, but steps employers are encouraged to take to promote a healthy work environment and to limit the spread of COVID- 19. The Illinois Wage Payment and Collection Act requires that, after separation from employment, employees must be paid all final compensation, including bonus payments, vacation pay, wages and commissions on their next regularly scheduled payday. As Illinois continues through the Restore Illinois plan and regional mitigation measures, employers and employees1are navigating difficult questions about how to maintain a safe and healthy workplace during the COVID-19 pandemic. STAY AT HOME All individuals must stay at home, with exceptions for essential activities, essential government functions, and essential businesses and operations. Outlines public health requirements for individuals, businesses, retail stores, manufacturers, office buildings, restaurants and bars, gyms, personal service facilities, youth sports, and public amusement. REGIONS 3 MITIGATIONS Region 3, West-Central Illinois, has reported three consecutive days of a test positivity rate of 8 percent or higher. Minimum wage increases Many states have moved in recent years to increase their minimum wage requirements.. For the third year in a row, low-wage workers are getting a raise as the calendar turns to 2022. Working from home may be a reasonable accommodation under some circumstances. Such an agreement or contract would violate public policy, as expressed in public health and occupational safety laws, and would not be enforceable against the employee. Additionally, employers should conduct temperature and/or symptom screenings of all employees prior to their entry to the workplace. HB 03445: A person who seeks medical assistance for an opioid overdose will have immunity from prosecution for possession. Once areas used by the person who is sick have been appropriately disinfected, they can be opened for use. Copyright 2023 NBCUniversal Media, LLC. IDPH filed emergency rulemakings currently in effect related to the COVID-19 pandemic for the following Parts, all of which became effective February 14, 2022 for a maximum of 150 days: Hospital Licensing Requirements, 77 Ill. Adm. Code 250 Statutory Authority: Hospital Licensing Act [210 ILCS 85] CHICAGO (AP) Four years ago, Paul Vallas finished toward the bottom of the pack in a crowded race for Chicago mayor. This Executive Order supplements the Community Revitalization Order, Executive Order 43. More information on the use of face coverings is available on the Illinois Department of Human Rights website. All rights reserved, CTA Continues Efforts to Adapt Electric Buses to Winter's Challenges, 7 Cubs Pitchers Combine for No-Hitter Vs. Padres, The Lifting Up Illinois Working Families Act, New Ranking Names Most Expensive Cities In Illinois and These Chicago Suburbs Top the List, Stomach Bug Cases Surging, Sending People to Emergency Rooms in Chicago Area, Chicago Suburb Lands on List of Happiest Places to Live,' Another Midwest City Makes Top 10, Chicago-Area Counties Under Winter Storm Advisories and Warnings. Illinois reports 2,762 new COVID-19 cases, 4 new deaths. REISSUES EXECUTIVE ORDERS Reissues Executive Orders 2020-03 through 2020-31, extending most provisions through May 29, 2020. Rescinds Executive Order 2020-13. (Employees should be aware that they may have to cover their portion of the health insurance expense that is typically deducted from their pay.). The Stalking/No Contact Order law in Illinois has been amended to include a prohibition on contact made via email or social media. Under the latter bill, feminine hygiene products will now be available for free at homeless shelters that provide housing assistance to women and youth. Paul.Cicchini@illinois.gov New Laws Taking Effect in 2022 Impact Employers, Employees SPRINGFIELD - As we prepare for the new year, employers and employees should be aware of new laws taking effect January 1st, as well as those already in effect due to action by the General Assembly and signature of Governor JB Pritzker. READ MORE: Jelani Day's family looking for answers after missing ISU student found dead. The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) and Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) have also published guidelines and requirements for employers to follow in order to maintain a safe workplace during the pandemic. The order aligns with the latest CDC guidance and rescinds emergency rules requiring face masks for fully vaccinated individuals. This Executive Order supplements the Community Revitalization Order, Executive Order 43. It shall not be construed to apply to domestic support obligations or relieving a debtor of any liability. If you are concerned that your employer is not adhering to the required state COVID-19 workplace safety guidelines, you may contact the Workplace Rights Bureau of the Office of the Illinois Attorney General at (844) 740-5076 or workplacerights@atg.state.il.us Governor Pritzker Announces New Partnership Between Illinois Universities and the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative. STAY AT HOME ORDER EXTENSION An extension of the states disaster proclamation, requiring individuals to stay at home or their place of residence for an additional 30 days. Applying for and being denied benefits under the regular unemployment insurance program is the first step to establishing eligibility under PUA. J.B. Pritzker's COVID-19 disaster declaration last year, Madigan opted to convene the Illinois House for a just single four-day emergency session. Employees who believe that they have been retaliated against for opposing unlawful discrimination can file or amend a charge using the, The federal Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 protects private sector employees who raise safety and health concerns with their employer or a government agency. . If an employee tests positive for COVID- 19, their employer should inform other employees in the workplace who may have been exposed. REGION 5 MITIGATIONS Region 5 has reported three consecutive days of a test positivity rate of 8 percent or higher. ISP will now have a public database of all guns reported stolen that can be checked prior to the transfer of any firearm to prevent inadvertent transfers of stolen weapons. Employers should not assume that an older employee, or an employee with an underlying health condition, is in need of special protection or accommodation. IDES will backdate claims to the first week of unemployment due to the COVID-19-related reason. Applying for and being denied benefits under the regular program is the first step in establishing eligibility under the new temporary program. However, the positivity rate has continued to increase, and Region 1 currently has the highest in the State at nearly 12 percent. According to both Democratic and Republican lawmakers, the laws include everything from excused mental. All schools must follow IDPH and ISBE health guidelines, including using PPE, temperature checks, hygienic practices, social distancing, and limiting people to 50 or fewer in one space. Requires face coverings for all Illinois residents over age 2 in indoor settings beginning Monday, August 30, 2021. SB 01600: Requires restaurants and truck stops to provide employees with training in the recognition of human trafficking, and protocols for reporting observed human trafficking to proper authorities. The raise in minimum wage is part of legislation Illinois. HB 168 amends the Humane Care for Animals Act by allowing judges to order that a person be forbidden from owning or having possession of any other animal if they have been convicted of any two of the following three crimes: animals for entertainment, dog fighting or aggravated cruelty. Law enforcement officers can also seize tobacco products or electronic cigarettes that violate the bills prohibition on marketing to children. Does not limit the free exercise of religion, and indoor services must not exceed more than 10 people. SB 00512: The Preventing Youth Vaping Act aims to prevent vaping by children, placing additional restrictions on e-cigarettes, including imposing additional civil and criminal penalties. REISSUES EXECUTIVE ORDERS - Reissues several executive orders, extending a majority of the provisions through April 30, 2022. In response, public health restrictions and mitigations are implemented for Region 5, comprised of Marion, Jefferson, Wayne, Edwards, Wabash, Perry, Jackson, Franklin, Williamson, Saline, Hamilton, White, Gallatin, Union, Johnson, Pope, Hardin, Alexander, Massac, and Pulaski counties, for restaurants and bars, meetings and social events, gaming and casinos and for all workplaces, effective October 22, 2020. SB 00139: Allows a person currently married to request a copy of their marriage license with the term spouse rather than any gender-identifying language. SB 01673: Changes the Animal Control Act to remove the terms spayed and neutered and replace them with the word sterilized.. His new campaign message, concentrated on citizens' safety and support for the police . Requires schools to exclude students and school personnel who are confirmed cases, probable cases, or close contacts. In order to promote their use, employers should make face coverings and other protective equipment available at no charge to employees. The cash bail provision became a hallmark campaign issue in the race of Illinois governor and state attorney general. State law prohibits an employer from requiring an employee to pay for the cost of medical examinations or records that the employer requires as a condition (or precondition) of employment. REISSUES EXECUTIVE ORDERS - Reissues several executive orders, extending a majority of the provisions through December 11, 2021. Employees in these settings who are unable or unwilling to receive the vaccine will be required to get tested for COVID-19 at least once per week. The bill also adds Muhammad Ali's birthday, Jan. 17, as the law's eighth commemorative holiday. SB 1879 amends the Fish and Aquatic Life Code to ban fishing for carp, catfish, buffalo, suckers, gar, bowfin, shad and drum with a pitchfork, spear gun, bow and arrow, slingshot bow, spear or gig on or across from any public right of way or highway in the state. Under the federal Occupation Safety and Health Act of 1970, employees who believe they are in imminent danger may refuse to work if certain conditions are met. REGIONS 7 AND 8 MITIGATIONS Both Regions 7 and 8 have reported three consecutive days of a test positivity rate of 8 percent or higher. SB 01682: Requires pharmacies to post a notice informing consumers that they may request current pharmacy retail prices at the point of sale. For further information or to contact the Illinois Department of Employment Security, visit: https://www2.illinois.gov/ides/aboutides/Pages/Contact_IDES.aspx. ILLINOIS DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS (IDOC) Suspends the allowable time period for furloughs and the phrase for a period of time not to exceed 14 days. The phrase to obtain medical, psychiatric or psychological services when adequate services are not otherwise available shall be suspended and furloughs for medical, psychiatric or psychological purposes shall be allowed. ", Related: Another Watchdog Vacancy Means Complaints Against Lawmakers Won't Be Addressed. Suspends requiring internships for endorsements on professional educator licenses. After a 2019 law, the state minimum wage in Illinois increases to $12 an hour on Jan. 1, 2022. ESSENTIAL HUMAN SERVICES OPERATIONS Individuals may leave their residence to work for or obtain any Human Services Operations, such as adoption agencies, long-term care facilities, residential settings for individuals with disabilities and day care centers for children of essential employees. Alert Message: Anyone, 6 months of age and older, is eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. Alongside SAFE-T Act and Workers Rights Amendment, new Illinois laws address latex allergies, carjackings, miscarriages and more. IDOL will require all state and local public employers in Illinois to comply with ETS sections (d)- (l). REISSUES EXECUTIVE ORDERS - Reissues several executive orders, extending a majority of the provisions through October 16, 2021. Defines essential businesses and operations. Suspends specific provisions in the Hospital Licensing Act, the Hospital Report Card Act, the Department of Public Health Powers and Duties Law, the Illinois Adverse Health Care Events Reporting Law of 2005, and the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Systems Act. Then, in January, after a group of 19 Democratic state representatives refused to support Madigan's bid for a 19th term as speaker, House Democrats picked Hillside state Rep. Chris Welch to succeed him. Executive Order 2020-43 , the Community Revitalization Order, remains in effect. Business can continue with employees working from home. When applying for benefits, an individual must report any paid leave to which they are entitled. Reissues previous Executive Orders related to the COVID-19 pandemic through January 6, 2023. The two-week extension allows for hospitals and schools to implement their own testing, vaccine and accountability protocols. HB 562, dubbed the "FOID Modernization Act," offers automatic gun license renewals for applicants who submit fingerprints, allows state agencies to share existing fingerprint databases, increases background check requirements for private gun transfers, allows for the development of future electronic gun license, establishes a stolen gun database and a new state police FOID revocation enforcement fund, among other things. Yes. If an employee believes they have been fired, demoted, or harassed because they are being treated for, or recovering from, COVID- 19, they may file a charge with IDHR. Therefore, Executive Order 51 and Executive Order 54 are rescinded and Region 4 can return to Phase 4 of the Restore Illinois Plan. Generally, individuals currently receiving paid leave are not eligible for unemployment insurance. VARIOUS PROVISIONS Suspends the date of each townships annual meeting for calendar year 2020. Have new flu-like symptoms including fever, cough, or shortness of breath (excluding such symptoms caused by chronic conditions); . 265, 268 and 42 C.F.R. In the Health Care Worker Background Check Act, suspends the time period for designated students, applicants, and employees to have their fingerprints collected electronically. All schools shall make remote instruction available. The process for filing a charge of discrimination, harassment, or retaliation can be started by completing a Complainant Information Sheet (CIS) and forwarding it to IDHR by email, fax, or mail. All workplace safety policies, including required face coverings, must be applied and enforced equally for all employees in the workplace, except for those employees who have informed the employer of a medical condition or disability that prevents them from safely wearing a face covering. Additional frequently asked questions about COVID-19 and unemployment insurance are available on the IDES website. The bill was passed following media attention on a decision by administrators of Providence St. Mel School on Chicago's West Side to enforce a dress code banning braids and other hairstyles associated with African Americans on the law's 4-year-old namesake. More information on unpaid wages and the wage claim process is available on the Illinois Department of Labors (IDOL) website. It's a new year and nearly 200 new laws go into effect here in Illinois. Also suspends the requirement that the Department must approve or deny an application for a medical or adult use cannabis cultivation center agent identification card within a certain amount of days. Federal and Illinois law require employers to maintain a safe and healthy workplace. CIVIL PROCEDURE Suspends sections in the Illinois Code of Civil Procedure that permit the service of a garnishment summons, wage deduction summons, or a citation to discover assets on a consumer debtor or consumer garnishee. (COVID-19 EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. Unsigned applications for public assistance received by mail can be signed by a verbal attestation by telephone. The following are recommended prevention strategies that recognize that while the state of Illinois has made substantial progress in . Jelani Day's family looking for answers after missing ISU student found dead, went into effect in 2021 and applies to schools. This Executive Order supplements the Community Revitalization Order, Executive Order 43. SB 00471: Requires insurers who issue or deliver group accident and health policies to ensure that insured individuals have access to treatment for emotional, mental, nervous or substance use disorders or conditions. The IHRA and federal law prohibit an employer from treating employees differently based on their age or an actual or perceived disability. Health Care Workers Individuals who are certified as a nurse assistant, but are currently inactive on the Health Care Worker Registry, may be hired under certain provisions, such as the inactive status being no more than five years and limiting conditional employment to three months pending the result of a more extensive background check. SUSPENDS REQUIREMENTS FOR SOCIAL WORKERS - Suspends certain requirements for restoration of an inactive or expired license of five years or less for professional counselors, social workers, and clinical psychologists. For example, suspends IDPH conducting an on-site review at each facility annually. The Illinois Whistleblower Protection Act, 740 ILCS 174, prohibits retaliation against an employee for disclosing information they believe violates a state or federal law, rule, or regulation. Temporary employees hired through a temporary staffing agency can be eligible for unemployment insurance. cnbc anchors net worth, blue yeti not showing up on blue sherpa,