Governor Signs More Than 120 Bills Into Law

Governor J.B. Pritzker has signed 124 bills into law, capping off a busy legislative session that saw bipartisan cooperation on a wide range of issues. The new laws, which take effect immediately, address topics including public safety, health care, consumer protections, education, and accessibility. Among the measures are several sponsored by legislators representing the Springfield area, each targeting practical changes aimed at improving everyday life for Illinois residents.

One of the newly signed bills, Senate Bill 1256, sponsored by State Senator Steve McClure (R-Springfield) and State Representative C.D. Davidsmeyer (R-Murrayville), removes burdensome renewal requirements for disability license plates and parking decals. Under previous law, residents with permanent disabilities — or their guardians — were required to submit annual medical documentation to maintain their parking accommodations. The new measure extends the certification period to five years, and allows licensed physical therapists to approve applications, eliminating the need for repeated and costly physician visits. McClure said the change ensures people “no longer face repetitive and burdensome hurdles just to access parking accommodations they rely on,” while Davidsmeyer described the measure as “basic common-sense” legislation that streamlines government processes for those who need them most.

Another bill, Senate Bill 1550, expands the allowable uses for library grants administered by the Illinois Secretary of State’s office. Sponsored by State Representative Mike Coffey (R-Springfield), the measure authorizes the use of these grants for security improvements at public libraries, including updated surveillance systems, improved lighting, secure entry points, and other safety-related upgrades. Previously, grant funds were largely limited to operational or program-related uses. Coffey said the legislation will help ensure libraries remain safe and welcoming spaces. “The Springfield Public Library is an essential part of the Capitol City, and improving security measures to this library and members of library systems across the state will give visitors a little bit more peace of mind while enjoying all the services our libraries have to offer,” he said.

Also included in the legislative package is House Bill 1141, sponsored by State Senator Doris Turner (D-Springfield), which requires private insurers and state group health plans to fully cover medically necessary anesthesia services, regardless of how long a procedure lasts. The legislation came in response to proposed policy changes by an insurer in other states that would have capped anesthesia coverage times, potentially leaving patients with significant out-of-pocket costs for longer surgeries. Turner said the law sends a clear message that patients’ needs must come first. “Insurance coverage isn’t a timeshare, and companies shouldn’t have the ability to sell plans that burden people,” she said. “We put patients first here in Illinois.”

Also included in the legislative package is Senate Bill 1953, sponsored by State Senator Doris Turner (D-Springfield) and developed in collaboration with the Massey Commission, which was formed following the death of Sonya Massey last year. The commission reviewed law enforcement hiring practices and identified gaps that could allow problem officers to move between agencies undetected. The bill incorporates those recommendations by requiring law enforcement agencies to obtain unredacted employment records, including background investigations, performance reviews, and disciplinary histories, before extending an offer of employment. It also mandates that counties meeting certain population thresholds implement the Sheriff’s Merit System to ensure a standardized, transparent hiring process.

Sangamon County Board Chairman Andy Van Meter said, “The Massey Commission has worked in a positive way to identify meaningful reforms that would strengthen law enforcement hiring practices and restore public trust. Senator Turner led the effort to get this across the finish line in the Statehouse, working with people on all sides in a bipartisan effort. I’m grateful to Senator Turner and to the members of the Massey Commission for their dedication to making these changes a reality. This legislation is an important step toward ensuring our communities have the most qualified officers serving them.”

By improving transparency and ensuring full disclosure of officer records, the measure seeks to close loopholes that have allowed individuals with concerning histories to be rehired in other jurisdictions. Supporters say the changes will help law enforcement agencies make better-informed hiring decisions, reduce risks to public safety, and strengthen community trust.