Bills & Legislation

DISABILITY-DECISION MAKING

Amends the Probate Act of 1975. Requires that a guardian ad litem in a petition seeking a guardianship of an adult with alleged disability to inquire with the respondent before the hearing on whether a supported decision-making agreement is an appropriate alternative to guardianship or a limited guardianship is an appropriate alternative to plenary guardianship. Requires that the court make the same inquiry at the hearing and advise the respondent of the right to modify an adjudication of disability using a limited guardianship or termination of guardianship with a supported decision-making agreement. Amends the Supported Decision-Making Agreement Act. Allows the existence of a supported decision-making agreement to be entered into evidence for purposes other than as evidence of capacity or incapacity. Requires that a support decision-making agreement must be written in plain language and include the following: (1) a list of the areas in which both the principal requests support and the supporter agrees to provide support; (2) the supporter's agreement that the supporter is not disqualified from acting as a supporter under the Act; (3) the supporter's agreement that the supporter will complete the training required by the Act; (4) a statement that a supporter is not authorized to make a decision for the principal; and ( 5) information about how to report suspicion that an adult with a disability is being abused, neglected, or exploited by the supporter. Requires that a supported decision-making agreement must be signed by the principal and each supporter. Provides that the principal may use reasonable modifications, such as assistive technology or physical assistant, to sign the agreement. Provides that a supported decision-making agreement should be reviewed by the principal and all supporters every 2 years and, updated as needed, in the same manner as an initial supported decision-making agreement is executed. Makes other changes.

MINE SUBSIDENCE INSURANCE FUND

Amends the Mine Subsidence Insurance Article of the Illinois Insurance Code. Makes changes to defined terms. Provides that the moneys in the Illinois Mine Subsidence Insurance Fund shall be derived primarily from premiums for mine subsidence insurance ceded by insurers to the Fund pursuant to the Article and from investment income. In establishing mine subsidence insurance premium rates, provides that the Fund shall give due consideration to factors reasonably considered by an insurer when setting premium rates. Changes terms related to the appointment of directors in provisions concerning management of the Fund and establishes 3-year staggered terms for the directors. Provides that all directors shall be independent and owe a duty of care and duty of loyalty to the Fund. In provisions concerning mine subsidence coverage, provides that the loss covered shall be the loss in excess of any applicable deductible or retention in the policy, subject to the limit of insurance for mine subsidence damage stated in the policy. For all policies issued or renewed on or after January 1, 2027, provides that there shall be no deductible or retention applicable to mine subsidence damage. For all policies issued or renewed on or after the effective date of the amendatory Act, provides that the maximum amount of reinsured loss per residence, per commercial building, and per living unit shall be the amounts established by the Fund and approved by the Director. Provides that the residential and living unit coverage provided under the Article may also cover specified costs of debris removal, moving and storage of contents, and repair or replacement of landscaping. Makes changes in provisions concerning division of the Fund; exemptions; rights of insurers to refuse to provide mine subsidence coverage; arbitration; reinsurance agreements; distribution of premiums; reporting requirements; right of recourse and setoffs; subrogation; and powers of the Director of Insurance.

REPEAL PA 103-653-CONVEYANCE

Repeals Public Act 103-653, which authorized the Adjutant General to convey certain real property in Franklin County, Illinois. Effective immediately.

FINANCIAL REG-FEES-INVESTIGATE

Amends the Currency Exchange Act. Removes provisions requiring the Secretary of Financial and Professional Regulation to investigate a currency exchange business at least once in each year and to review and report on the cost of operation of the Currency Exchange Section. Establishes fee-setting provisions for the administration of the Act. Amends the Sales Finance Agency Act, the Consumer Installment Loan Act, and the Safety Deposit License Act. Makes changes to the authority of the Secretary and the Director of the Division of Financial Institutions to examine and investigate a business to determine if it is in compliance with those Acts. Establishes fee-setting provisions for the administration of those Acts. Amends the Debt Management Service Act, the Debt Settlement Consumer Protection Act, and the Payday Loan Reform Act. Establishes fee-setting provisions for the administration of those Acts. Makes other changes. Effective immediately.

IDFPR-VARIOUS LICENSES

Amends the Regulatory Sunset Act. Changes the repeal date of the Clinical Psychologist Licensing Act, the Illinois Optometric Practice Act of 1987, the Marriage and Family Therapy Licensing Act, the Boxing and Full-contact Martial Arts Act, the Massage Therapy Practice Act, the Medical Practice Act of 1987, and the Licensed Certified Professional Midwife Practice Act to January 1, 2032 (rather than January 1, 2027). Amends the Clinical Psychologist Licensing Act. Makes changes in provisions concerning written collaborative agreements; temporary authorization of practice by persons licensed in other jurisdictions; and disciplinary action. Amends the Marriage and Family Therapy Licensing Act. Makes changes in provisions concerning exemptions and restrictions and limitations. Amends the Massage Therapy Practice Act. Makes changes in provisions concerning licensure requirements and grounds for discipline. Amends the Medical Practice Act of 1987. Makes changes in provisions concerning certain permits; disciplinary action; and physician delegation of authority. Amends the Illinois Optometric Practice Act of 1987. Makes changes in provisions concerning permitted activities and grounds for disciplinary action. Amends the Illinois Physical Therapy Act. Makes changes in provisions concerning exempt activities. Amends the Boxing and Full-contact Martial Arts Act. Makes changes in provisions concerning the authorization to conduct contests; professional or amateur contests; and medical suspension. Amends the Sex Offender Evaluation and Treatment Provider Act. Makes changes in provisions concerning qualifications for licensure and the appointment of a hearing officer. Repeals provisions concerning a roster of names maintained by the Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. Amends the Barber, Cosmetology, Esthetics, Hair Braiding, and Nail Technology Act of 1985. Makes changes in provisions concerning the requisites for ownership or operation of salons and shops. Amends the Electrologist Licensing Act. Makes changes in provisions concerning exemptions. Amends the Professional Service Corporation Act. Makes changes in the definition of "related professional services". Amends the Professional Limited Liability Company Act. Makes changes in provisions concerning the nature of business. Makes other changes. Effective immediately.

PATIENT BILL & OUTSOURCED CARE

Amends the Fair Patient Billing Act. Makes changes to findings and defined terms provisions. Provides that a hospital shall not deny any protection or benefit of the Act on the basis of a patient's citizenship or immigration status or assets or prospective assets. Provides that a patient who inquires about a denial of financial assistance in whole or in part must be permitted to appeal the decision within at least 90 days. Requires a hospital to use only a uniform financial assistance form developed and provided by the Attorney General no later than December 31, 2026. Provides that every hospital bill and every collection notice must notify the patient, in the patient's preferred language, of the availability of hospital financial assistance and charity care. Establishes further provisions concerning hospitals pursuing collection actions; outsourced health care services; patient responsibilities; and applicability of the Act. Amends the Hospital Uninsured Patient Discount Act. Sets forth provisions concerning uninsured patient discounts for specified income levels. Prohibits hospitals from making the availability of a discount under the Act contingent upon the uninsured patient first applying for coverage under public health insurance programs. Provides that patients may not be denied a discount under the Act on the basis of citizenship or immigration status or assets or prospective assets. Makes other changes concerning uninsured patient discounts, outsourcing health care services, and patient responsibilities. Effective immediately.

LIMITED HEALTH SERVICE ORGS

Amends the Limited Health Service Organization Act. Makes changes to defined terms. In provisions concerning the offering of a point-of-sale contract by a limited health service organization (LHSO), removes a provision requiring the LHSO to include an annual maximum benefit allowance not to exceed $2,500 per year that is separate from any limits or allowances applied to in-plan services. Provides that, if an LHSO expends in any calendar quarter more than 20% of its total limited health services expenditures for all its members for out-of-plan covered services, then specified limitations shall not apply subject to the LHSO minimum capital and surplus requirements applicable to a life, accident, and health insurance company. Makes other changes.

WILDLIFE CD-MUTE SWAN

Amends the Wildlife Code. Specifies that the mute swan (Cygnus olor) is not a migratory game bird that is to be protected by the Code.

JUV CT-TRANSFER-VENUE

Amends the Juvenile Court Act of 1987. Provides that, in proceedings under the Minors Requiring Authoritative Intervention, Addicted Minors, or Delinquent Minors Article, initiated in a county, other than the county in which the minor who is subject of the proceedings resides, the court in which the proceedings were initiated may at any time before or after adjudication of wardship transfer the case to the county of the minor's residence. Provides that not later than 15 working days after the date an order of transfer is entered, the clerk of the court transferring a proceeding shall send to the clerk of the receiving court in the county to which the transfer is being made an authenticated copy of the court record, including all documents, petitions, and orders filed therein, and the minute orders and docket entries of the court. Provides that the clerk of the receiving court shall set a status hearing within 10 business days after receipt of the case and shall notify the judge of the receiving court and all parties. Provides that the receiving court shall review the court record immediately upon receipt. Provides that within 20 business days after receipt of the record, the reviewing court shall send a notice to the transferring court indicating it has accepted the case and scheduled a status date. Provides that until the transferring court receives this notice it continues to have jurisdiction over the case. Provides that if for any reason the receiving court does not accept the transfer, the receiving court shall, within 20 business days after receiving the case, send a notice to the transferring court indicating its reasons. Provides that the transferring court will continue its jurisdiction of the case and shall set the matter for status within 20 business days. Effective immediately.

IEMA-OHS-ENVIRONMENTAL SAMPLES

Amends the Nuclear Safety Law of 2004. Provides that the Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland Security has the right to enter on public and private property in order to take environmental samples in response to a disaster that causes radioactive contamination. Effective immediately.

EPA-ORPHAN UST CLEANUP

Amends the Petroleum Underground Storage Tanks Title of the Environmental Protection Act. Provides that a municipality or county may, to the same extent as an owner or operator, conduct tank removal, abandonment, site investigation, and corrective action with respect to a petroleum orphan underground storage tank in accordance with the requirements of the Leaking Underground Storage Tank Program, except that a municipality or county does not have to elect to proceed as an owner and the costs shall be eligible for payment from the Underground Storage Tank Fund. Defines "orphan underground storage tank". Makes conforming and other changes in provisions regarding the Underground Storage Tank Fund.

SCH CD-TEACHER SALARY-CONT ED

Amends the Employment of Teachers Article of the School Code. Provides that beginning with continuing education coursework commenced on or after July 1, 2026, a school district, special education cooperative, or other public educational employer may recognize graduate-level continuing education coursework for purposes of salary advancement or lane changes only if the continuing education coursework meets specified requirements. Provides that nothing in the provisions impairs the ability of the parties to a collective bargaining agreement to negotiate salary schedules or compensation structures, as long as any graduate-level continuing education coursework recognized for salary advancement or lane changes complies with those specified requirements. Allows the State Board of Education, in consultation with the Board of Higher Education, to adopt rules as necessary to implement the provisions. Effective July 1, 2026.

GUARDIANSHIP-VARIOUS

Amends the Guardianship and Advocacy Act. Changes references from the federal Developmental Disabilities Services and Facilities Construction Act to the federal Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act of 2000. Provides that a majority of members of the Guardianship and Advocacy Commission, excluding vacancies, (instead of 6 members of the Commission) constitute a quorum. In a provision concerning regional authorities making their findings and recommendations public, provides that it shall include in any such public statement any reply made by the State agency, service provider, or other person investigated, if requested by the provider. Amends the Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities Code. Makes changes to the definitions of "guardian" and "mental illness" and adds a definition of "under guardianship". Changes references from the Guardianship and Mental Health Advocacy Commission to the Guardianship and Advocacy Commission.

HUMAN RIGHTS-MENOPAUSE CARE

Creates the Illinois Menopause Equity and Care Act. Amends the Department of Public Health Powers and Duties Law. Requires the Department of Public Health to create educational materials regarding menopause, including symptoms, treatment options, and patient rights for distribution to the public online. Amends the Illinois Insurance Code. Provides that on or after January 1, 2028, all individual and group health insurance policies issued, renewed, or amended must provide coverage for medically necessary evaluation and treatment of perimenopause and menopause as determined by a licensed health care provider using evidence-based guidelines. Amends the Medical Practice Act of 1987. Provides if a licensee treats or evaluates patients suffering from menopause-related conditions, 5 hours of the required 50 hours must include continuing education on menopause care, including management of symptoms, hormonal and non-hormonal therapies, and bone health. Amends the Illinois Human Rights Act. Defines "menopause-related condition" includes perimenopause, menopause, and associated medical or symptomatic conditions, including, but not limited to, vasomotor symptoms, sleep disruption, cognitive or mood changes, and osteoporosis-related changes. Provides that it is a civil rights violation to unlawfully discriminate because of a menopause-related condition or fail or refuse to provide reasonable accommodations.

SHEFFIELD WASTE FUND

Amends the Radioactive Waste Storage Act. Provides that interest earned by the investment or deposit of moneys accumulated in the fund pursuant to the settlement agreement in the matter of the State of Illinois, et al. v. Teledyne, Inc., shall be deposited into the Radioactive Waste Site Perpetual Care Fund for the continued maintenance of the Sheffield Low-Level Radioactive Waste Site and the surrounding buffer zone. Effective immediately.

SALES FINANCE AGENCY-VARIOUS

Amends the Sales Finance Agency Act. Makes changes to defined terms. Provides that applicants for a license shall apply in a form prescribed by the Secretary of Financial and Professional Regulation. Prohibits any person, partnership, association, corporation, limited liability company, or other entity engaged in a business regulated by the Act from operating the business under a name other than the real names of the entity and individuals conducting the business. Grants the Secretary authority to issue a license upon completion of the specified filing and investigatory requirements. Sets forth further licensing requirements. Provides that all moneys received by the Secretary under the Act in conjunction with the provisions relating to sales finance agencies shall be paid into the Financial Institution Fund. Prohibits a sales finance agency from aiding or seeking to aid any person in the violation of the Retail Installment Sales Act or the Motor Vehicle Retail Installment Sales Act. Grants additional investigatory, disciplinary, and examination authority to the Secretary. Establishes rulemaking provisions. Grants the Department authority to adopt rules to provide for review within the Department of the Secretary's decisions affecting the rights of persons or entities under the Act. Allows the Secretary to request a circuit court to assess a civil penalty of up to $10,000 (rather than $1,000) for violations of the Act. Repeals various provisions of the Act. Makes other changes. Effective immediately.

REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH PRIVACY

Creates the Reproductive Health Records Privacy Act. Requires health information exchanges to implement policies and technical capabilities by July 1, 2027, to segregate medical information related to abortion care, restrict access by out-of-state entities, and limit disclosure. Provides enforcement through private actions and civil actions by the Attorney General, including injunctive relief and civil penalties. Defines terms. Amends the Medical Patient Rights Act to clarify patient privacy rights and allow segregation of abortion-related information in health information exchanges. Provides for severability.

EARLY LEARNING COUNCIL

Amends the Illinois Early Learning Council Act. Makes changes in provisions concerning the purpose of the Illinois Early Learning Council. Provides that the Secretary of Early Childhood or the Secretary's designee shall serve as co-chairperson of the Council. Provides that the governor shall appoint to the Council parents and caregivers of children 5 years of age or under. Provides that the Department of Early Childhood shall provide staffing and administrative support to the Council. Sets forth provisions concerning conflicts of interest. Amends the Early Childhood Access Consortium for Equity Act. Provides that specified members of the advisory committee to the Early Childhood Access Consortium shall be appointed by the Department of Early Childhood.

AUTISM SPECTRUM-DIAGNOSIS

Amends the Illinois Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology Practice Act. Allows a speech-language pathologist to diagnose autism spectrum disorders if: (1) the child is under 3 years of age; and (2) the speech-language pathologist is trained in autism diagnostic evaluation methods as part of the curriculum of an approved program, through worksite training, or through continuing education. Provides that if a diagnosis requires a plan of care that includes elements that are outside the scope of practice of a speech-language pathologist, the speech-language pathologist must refer the patient to the appropriate medical personnel for further evaluation or management. Makes conforming changes in the Medical Assistance Article of the Illinois Public Aid Code, and provisions of the Illinois Insurance Code concerning autism spectrum disorders. Effective July 1, 2027.

WORK COMP-STATE LICENSURE

Amends the Workers' Compensation Act. Provides that any corporation, limited liability company, or partnership engaged in activities requiring licensure by a State agency, for which proof that it has insured its workers' compensation liability is a requirement for licensure, that fails to satisfy specified requirements, shall be subject to civil penalties under the Act unless it shows by clear and convincing evidence that it was not operating during the time its license was active.

LANDLORD-TENANT FEES

Amends the Landlord and Tenant Act. Requires landlords to disclose all non-optional fees in a clear and conspicuous manner in the listing and on the first page of the lease. Requires landlords to disclose if any utility bills are non-optional fees in the listing and the first page of the lease. Provides that if a landlord failed to comply with this disclosure, the landlord may not collect the non-optional fee. Prohibits a landlord from charging a bundled services fee that combines optional and non-optional fees. Prohibits a landlord from charging a tenant with a fee or fine that includes, but is not limited to, an application fee that includes a background check of more than $50, an after-hours request for maintenance service, or pest abatement or removal in which the tenant has not contributed to the infestation. Prohibits a landlord from charging a tenant more than one of the following: (i) a security deposit, (ii) a move-in fee, or (iii) a move-out fee. Exempts leases in owner-occupied buildings containing 6 or fewer units and to nonresidential tenancies. Defines terms. Creates a civil cause of action for violation of the Act by a landlord. Makes other changes. Limits home rule.

DISSOLVE SPECIAL DISTRICTS ACT

Creates the Dissolution of Special Districts Act. Establishes a method for the dissolution of special districts. Provides that a special district may dissolve upon the affirmative majority vote of its own governing body and the affirmative majority vote of a receiving unit of local government. Provides that, on or before the date of dissolution, all real and personal property, and any other assets, together with all personnel, contractual obligations, and liabilities of the dissolving special district shall be transferred to the receiving unit of local government. Provides that, on the date of dissolution, the dissolving special district is dissolved. Provides that, on and after the date of dissolution, all rights and duties of the dissolving special district may be exercised by the receiving unit of local government. Provides that, before the date of dissolution, the receiving unit of local government shall submit a service continuation plan confirming that the receiving unit of local government has the resources to continue providing the services provided by the dissolving special district. Effective immediately.

TOWNSHIP CD-WEED CUTTING

Amends the Township Code. In a provision that authorizes a township board to provide for the cutting of weeds or grass, the trimming of trees or bushes, the removal of nuisance bushes or trees, or the maintenance of a retention pond or detention pond on any real estate in areas within the township, specifies that the required 7-day advance notice to the property owner may be served by certified mail, by personal service, or by posting the notice on the property in a prominent location.

FUNDS AND MANDATES-VARIOUS

Amends the Election Code, the State Budget Law of the Civil Administrative Code of Illinois, the Children and Family Services Act, the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity Law of the Civil Administrative Code of Illinois, the Energy Conservation and Coal Development Act, the Illinois Finance Authority Act, the Illinois Criminal Justice Information Act, the Balanced Budget Note Act, the State Finance Act, the Illinois Income Tax Act, the Illinois Pesticide Act, the Illinois Low-Level Radioactive Waste Management Act, the Habitat Endowment Act, the Illinois Vehicle Code, the Public-Private Partnerships for Transportation Act, the Unified Code of Corrections, and the Adoption Act to make changes to provisions concerning specified funds. Amends the State Employee Housing Act, the Illinois Lottery Law, the Military Code of Illinois, the Department of Public Health Powers and Duties Law of the Civil Administrative Code of Illinois, the Department of Veterans Affairs Act, the Illinois Procurement Code, the School Code, the Hospital Licensing Act, the Prevention of Unnecessary Institutionalization Act, the Adult Protective Services Act, the Autism Spectrum Disorders Reporting Act, the Illinois Solid Waste Management Act, the Recycled Newsprint Use Act, the Illinois Cool Cities Act, and the Illinois Chemical Safety Act to make various changes.

SW IL METRO/REGION PLANNING

Amends the Southwestern Illinois Metropolitan and Regional Planning Act. Provides that, beginning on the effective date of the amendatory Act, the Southwestern Illinois Metropolitan and Regional Planning Commission shall consist of 34 commissioners, 27 of whom shall be voting members and 7 of whom shall be nonvoting at-large members. Provides that the 27 voting members of the Commission shall be (1) 7 commissioners who shall be the chairman of the Bond County Board, the chairman of the Clinton County Board, the chairman of the Monroe County Board, the chairman of the Randolph County Board, the chairman of the Washington County Board, the chairman of the Madison County Board, and the chairman of the St. Clair County Board; (2) 10 commissioners appointed 2 apiece by the chairman of the Bond County Board, the chairman of the Clinton County Board, the chairman of the Monroe County Board, the chairman of the Randolph County Board, and the chairman of the Washington County Board; (3) 6 commissioners appointed 3 apiece by the chairman of the Madison County Board and the chairman of the St. Clair County Board; (4) 2 commissioners appointed one apiece by the board of the America's Central Port District and board of Kaskaskia Regional Port District; (5) one commissioner appointed by the Southwestern Illinois Council of Mayors from its council; and (6) one commissioner appointed by the Metro East Sanitary District from its board. Provides that the 7 nonvoting at-large members of the Commission shall reside in the metropolitan and regional counties area and be appointed as follows: (1) one member appointed by the Governor; (2) one member appointed by the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity; (3) one member appointed by the Leadership Council of Southwestern Illinois; (4) one member appointed by the Bi-State Development; (5) one member appointed by the Metro East Transit District; (6) one member appointed by the St. Clair County Transit District; and (7) one member appointed by the East-West Gateway Council of Governments. Provides that all funds received for the use of the Commission shall be deposited in a depository approved by the Commission and shall be withdrawn or paid out only if authorized by any 2 of the commissioners or employees designated by the Commission to act as signatories to withdraw funds of the Commission. Makes other and conforming changes.

EMS MENTAL FACILITY TRANSPORT

Amends the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Systems Act. In provisions concerning when EMS personnel may contact Online Medical Control or an EMS Medical Director or Emergency Communications Registered Nurse to request bypass or diversion of the closest emergency department and request transport to the closest or appropriate EMS System-approved mental health facility, removes the requirement that the patient must not be under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

PEN CD-ACCELERATED BENEFIT

Amends the General Obligation Bond Act. Authorizes an additional $1,000,000,000 of State Pension Obligation Acceleration Bonds. Makes a conforming change. Amends the State Employees, State Universities, and Downstate Teachers Articles of the Illinois Pension Code. Extends the option for a participant to receive an accelerated pension benefit payment in lieu of any pension benefit or for a reduction in the increases to his or her annual retirement annuity and survivor's annuity to June 30, 2030 (instead of June 30, 2026). Effective immediately.

SCH SAFETY-PANIC ALERT SYSTEM

Amends the School Safety Drill Act. Requires school districts and private schools to consider the use of a mobile panic alert system in the development of their school emergency and crisis response plans. Requires the State Board of Education, in consultation with the Illinois State Police and the Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland Security, to develop standards for a mobile panic alert system. Creates the Mobile Panic Alert System Grant Fund. Makes a conforming change in the State Finance Act.

JCAR-EXTENSION-NOTICE PERIOD

Amends the Illinois Administrative Procedure Act. In provisions regarding the second notice period for rulemaking, provides that the second notice period shall be extended for a period not to exceed an additional 45 days if the agency has received a statement of unresponsiveness from the Joint Committee on Administrative Rules. Lists the requirements for a statement of unresponsiveness. Provides that failure to provide a substantive response within 7 days after a statement of unresponsiveness is issued shall constitute a withdrawal of the rulemaking. In provisions regarding the contents of the written notice to the Joint Committee, requires a statement certifying that no procedure, policy, schedule, or other feature of the agency will prevent the agency from substantively engaging with the Joint Committee regarding suggestions made during the second notice period.

ADULT EDUCATION PROGRAMS

Amends the Adult Education Act and the Public Community College Act. With respect to the annual report on adult education for the preceding school year by the Illinois Community College Board, removes the requirement to include a summary of State reimbursement for adult basic education, adult secondary education, English language acquisition, high school credit, integrated English literacy and civics education, and bridge and integrated education and training programs in coordination with vocational skills training. Provides that any public community college district maintaining adult educations classes for the instruction of those persons who, among other requirements, are 17 (rather than 16) years of age or older are entitled to claim an apportionment of State reimbursement. Allows classes in adult education to include digital literacy. Removes language providing that the maximum generation rate for reimbursement per credit hour or per unit of instruction shall be equal to the community college system reimbursement rate for adult education divided by one-third. Provides that State adult education funds, other than matching funds, are not subject to the authorizing federal law. Removes language providing that approved programs for adult education may assess students up to $6 per credit hour or unit of instruction per semester per student. Removes language requiring an education plan to be established for each adult learning participating in the instructional programs. Requires each adult learner participating in the instructional programs to complete an assessment of foundational skills to appropriately place the adult learner in an instructional program. Makes other and conforming changes.

FISH CD-ADMINISTRATIVE CLEANUP

Amends the Fish and Aquatic Life Code. In provisions concerning fishing licenses, provides that the holder of a lifetime fishing or hunting license or a lifetime sportsmen's combination license that was purchased on or after January 1, 2027 must pay the corresponding resident or non-resident fee when purchasing any permits or stamps required under the Code or the Wildlife Code based on the license holder's current permanent abode when purchasing the permit or stamp. Further provides that, if the lifetime license holder does not live in Illinois at the time of application for any lotteries, drawings, permits, or stamps that are issued or held pursuant to the Code, the Wildlife Code, or any administrative rules issued pursuant to the Code or the Wildlife Code, that lifetime license holder shall be considered a non-resident for purposes of all lotteries, drawings, permits, or stamps issued or held pursuant to the Code, the Wildlife Code, or any administrative rules issued pursuant to the Code or the Wildlife Code. Provides that the Department of Natural Resources shall suspend the privileges of any person who pleads guilty to, is found guilty of, or receives court supervision for a violation of provisions concerning fee fishing areas. Provides that the Department may refuse to issue, refuse to renew, suspend, or revoke any license issued under the Code if the Department finds that the licensed area or its operator is not in compliance with these requirements. Makes other changes.

CONT SUB-PMP-SCHEDULE II&IV

Amends the Illinois Controlled Substances Act. Provides that each prescriber or the prescriber's designee shall document an attempt to access patient information in the Prescription Monitoring Program to assess patient access to controlled substances when providing a (rather than an initial) prescription for Schedule II and IV controlled substances (rather than narcotics such as opioids), except for prescriptions for oncology treatment or palliative care, or a 7-day or less supply provided by a hospital emergency department when treating an acute, traumatic medical condition.

EPA-FEDERAL BACKSTOP

Amends the Environmental Protection Act. In provisions concerning the regulation of air pollution, water pollution, drinking water, hazardous waste, and landfills, provides that the Illinois Pollution Control Board shall not adopt any standards that are less stringent than those existing in Board regulations. Provides that various provisions of the Act shall not be construed to limit the right of a person to submit to the Board, or for the Board to adopt, regulations more stringent than the regulations promulgated by the Administrator of the United States Environmental Protection Agency.

VEH CD-ALTER SPEED LIMITS

Amends the Illinois Vehicle Code. With regard to automated speed enforcement systems in safety zones, provides that "safety zone" does not include any roadway in which the 30 mile per hour speed limit is decreased by local ordinance without an engineering or traffic investigation. Provides that a local authority or park district shall determine and declare by ordinance a reasonable and safe absolute maximum speed which: decreases the limit within an urban district which shall not require an engineering or traffic investigation to a maximum speed limit of 25 miles per hour, but not less than 20 miles per hour and a maximum speed limit of 10 miles per hour in an alley; increases the limit within an urban district, but not to more than 55 miles per hour, if after increasing the limit within an urban district an engineering or traffic investigation is required to decrease the limit; or decreases the limit within a residence district which shall not require an engineering or traffic investigation to a maximum speed limit of 20 (rather than not to less than 25) miles per hour. Requires a park district, city, village, incorporated town, or county board to post a sign designating the new speed limit. Makes other changes.

PROCUREMENT-CONSTRUCTION

Amends the Illinois Procurement Code. Provides that the chief procurement officer having jurisdiction over construction-related services for the Department of Central Management Services also has jurisdiction over construction procurements for the Department of Central Management Services. Amends the Design-Build Procurement Act. Extends the repeal of the Act until January 1, 2030 (currently, January 1, 2027). Effective immediately.

HIGHER ED-IN-STATE TUITION

Amends various Acts relating to the governance of public universities in Illinois to make changes concerning in-state tuition to remove a condition concerning attending high school or a community college while residing in this State and not having established residency outside of this State before enrolling in the public university. Amends the Public Community College Act to change specified conditions under which the board of trustees of a community college district is required to deem an individual an Illinois resident. Effective immediately.

ID CARD-GENDER DESIGNATION

Amends the Illinois Identification Card Act and the Illinois Vehicle Code. Provides that the Secretary of State shall permit applicants to choose between "male", "female", or "X" (rather than "male", "female", or "non-binary") on an application for an identification card, driver's license, or permit. Provides that an applicant who wants to change the sex listed on an issued identification card, driver's license, or permit must submit a gender designation form. Sets forth the requirements of the gender designation form.

DEC-DAY CARE CRIMINAL CHECKS

Amends the Department of Early Childhood Act. Provides that beginning July 1, 2026, the authority and responsibility to conduct a fingerprint-based criminal history check on providers of day care at day care centers, part day child care facilities, day care homes, and group day care homes shall transfer to the Department of Early Childhood from the Department of Children and Family Services. Provides that the Department shall require that each day care license applicant and each applicant, employee, and volunteer of a licensed day care facility to authorize an investigation to determine if such applicant, employee, or volunteer has ever been charged with a crime and if so, the disposition of those charges. Contains provisions on the submission of such persons' fingerprints to the Illinois State Police to be checked for a fee against State and federal criminal history record databases. Provides that any conviction information obtained during the criminal history records checks shall be provided, upon request, to the applicant, employee, and volunteer. Contains provisions on the probationary hiring of employees or volunteers authorizing a criminal background investigation. Makes conforming changes to the Child Care Act of 1969. Effective July 1, 2026.

INS-MAMMOGRAM COVERAGE

Amends the Illinois Insurance Code. Requires every insurer to provide in each group or individual policy, contract, or certificate of insurance issued or renewed for persons who are residents of the State, coverage for screening by low-dose mammography for all patients 30 (instead of 35) years of age or older for the presence of occult breast cancer within the provisions of the policy, contract, or certificate. Requires coverage for a baseline mammogram for patients 30 to 34 (instead of 35 to 39) years of age and an annual mammogram for patients 35 (instead of 40) years of age or older. Effective January 1, 2027.

JUV CT-EXTENDED JUR JUV PROS

Amends the Juvenile Court Act of 1987. Provides that the State's Attorney may file a written petition, at any time prior to commencement of the minor's trial, to designate the proceeding as an extended jurisdiction juvenile prosecution when the petition alleges the commission by a minor 15 (rather than 13) years of age or older of any offense that would be a felony if committed by an adult. Provides that, upon filing of a petition, the judge shall conduct a hearing at which he or she shall first determine whether there is probable cause to believe that the allegations in the petition and motion are true. Provides that, if probable cause is found, the judge may enter an order designating the proceeding as an extended jurisdiction juvenile proceeding if the judge makes a finding based on clear and convincing evidence that sentencing under the Unified Code of Corrections may be appropriate for the minor based on an evaluation of certain factors. Provides that the judge shall consider: (1) the minor's age, impetuosity, and level of maturity at the time of the offense, including the ability to consider risks and consequences of behavior, and any presence of cognitive or developmental disability, or both, including if a comprehensive mental health evaluation of the minor was conducted by a qualified mental health professional, the outcome of the evaluation; and (2) the history of the minor, including the minor's family, home environment, educational and social background, including any history of parental neglect, domestic or sexual violence, sexual exploitation, physical abuse, or other childhood trauma, including adverse childhood experiences. Makes other changes.

GINSENG HARVESTING-FORFEITURE

Amends the Ginseng Harvesting Act. Makes changes to definitions. Adds prohibitions against attempted violations in provisions concerning a harvest license and in provisions concerning trespass to harvest ginseng. Requires a person with a harvest license, grower's license, or dealer license to immediately produce the license when requested to do so by an officer or authorized employee of the Department of Natural Resources or any sheriff, deputy sheriff, or any other peace officer. Provides that the Department may suspend a person who violates the Act or commits other specified violations from engaging in any activity requiring a license under the Act for a period of time according to rules adopted by the Department (rather than not to exceed 5 years following the revocation). Provides that any device or equipment, including vehicles and conveyances, used or operated in violation of the Act or rules adopted under the Act or attempted to be used in violation of the Act or rules adopted under the Act is subject to seizure and confiscation by the Department. Lists procedures for seizure, notice, court adjudication, and sale of property. Provides for return of lost property to its rightful owner. Directs that proceeds of sales shall be deposited into the Wildlife and Fish Fund. Requires reporting under the Seizure and Forfeiture Reporting Act and makes conforming changes in that Act.

MUNI CD-DETENTION FACILITIES

Amends the Illinois Municipal Code. Provides that a detention center facility may not be located, constructed, or operated within 1,500 feet of the property boundaries of any school, day care center, day care home, cemetery, public park, forest preserve, public housing, private residence, or place of religious worship, regardless of address. Defines "detention center facility" and "federal immigration authority". Effective immediately.

LONG TERM CARE-NOTICE

Amends the Assisted Living and Shared Housing Act, the MC/DD Act, and the ID/DD Community Care Act. Provides that notice of closure of an establishment or facility licensed under those Acts shall be given to the Office of the State Long Term Care Ombudsman.

DRUG DISTRIBUTION RESTRICTIONS

Amends the Wholesale Drug Distribution Licensing Act. In provisions concerning restrictions on transactions, provides that prescription drugs furnished by a manufacturer or wholesale distributor licensed under the Act may be delivered only to the business address of a licensee registered with the Department of Financial and Professional Regulation, to the premises listed on a license, or, if the Department has received notice that the licensee has authorized a health care entity to receive the prescription drugs, to the address of a health care entity (instead of only to the premises listed on the license). Provides that "health care entity" means an entity where medical, dental, or veterinary services are provided by a licensed practitioner and where the licensed practitioner is responsible for the receipt, storage, and use of drugs.

DCFS-SECURE ACT

Provides that the Act may be referred to as the Safeguards to Ensure Continuity and Uphold Rights and Equity (SECURE) Act. Sets forth several legislative findings, including that (i) Illinois retains a non-delegable duty to safeguard the safety, health, dignity, and well-being of all youth in the care or custody of the Department of Children and Family Services, and (ii) the Department must respect and meaningfully consider a youth's expressed preferences in placement options while conducting transparent, individualized risk assessments. Amends the Children and Family Services Act. Adds provisions concerning case plans for youth in care and the specific tasks and responsibilities a caregiver must complete to ensure each youth is provided with safe, proper, and supportive care based on the youth's needs and best interests, including, but not limited to, the youth's protected characteristics as defined under the Illinois Human Rights Act. Contains provisions concerning requirements for interstate placements of youth age 8 or older, including, but not limited to: protecting a youth's access to lawful health care and civil immunities for Department employees who protect a youth's access to lawful health care; individualized assessments on the suitability and risks of the proposed interstate placement; ongoing Illinois-based case worker contact and monitoring; and a prohibition on consent to conversion therapy. Contains provisions on youth requested in-state or out-of-state placement and other related matters; annual Department reports on out-of-state placements; performance audits; private right of action; and other matters. Amends the Child Care Act of 1969 by adding provisions on supportive care for youth in care; youth-directed placement rights; licensure and contractual compliance. Amends the Juvenile Court Act of 1987. Adds provisions on the appointment of an attorney for a youth in care with special needs; required Department attestations on caregiver conduct when a youth is placed in an out-of-state residential treatment center; assessments and monitoring for minors in out-of-state placements; and other matters. Effective July 1, 2027.

EPIDEMIOLOGICAL PATHOGENS

Amends the Hospital Licensing Act. Defines "pathogens of epidemiological concern". Provides that each hospital shall develop and implement comprehensive interventions to prevent and control pathogens of epidemiological concern (instead of multidrug-resistant organisms) that take into consideration guidelines of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention or recommendations from the Infectious Disease Society of America, the Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America, the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology, or the Pediatric Infectious Disease Society for the management of multidrug-resistant organisms in health care settings. Within 12 months after the effective date of the amendatory Act, requires each hospital to adopt a policy for preventing and controlling the transmission of pathogens of epidemiological concern. Establishes reporting requirements for hospitals with patients carrying pathogens of epidemiological concern. Repeals the MRSA Screening and Reporting Act.

HIGHER ED-SURVEY/BD/REPORT

Amends the Preventing Sexual Violence in Higher Education Act to make a change concerning the topics of the base survey. Amends the Board of Education Act to remove the requirement that each student member of the Board of Higher Education shall serve beginning on July 1. Amends various Acts relating to the governance of public universities. Provides that the academic major report provided by a university's governing board shall include, among other information, the average monthly student loan payment over a period of 10 (rather than 20) years based on the estimated cost of a student's education and the percentage of graduate jobs in which a graduate who holds a degree in a particular major or program of study remains continuously employed with the same employer in the State for 3 consecutive fiscal quarters (rather than the average job placement rate within 12 months after graduation for a graduate who holds a degree in a particular major or program of study). Effective immediately.

PHARMACIES-9-8-8 INFORMATION

Amends the Pharmacy Practice Act. Provides that every licensed pharmacy directly serving patients at a physical location shall conspicuously post a sign provided by the Department of Human Services that contains the following: (i) a statement that the Department of Human Services runs a Suicide and Crisis Lifeline; (ii) the Lifeline number; and (iii) any other information the Department of Human Services deems appropriate. Provides that the sign shall be printed in color ink or displayed electronically in color, measure at least 8.5 x 11 inches in size, and be posted at either a cashier counter or a waiting area that is clearly visible to patients. Requires licensed pharmacies that do not maintain a physical location that directly serves patients to include a copy of the sign with any dispensed prescriptions. Provides that the sign shall also be available to download on the Department of Human Services's website.