Literally hundreds of new laws will be taking effect in Illinois as of January 1, 2014. Here are some you might need to know about.

  • Talking on your cell phone while driving will no longer be permitted unless you are using a hands free device. You'll face a $75 fine for using your cell phone without one. That cost will go up if you're in an accident and it's determined that an electronic device caused distracted driving.
  • If you have a serious medical condition you may qualify for medical marijuana
  • If you are under 18 years of age you can no longer use a tanning bed
  • You may vote in a primary election if you're 18th birthday falls before the general election
  • If you buy a pet from a pet store and that pet is found to be sick, the pet store has to take the pet back and/or pay the veterinary bills
  • Cigarette butts will count as litter and the fine will be $50 (for any litter)
  • Schools cannot look at your kids' e-mail or facebook pages without your permission
  • The speed limit on interstate highways will increase to 70mph, however counties in suburban Chicago and St. Louis will have the right to opt out and keep their speed limits at 65mph
  • Fines for speeding in a work zone will be reduced if there are no workers present at the time. They will increase if workers are present.
  • If you pass a school bus with it's 'stop' sign out you will be caught on video which will be shared with the local police
  • If you go to a winery, order a bottle of wine and don't finish it you will now be allowed to take it home with you. The winery must re-cork the bottle and put it in a tamper-evident bag. You will not be ticketed for 'open container' for having it.
  • If you drive through a tollway without paying the toll your name can be posted on the Illinois Tollway website along with the amount you owe.
New Illinois laws in 2014
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