Illinois Landlord Law Update for 2025
Just when you thought you were getting comfortable with the 2023 and 2024 legal changes (and if you don’t know what they are, you better catch up), here comes 2025 with even more updates to shake things up. The shift from 2024 to 2025 isn’t just another year—it’s a whole new landscape of laws that will impact your business big time. Let’s skip the panic. Here’s the scoop on the new laws rolling out in Illinois starting January 1, 2025.
🚪 Say Goodbye to Redundant Fees: Reusable Resident Reports
Ever feel like application fees are causing unnecessary frustration in the rental process? New rules now require landlords to accept reusable resident screening reports (Read the law here), making the process smoother and more efficient for everyone. Here’s how this works for you as a landlord or property manager:
- The report must be:
- Prepared within the last 30 days by a certified credit reporting agency.
- Shared with you directly (or via a platform) at no cost to you.
You still get to verify residents, but without making them pay multiple times. This change ensures residents have a streamlined and cost-effective process while landlords still receive all the necessary information for resident verification.
💸 No More “Surprise!” Fees on Rent Payments
Nobody likes sneaky fees. Residents paying rent online have been hit with extra charges long enough. Starting in 2025, landlords must offer fee-free payment options (Read the law here) like paper checks or cash. Here’s the breakdown:
- If a portal charges e-check or credit card fees, residents get to choose other methods without paying extra.
- Applies to all leases signed after this law kicks in.
This ensures that residents have accessible and transparent payment options without added costs.
🛡️ Resident Power-Up: The Landlord Retaliation Act
Picture this: A resident calls out unsafe mold in their unit. Suddenly, their rent spikes or their lease isn’t renewed. Not cool, right? The Landlord Retaliation Act makes moves like that illegal (Read the law here). Here’s what’s covered:
- Landlords cannot:
- Terminate leases or raise rents in retaliation for resident complaints.
- Decrease services or threaten lawsuits to silence residents.
- Residents who face retaliation can:
- Get up to two months’ rent or twice their damages back.
- Have their attorney fees covered.
This law provides residents with legal protections to ensure they can report issues without fear of retaliation.
🅿️ Accessible Parking: A Game-Changer for Condo Residents
Imagine a wheelchair user finally getting an accessible parking space near their condo—no more parking struggles! Updates to the Condominium Property Act make this a reality (Read the law here):
- Condo boards must:
- Adopt policies to accommodate disabled residents’ parking needs.
- Prioritize accessible parking for those who need it most.
- Resolve requests within 45 days.
- For new condos, accessible spaces stay as common elements—they can’t be sold off.
- Disabled residents can sue for fair treatment if boards don’t comply.
These amendments aim to ensure accessibility and fair treatment for individuals requiring accessible parking.
🌊 The Truth About Flood Zones: What Landlords MUST Share
Flooding can turn a dream home into a nightmare. That’s why landlords now must come clean about flood risks (Read the law here). Here’s what you need to disclose:
- If your property is in a FEMA flood zone (aka “100-year floodplain”).
- Past flooding events in the last 10 years, including frequency.
- Whether lower-level units (basements, garden apartments) have been flooded.
Why it matters? Residents armed with this info can make informed decisions. If landlords don’t disclose and flooding occurs, residents have the right to break the lease and seek damages.
Why These Laws Are a Big Deal
These updates aren’t just about compliance; they’re about building trust. Transparent, fair practices make happier residents and smoother operations. Plus, nobody wants to be on the wrong side of a lawsuit, right?
🎯 Quick Links to Stay Ahead
- Check if your property’s in a flood zone: fema.gov
- Learn about reusable resident reports: ready.gov
- Accessibility resources: dnr.illinois.gov
Stay sharp, stay proactive, and turn these legal changes into opportunities to shine as a landlord!
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Tagged #city politics, 2025, budget, Chicago, cook county, Illinois, laws, politics, Pritzker, rent, rental, Retaliation, Roy F. McCampbell, Roy McCampbell, transparency
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Rental Property Tax Laws and Regulations in Illinois 2025
Understanding rental property tax laws in Illinois is crucial for landlords and real estate investors seeking to optimize their financial strategies. Key aspects include knowing the tax laws and compliance requirements, which are essential to avoid penalties and maximize savings. It’s equally vital to stay updated on any recent changes that could impact property investments.
Illinois does not have rent control laws, meaning landlords can set rents as they see fit, yet must comply with statelandlord-tenant regulations. In addition, tax laws such as the Illinois Sales and Use Tax may apply if a business involves rented tangible personal property, requiring landlords to register with theIllinois Department of Revenue.
A comprehensive knowledge of tax benefits and compliance can help landlords make informed decisions and enhance their income. These insights can shape investment strategies and operational efficiencies in rental property management. Further understanding of these elements helps property owners to not only safeguard their investments but also capitalize on available opportunities.
Key Takeaways
- Illinois allows rent increases without caps due to no rent control law.
- Compliance with Illinois tenant regulations is necessary to avoid penalties.
- Knowing tax laws can optimize investment strategies and savings.
What Are The Essential Rental Property Tax Laws In Illinois?
Landlords and real estate investors in Illinois should stay informed about tax responsibilities and potential credits available to them. Familiarizing themselves with these aspects is crucial for managing taxes efficiently.
Key Tax Obligations For Landlords
In Illinois, landlords must comply with specific tax obligations when leasing or renting out property. As of January 1, 2025, businesses that lease or rent tangible personal property are required to register with the Illinois Department of Revenue. They need to pay sales tax on lease or rental receipts. This includes all tangible items leased or rented out under the state’s tax laws.
Landlords should be aware that they indirectly contribute to property taxes through rental agreements. It’s essential for landlords to consider property taxes when setting rental prices, as taxes are a significant factor in the financial planning of property management.
Understanding Tax Deductions And Credits
Rental property owners in Illinois can benefit from various tax deductions and credits. They may deduct expenses such as insurance premiums, maintenance and repairs, and travel expenses related to property management. These deductions help in lowering the taxable income, making it essential for landlords to keep a detailed record of these expenses.
Landlords should also be aware of deductions related to cleaning fees and applicable tax rates, which can further reduce their tax liability. For more detailed guidelines, landlords can refer to resources such as the guide on rental property tax deductions in Illinois. Accurate documentation and understanding of these deductions ensure landlords maximize their tax savings effectively.
How Can Landlords Ensure Compliance With Illinois Regulations?
Landlords in Illinois must adhere to a range of regulations to maintain lawful and fair practices. Understanding specifichousing laws and potential penalties can prevent costly legal issues and protecttenant rights.
Important Illinois Housing Regulations
Illinois landlords need to be well-versed in various regulations to avoid legal complications. Key areas include adherence to the Illinois Radon Awareness Act and maintaining compliance with the Fair Housing Act to prevent discrimination. Proper handling of security deposits is crucial; deposits must be returned within a specified timeframe.
Additionally, lease agreements should comply with state laws, addressing rent increases, notice requirements, and lease termination. The Illinois Human Rights Act and Consumer Fraud and Deceptive Business Practices Act also play significant roles in landlord-tenant relations. Keeping up with these essential rules ensures smooth landlord-tenant relationships.
Penalties For Non-Compliance
Failure to comply with housing regulations can result in significant penalties. Illinois landlords may face fines or legal action for violations, as detailed in the Property Management Laws. Common infractions include mishandling security deposits or improperly executing evictions, which carry strict notice requirements and legally defined processes.
Non-compliance with tenant rights and fair housing practices may lead to more severe consequences, including reputational damage or costly legal disputes. Penalties can extend to late fees or issues related to security deposit interest, emphasizing the importance of understanding Illinois rent laws and specific tenant protections. Avoiding these pitfalls by staying informed can save landlords time and financial stress.
Which Tax Benefits Are Available To Real Estate Investors In Illinois?
Illinois offers tax benefits such as deductions on mortgage interest and property taxes. Additionally, investors can benefit from advantageous depreciation rules, which reduce overall taxable income, and considerations on capital gains that may impact long-term profitability.
Capital Gains Tax Considerations
In Illinois, when real estate investors sell a property for more than its purchase price, they face capital gains tax. The federal rate for long-term capital gains is typically 15% or 20% based on the investor’s income bracket. Illinois charges an additional flat rate of 4.95% on capital gains. It’s important to note that these taxes apply to properties held for over a year.
Investors must determine if they qualify for specific exclusions. For instance, primary residences can be excluded from capital gains tax up to $250,000 for single filers, under the IRS rules. Investors should consider the benefits of using a1031 exchange, which allows the deferral of capital gains tax if the proceeds are reinvested in similar property. This strategy can be beneficial in maximizing investment profits while minimizing tax burden. For more details on these rules, consider reading about tax rules and deductions for real estate investors.
Depreciation Rules
Depreciation is a key tax advantage for Illinois real estate investors. It allows the deduction of the property’s purchase cost over 27.5 years for residential properties. This reduces taxable income each year. Calculating the depreciation requires subtracting the land cost from the total property value, as land is not depreciable.
Improvements or enhancements made to the property can be depreciated as well. These include renovations or major repairs. This can significantly impact profits by lowering taxable income. Depreciation starts when the property is placed in service.
The deduction can also be subject to limitations based on the investor’s active involvement in property management. For more insights into rental property tax benefits, explore this guide on rental property tax deductions in Illinois.
How Do Illinois Tax Laws Affect Property Investment Strategy?
Illinois tax laws significantly shape the strategies used in property investment. Specific policies promote long-term planning and influence the profitability of income-generating properties. Investors must consider these aspects to optimize their returns and manage risks.
Impact On Long-Term Investment Planning
Property investors in Illinois need to understand the impact of property tax incentives on their long-term investment plans. The state provides incentives for developing and maintaining affordable housing, which can encourage investment in this sector.
Another vital consideration is the assessment freezes for seniors and veterans, which can decrease tax burdens on specific properties. These freezes may make long-term investment in properties with such eligibility more appealing by offering better predictability for future expenses.
The state’s average property tax rate is one of the highest in the U.S. This can heavily affect cash flow projections and long-term profitability, urging investors to plan for these taxes in their financial strategies.
Tax Implications For Income Properties
For those investing in income properties, Illinois tax rules present both challenges and opportunities. A key tool is the 1031 exchange, which allows deferring capital gains taxes on property sales, thus promoting reinvestment and portfolio expansion.
Rental property insurance is crucial in managing risks related to natural disasters or tenant issues. Investors in Illinois should consider tailored insurance coverage to protect against unforeseen incidents, as this complements tax-related strategies.
Sales taxes, while not directly related to real estate, can influence the costs associated with property management and maintenance. Staying updated on both local and state tax changes can help in effectively managing these expenses.
What Are The Latest Updates To Illinois Rental Property Tax Laws?
Illinois rental property tax laws have seen several updates aimed at improving efficiency and addressing public health concerns. Understanding these changes is crucial for landlords to stay compliant and manage their responsibilities effectively.
Recent Amendments And Changes
Starting January 1, 2025, leasing or renting tangible personal property in Illinois will be subject to the Illinois Sales and Use Tax. Any landlord or business that leases such property must register with the Illinois Department of Revenue and pay taxes on the income from these activities.
Moreover, payment processors must ensure their systems are updated to handle this change. Failure to comply could result in significant penalties or back taxes. Furthermore, recent amendments to the Illinois Property Tax Code reflect changes, although specific details require further exploration to understand completely.
How Updates Influence Landlord Obligations
Landlords must adjust their operations due to these legal updates. They are now required to ensure that properties comply with the Illinois Radon Awareness Act to reduce radon-related health risks. This involves providing tenants with information on radon levels and mitigation options.
Ensuring tax compliance is now more crucial than ever. Landlords must stay informed about tax responsibilities related to their rental income and be prepared for additional administrative burdens. Updating accounting practices to track and report taxable lease incomes is necessary to avoid any legal issues. Being proactive in understanding these changes can help landlords manage their properties efficiently.
How Can Real Estate Investors Maximize Their Tax Savings In Illinois?
Real estate investors in Illinois have several opportunities to reduce their tax liabilities. Utilizing strategic approaches and effectively leveraging tax credits can result in significant savings.
Strategies For Reducing Tax Liabilities
Investors can benefit immensely from using 1031 exchanges. This allows them to defer capital gains taxes by reinvesting proceeds from a sold property into a like-kind property. Organizing investments under LLCs or partnerships can also provide reduced personal tax exposure and better asset protection. Maximizing deductions such as repairs and maintenance is another viable option. These deductions are recognized as ordinary expenses and can significantly lower taxable income.
Illinois investors should also remember to accurately account for depreciation of property assets, as it serves to reduce taxable income over time. This requires careful record-keeping of purchase prices, improvements, and depreciation schedules.
Leveraging Tax Credits Effectively
Utilizing available tax credits can bolster tax savings. Landlords can take advantage of credits for energy-efficient upgrades or rehabilitating historic properties. These credits not only improve property value but also offer direct tax reductions.
Participating in government programs can further enhance savings. Programs often incentivize investments in specific communities through property tax abatements or reductions. It is vital for investors to stay informed about these opportunities and coordinate with tax professionals to capitalize on them effectively. By doing so, real estate investors can maximize tax savings while contributing to community development. Real estate investors can find more information on tax strategies for 2025 to stay updated on new opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions
For landlords and real estate investors in Illinois, understanding property tax laws is crucial for effective financial planning. This section covers critical questions regarding tax assistance eligibility, tax relief measures, and how rental income is taxed.
How can I determine my eligibility for the Property Tax Assistance Program in Illinois?
Eligibility for the Property Tax Assistance Program can be determined by comparing income levels and assessing the value of the rental property. Specific criteria may vary, so it’s advisable to check with local tax authorities or consult Illinois Attorney General’s guidelines for detailed information.
What property tax relief measures are available to Illinois residents?
Illinois offers tax relief measures such as exemptions and deferments for qualified individuals. These can significantly ease the tax burden on landlords. More information on current available options can be found in Illinois mid-term rental laws.
How is rental income taxed in the state of Illinois?
Rental income in Illinois is taxable as part of the taxpayer’s income. Landlords must report this income on their state tax returns, deducting applicable expenses to calculate the net taxable income.
Are there any available property tax credits for Illinois taxpayers, and how can they be calculated?
Property tax credits may be available for specific circumstances. To calculate these credits, landlords must evaluate eligible expenses and review current state rules. Accurate calculations ensure informed tax planning.
What exemptions are available for disabled property owners on Illinois property taxes?
Disabled property owners may qualify for property tax exemptions, which can lower their tax obligations. These exemptions vary based on individual circumstances, so consulting the Illinois tax exemption guide or local officials can provide clarity.
How does the Chicago Personal Property Lease Transaction Tax apply to rental properties?
In Chicago, the Personal Property Lease Transaction Tax applies to rental properties leased for personal property use. This tax requires landlords to account for it in their lease agreements. Details about these regulations can be reviewed through the Chicago Lease Tax information.
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Tagged #city politics, 2025, advocacy, Chicago, cook county, Illinois, politics, Pritzker, property tax, rental property budget, Roy F. McCampbell, Roy McCampbell
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Illinois Employment Laws for 2025
Illinois Human Rights Act Amendments
Period to File Complaints: On January 1, 2025, several amendments to the Illinois Human Rights Act (“IHRA”) will go into effect. Notably, the amendments more than double the time period for filing a charge of discrimination, harassment, or retaliation. Complainants will now have 2 years from the date of the alleged violation – instead of the current 300 days – to file complaints with the Illinois Department of Human Rights.
Expanded Protected Classes: The amendments also add new protected classes to the IHRA.
Family Responsibilities: Under the amended Act, employers are prohibited from discriminating against an employee, or prospective employee, based upon the employee’s “family responsibilities.” Family responsibilities include an employee’s actual or perceived responsibilities to provide personal care to a family member. Personal care includes:
- activities related to meeting a covered family member’s basic medical, hygiene, nutritional, or safety needs are met;
- providing transportation to a family member who is unable to meet such needs;
- time spent providing emotional support to a covered family member with a serious health condition who is receiving inpatient or home care.
Reproductive Health Decisions: Similarly, the IHRA will prohibit discrimination on the basis of “reproductive health decisions.” In doing so, Illinois joins several other jurisdictions that prohibit discrimination on this basis. Reproductive health decisions include a person’s decisions regarding contraception, fertility care, assisted reproductive technologies, miscarriage management care, healthcare related to the continuation and or termination of pregnancy, and any pre-, intra-, or postnatal care.
Illinois Equal Pay Act Amendments
The Illinois Equal Pay Act will require that employers with 15 or more employees disclose “pay scale and benefits” in all job postings. The mandatory disclosures must include the wage or salary (or the wage or salary range), along with a general description of benefits and other forms of compensation, such as bonuses, stock options, and other incentives the employer plans to offer for the position. These pay disclosure requirements apply only to jobs that:
- will be performed, at least partially, in Illinois; or
- will be performed outside of Illinois if the hired employee will report to a supervisor, office, or other work site located in Illinois.
Another critical aspect is the emphasis on transparency regarding internal promotional opportunities. Employers are required to announce, post, or otherwise make known all opportunities for promotion to current employees no later than 14 calendar days after making an external job posting for the same position. Employers must also maintain records of job postings, pay scales, benefits, and wages for each position for at least five years. (Seyfarth’s prior update on these changes is available here.)
Worker Freedom of Speech Act
Reflective of the increased efforts limiting employers’ ability to conduct “captive audience” meetings, the Worker Freedom of Speech Act will prohibit employers from threatening to take or taking any adverse employment actions against employees for the following reasons:
- declining to participate or attend an employer-sponsored meeting if the meeting is to communicate about religious or political matters;
- as a means of inducing an employee to attend or participate in a meeting about religious or political matters; and
- making a good faith report of a violation or suspected violation of the Act.
Among other topics, “political matters” includes the decision to join or support a labor organization.
If an employer violates the Act, the aggrieved employee has one year after the date of the alleged violation to bring a civil action. A prevailing employee may be awarded injunctive relief, reinstatement, back pay, reinstated benefits, including seniority, reasonable attorney’s fees, and costs. The Illinois Department of Labor may also investigate alleged violations, and may recover up to $1,000 for each violation per affected employee.
Whistleblower Act Amendments
Amendments to the Whistleblower Act alter the definitions of several key statutory terms, including “adverse employment action,” which will include actions that “a reasonable employee would find materially adverse.” An action is materially adverse when it “could dissuade a reasonable worker from disclosing or threatening to disclose” certain information, including information concerning their employer’s activity, policy, or practice the employee believes violates or poses a “substantial and specific danger to employees, public health, or safety.”
It likewise includes and broadly defines “retaliatory actions” that employers are prohibited from engaging in. For instance, unlawful retaliation includes:
- taking action against employees who disclose or threaten to disclose information to any supervisor, principal officer, board member, or supervisor in an organization;
- contacting, threatening to contact, or otherwise reporting/threatening to report an employee’s suspected or actual citizenship or immigration status; or
- intentionally interfering with a former employee’s employment.
The amendments also include stricter penalties, providing aggrieved individuals with a private right of action in which they could recover up to $10,000 in liquidated damages as well as a $10,000 penalty, in addition to fees and costs. Likewise, the Attorney General is empowered to seek remedies under the Act and may request a civil penalty of up to $10,000 for each repeat violation within a 5-year period.
Overall, the amendments expand employees’ statutory protections under the Act due to the broadly defined statutory language. However, the Act now expressly provides an additional defense for employers to defeat claims provided that the alleged retaliatory action was based solely on grounds other than the employee’s statutorily protected conduct.
Child Labor Law of 2024
The Child Labor Law of 2024 repealed the previous Illinois child labor law and covers minors under the age of 16. The law specifies the allowable work hours and times for minors, such as not working more than 18 hours while school is in session (down from 24 hours) or not working more than 40 when school is out of session, but also provides certain exceptions. The law further clarifies that civil and criminal penalties can be imposed for violations and requires employers to obtain and maintain on the premises an employment certificate authorizing a minor’s work. Other notable aspects of the new law include:
- ensuring all minors are supervised by an adult 21 years or older while the minors are working;
- minors 13 years of age or younger cannot work in any occupation at any workplace unless they satisfy an exemption under the Act;
- an expansion of prohibited occupations for minors to work in, such as in any cannabis shops, barber, cosmetology, esthetics, hair braiding, and nail technology services requiring a license, or any other occupation determined by the Director to be hazardous.
Personnel Records Review Act Amendment
The recent amendment impose new obligations on employers, including the method for requesting personnel records and the intervals in which requests may be made.
Request Requirements: Requests need to be made to a person responsible for maintaining the employer’s personnel records and must identify the records an employee is requesting. The employee must specify whether they are requesting to inspect, copy, or receive copies of the records; if they elect to request copies, they must specify whether they want electronic or hard copy formats.
What Can Be Requested: The Amendment expands the types of records an employee may request. This now includes:
- any employment-related contracts or agreements that the employer maintains are legally binding on the employee;
- any personnel documents used to determine an employee’s qualifications for benefits and compensation;
- any employee handbooks that the employer made available to the employee or that the employee acknowledged receiving;
- any written employer policies or procedures that the employer contends the employee was subject to and that concern qualifications for employment, promotion, transfer, compensation, benefits, discharge, or other disciplinary action.
Additional Exception: The Amendment adds an exception to personnel records that must be disclosed, clarifying that the right to inspection does not apply to an “employer’s trade secrets, client lists, sales projections, and financial data.”
Wage Payment and Collection Act Amendment
Amendments to the Wage Payment and Collection Act change employers’ recordkeeping obligations. Employers will soon be required to retain copies of pay stubs for a minimum of three years after the date of payment, regardless of whether an employee’s employment ends during that period. Employers will also need to provide current or former employees with copies of their pay stubs within 21 days of a request. However, employers will not be required to approve more than two requests in a calendar year.
The amendments clarify the meaning of a “pay stub” under the Act, which includes “an itemized statement or statements reflecting an employee’s hours worked, rate of pay, overtime pay and overtime hours worked, gross wages earned, deductions made from the employee’s wages, and the total of wages and deductions year to date.”
For employers who provide electronic pay stubs that employees cannot access for a year following their separation, they must offer to provide, upon an employee’s separation of employment, a record of all pay stubs for the past year. Notably, employers must document this offer in writing, noting (1)the date the offer was made; and (2) the employee’s response.
Employers who fail to furnish a paystub or otherwise comply with these amendments will be subject to a civil penalty of up to $500 per violation.
Right to Privacy in the Workplace Amendments
As we recently reported, Illinois’s amended Right to Privacy in the Workplace Act reaffirms that Illinois employers may voluntarily use E-Verify systems, provided that the employer follows the requirements outlined in the Act. There is no ban or restriction against the voluntary use of E-Verify in Illinois, though the amendments prohibit an employer from imposing work authorization verifications (or re-verifications) beyond existing federal requirements. Moreover, the amendments impose additional obligations upon employers in an effort to enhance worker protections.
Notice Requirements:
- Inspections: Come January 1, 2025, employers must inform employees if their Form I-9 documentation will be inspected. Specifically, employees must be notified of any inspection within 72 hours of receipt, and where appropriate, employee representatives should also be notified.
- Discrepancies Known to Employers: When an employer receives notification from a federal or state agency of a discrepancy as it relates to work authorization, employers must provide written notice of the issue to the employee. Notice should be given via hand-delivery if possible, or alternatively by mail and email within five business days. The notice must include:
- an explanation of the determination;
- the time period for the employee to notify the employer if they wish to contest the determination;
- the time and date of any meeting with the employer or with the inspecting entity; and
- notice that the employee has the right to representation.
- Discrepancies Made by Inspecting Entities: Employers must also notify employees of discrepancies or suspect document determinations made by inspecting entities, such as Homeland Security Investigations. Once the inspection is completed, employees should have an opportunity to resolve any verification discrepancies. Employers must notify the employee within 5 business days (or sooner if federal law or a collective bargaining agreement requires). The notification must be hand delivered. If hand delivery is not possible then notice must be sent by mail and email.
The Health Care Worker Background Check Act Amendments
Comprehensive Community Mental Health Centers certified by the Department of Human Services (“DHS”) will now be subject to the Act’s requirements. Among other requirements, such employers must now terminate their employees if they are found to have:
- A disqualifying criminal conviction unless a waiver has been granted by the Illinois Department of Public Health;
- substantiated findings of physical or sexual abuse, neglect or financial exploitation;
- indicated findings of abuse or neglect reported by the DCFS Central Register/Child Abuse and Neglect Tracking System (CANTS) unless there is a waiver granted by DHS; or
- their name is listed on the Healthcare and Family Services (“HFS”) Office of the Inspector General Sanction List as not authorized for employment unless their employment is approved by HFS.
Non-Competes and Non-Solicitation Provisions
On August 9, 2024, Illinois declared non-compete and non-solicitation provisions entered into after January 1, 2025, as unenforceable if the provision is “likely to result in an increase in cost or difficulty for any veteran or first responder seeking mental health services.”
It also deemed all non-compete and non-solicitation provisions as “void and illegal” for any person employed in construction, regardless of the terms of any applicable collective bargaining agreement.
Changes to Armed Forces and Uniform Services Definition
Illinois expanded the definition of armed forces or uniformed services to specifically include members of the United States Space Force.
Next Steps for Employers: Employers should review existing applicable policies (including retention protocols) to ensure compliance with these Illinois updates, and train relevant HR, business, and management personnel on these new requirements as we head into 2025.
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Posted in #mentalhealthmonth, #taxation, blog, cannabis, Chicago, constitution, cook county, Crime, Dolton, Elections, Health, health risk, Illinois, Illinois Pensions, illinois politics, infrastructure, law, Law Offices of Roy F McCampbell, legal services, liability, mental health, minimum wage, police, political satire, politics, Population, Pritzker, referendum, robert martwick, Roy F McCampbell Blog Ranked #4 on the 20 Best Political Satire Blogs and Websites in 2024 for 5th year in a Row, Roy F. McCampbell, Schiller Park, search warrant, security camera, sexual assault, sexual harrassment, Social Media, social security, Taxation, theft, tips, Top 30 Political Satire Blogs and Websites in 2021, transgender, unconstitutional, US Supreme Court, USCongress, vaccines, wages
Tagged #city politics, 2025, advocacy, Chicago, cook county, human rights, Illinois, new laws, politics, Pritzker, Roy F. McCampbell, Roy McCampbell
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Predator Reportedly Targets a Woman at Richie’s Bar at 9812 Lawrence Avenue in Schiller Park
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Posted in blog, chokeholds, cocaine, constitution, cook county, corruption, Crime, Doxing, e cigarettes, Entertainment, Foxx, gambling, gangs, gasoline, health risk, Hey Jackass, Illinois, illinois politics, Kim Foxx, Kwame Raoul, law, Law Offices of Roy F McCampbell, left, legal services, Leyden, liability, marijuana, Mayor Caiafa, mental health, mental health days, meth, migrants, morphine, murder, News, police, police reform, politics, Qualified Immune, rape, Roy F McCampbell Blog Ranked #4 on the 20 Best Political Satire Blogs and Websites in 2024 for 5th year in a Row, Roy F. McCampbell, SAFE-T Act, sanctions, Schiller Park, Schiller Park Commentaries, schiller park police, schillerparkblog, search warrant, security camera, senator durbin, sexual assault, sexual harrassment, sexually transmitted disease, sleep, Social Media, theft, Top 20 Political Satire Blogs in 2024, top 30 blog, Top 30 Political Satire Blogs and Websites for 2023, Top 30 Political Satire Blogs and Websites in 2021, unconstitutional, Union, US Supreme Court, USCongress, vaping, vote, weed
Tagged #city politics, 9812 W. Lawrence Ave, Crime, Illinois, politics, predator, Richie’s Bar, Roy F. McCampbell, Roy McCampbell, Schiller Park, woman targeted
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Arsonist Fans the Flames in New York Subway Train
WARNING: GRAPHIC
This is the woman set on fire by the illegal in NYC. First, a cop walks by and does nothing. Then the arsonist starts fanning the flames with a jacket and the cop walks by him doing it! (Thanks for the comments about the perp fanning the flames)
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Posted in Biden, blog, bond, cannabis, cash bail, chokeholds, citizenship question, civil war, cocaine, color, constitution, corruption, coward, Crime, Deport, Derrick Chauvin, domestic violence, Doxing, Economy, election fraud, Elections, Entertainment, FBI, fire protection, firefighter, firemen, gangs, garbage, gasoline, George Floyd, Health, health risk, Hey Jackass, HIPPA, homelessness, injunction, intelligence, Latin Kings, law, Law Offices of Roy F McCampbell, left, legal services, liability, lobbying, marijuana, Medical, medical marijuana, mental health, mental health days, Merry Christmas, meth, migrants, morphine, murder, nanny state, News, police, police reform, political satire, politics, pollution, Population, Pritzker, rape, rioting, robbed, robert martwick, Roy F McCampbell Blog Ranked #4 on the 20 Best Political Satire Blogs and Websites in 2024 for 5th year in a Row, Roy F. McCampbell, SAFE-T Act, search warrant, security camera, senator durbin, sexual harrassment, Social Media, State of the Union, state representative, terrorist, Terrorists, Top 20 Political Satire Blogs in 2024, top 30 blog, Top 30 Political Satire Blogs and Websites for 2023, Top 30 Political Satire Blogs and Websites in 2021, Transportation, Trump, unconstitutional, Union, US Supreme Court, USCongress, vaping, vote, wages, War on Terror, weapon ban, weed, YouTube
Tagged #city politics, advocacy, deportation, fanning flames, migrants, New York, New York subway, politics, Roy F. McCampbell
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Roy F McCampbell Blog Ranked #4 on the 20 Best Political Satire Blogs and Websites in 2024 for 5th year in a Row
Posted in blog, corruption, Drone, election fraud, Elections, gangs, Hey Jackass, Illinois, illinois politics, law, Law Offices of Roy F McCampbell, legal services, mental health, mental health days, politics, Pritzker, referendum, rioting, Roy F McCampbell Blog Ranked #4 on the 20 Best Political Satire Blogs and Websites in 2024 for 5th year in a Row, Roy F. McCampbell, SAFE-T Act, schillerparkblog, Social Media, top 30 blog, Top 30 Political Satire Blogs and Websites for 2023, Top 30 Political Satire Blogs and Websites in 2021, US Supreme Court, USCongress, vote, where’s the beef
Tagged blog, Illinois, politics, Roy F. McCampbell, Roy McCampbell, top blog
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Is it legal to shoot down a drone in Illinois?
Drones are becoming an increasingly common sight around the United States.
For some, drones are seen as fascinating and innovative tools. For others, they may raise concerns about privacy and safety.
In New Jersey, a surge in mysterious drone activity has recently captured widespread attention. While these drones haven’t posed any immediate threats to public safety, they’ve sparked enough unease for at least one state official to controversially suggest shooting them down.
The situation in New Jersey has fueled a broader question: Is it even legal to shoot down a drone?
For Illinois, here are some considerations to keep in mind.
Federal law
First and foremost, the FAA considers recreational unmanned aircraft systems like drones to fall within regulatory definitions of an aircraft.
The situation in New Jersey has fueled a broader question: Is it even legal to shoot down a drone?
For Illinois, here are some considerations to keep in mind.
- Discharging a firearm at occupied buildings
- Discharging on school property or within 1,000 feet of school grounds
- Discharging toward occupied vehicles
- Discharging toward public safety personnel
Even if the intent is to shoot down a drone, missing the target or causing the bullet to strike within one of these contexts could escalate the offense to aggravated discharge of a firearm.
Additionally, according to Illinois Statute 620 ILCS 5/42, the regulation of unmanned aircraft systems (including drones) is the responsibility of the state, provided it aligns with federal law. This reinforces the idea that any actions involving drones, including shooting at them, generally fall under the state’s tightly controlled regulated framework.
Shooting at a drone would not only disrupt the state’s lawful operation, but could interfere with efforts to ensure the “safe and efficient operation of the unmanned aircraft” as described in the statute. As a result, shooting at a drone in Illinois could lead to legal consequences under both state and federal law.
Furthermore
Even if a particular instance of shooting at a drone were to align with state and federal laws, local ordinances may impose additional regulations.
Context is also important. While rare, one might attempt to argue in self-defense in shooting at a drone if its actions could be interpreted as posing an immediate or credible threat to personal safety. However, such cases could face heavy scrutiny under law.
If you’re concerned with drone activity or feel compelled to shoot down a drone, the safest course of action is to resist the temptation, report concerns to local law enforcement or the FAA, and follow any further guidance on navigating the situation.
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Tagged Drone, Illinois, Is it legal to shoot down a drone in Illinois?, politics, Pritzker, Roy F. McCampbell, Roy McCampbell, shooting
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Supreme Court won’t stop school district from hiding gender transition from parents
The U.S. Supreme Court will allow a Wisconsin school district policy requiring teachers to hide the preferred gender identity of a trans-identified student from their parents to remain in effect.
In an orders list released Monday morning, the high court declined without comment to hear oral arguments in the case of Parents Protecting Our Children, UA v. Eau Claire Area School District
The denial of appeal allows for a lower court decision in favor of the school district to remain in place that ruled that the parents’ group lacked standing, thus upholding a guidance on “gender identity support” for students to be implemented.
Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito, along with Justice Clarence Thomas, dissented against the denial of certiorari in comments included in the orders list, arguing that the relevant topics of the case warranted review.
“This case presents a question of great and growing national importance: whether a public school district violates parents’ ‘fundamental constitutional right to make decisions concerning the rearing of’ their children … when, without parental knowledge or consent, it encourages a student to transition to a new gender or assists in that process,” wrote Alito.
“I am concerned that some federal courts are succumbing to the temptation to use the doctrine of Article III standing as a way of avoiding some particularly contentious constitutional questions.”
In 2021, the Eau Claire Area School District issued a document known as “Administrative Guidance for Gender Identity Support,” which sought to expand inclusion for trans-identified students.
This led to the school district later adopting a “Gender Support Plan” template that, among other things, allowed for school officials to exclude parents from any possible gender transition efforts on the student.
In September 2022, a group of local parents filed a complaint against the school district in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Wisconsin under the unincorporated association Parents Protecting Our Children.
“ECASD requires a school and its staff to hold secret meetings with children to develop a ‘Student Gender Support Plan.’ At the same time, when interacting with the child’s parents, the Gender Identity Policy requires school officials, teachers, and administrators to continue using the child’s actual name and pronouns so the parents will not be alerted to the changes the school has made,” reads the complaint.
“The obvious purpose of such secrecy is to prevent parents from making critical decisions for their own minor children, from interfering with the school’s ideologically-driven activities, from caring for their children, or from freely practicing their religion. … The insidious invasion of parental rights at issue in this case cannot be tolerated by a free people who value liberty.”
Eau Claire Area School District Board of Education President Tim Nordin has defended the support program in comments to Wisconsin Public Radio in 2022 as necessary to help marginalized students.
“And for some students, in some situations, we have to understand the context of that and know that if they’re not safe and they trust an adult at the school, that might be the only adult that they have to trust in their lives,” said Nordin. “And that’s important to keeping children safe.”
In March, the 7th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled against the parents, upholding a lower court decision from last year siding with the school district and its support program.
The appeals court concluded in part that since the policy has not directly impacted any of the parents suing the school district as of the present, they lack the standing to lodge the complaint.
“No doubt Parents Protecting’s allegations punch with conviction and concern. But nowhere does the complaint allege that even one of the association’s members — any particular parent — has experienced an actual or imminent injury attributable to the Administrative Guidance or a Support Plan,” read the appeals court opinion.
“Parents Protecting’s expressions of worry and concern do not suffice to show that any parent has experienced actual injury or faces any imminent harm attributable to the Administrative Guidance or a Gender Support Plan. Maybe that day will come for a member parent. Maybe not. All we can say with certainty today is that Parents Protecting’s allegations fall short of establishing a Case or Controversy.”
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Tagged Eau Claire Area School District, gender identity policy, hiding gender transition, politics, Roy F. McCampbell, US Supreme Court, Wisconsin
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Cunningham Law Stifling Tow Companys’ Shady Practices Takes Effect January 1, 2025
Starting on Jan. 1, 2025, State Senator Bill Cunningham’s new law eliminates questionable fees towing companies charge and gets rid of shady shakedowns over lifesaving medical devices.
“I was furious to find out that car owners cannot recover their personal medical devices, like hearing aids, from their vehicles – even if their vehicle is stolen and later towed,” Cunningham said in news release. “Holding medical devices hostage is going way too far, and punitive tricks to maximize profits just give people another reason not to trust the towing industry.”
The legislation was brought to Cunningham, a Democrat who represents portions of Chicago and the Southwest Suburbs, from a constituent of the 18th District. The constituent’s vehicle was stolen from outside their residence in Chicago and was eventually located by police and towed in Alsip. The constituent did not find out where their vehicle was located until a week after it was recovered, receiving a letter in the mail from a suburban towing company that was holding the vehicle. When the constituent went to recover the vehicle, they were told they would have to pay a fee of $1,500, and were not allowed to recover a hearing aid from the vehicle until the fee was paid.
With Cunningham’s measure going into effect on Jan. 1, 2025, towing companies who already charge an arm and a leg to recover your vehicle after it was stolen from you, will no longer be allowed to charge storage fees on the vehicle while it’s at their compound. The law will also stifle questionable actions by towing companies, which include not returning personal medical property and textbooks until they get paid.
“Imagine if your vehicle was improperly towed and the towing company is shaking you down for a thousand bucks before they’ll give you your hearing aids,” said Cunningham. “I’m glad that we have ended this practice here in Illinois.”
Cunningham’s law, Public Act 103-0756, passed the Illinois Senate 59-0 in April of this year, the Illinois House 109-0 in May and was subsequently signed by the governor in August. The law takes effect on Jan. 1, 2025.
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