The new year marks about 150 new laws that go into effect in Illinois. Some have been well publicized, like a $3 per-person surcharge for those entering strip clubs that will be donated to charity, or making it a crime for parents to allow minors to drink in their homes.
But others are a little more obscure, and in some cases, cause a little head-scratching as to why there wasn't already a law in the first place. Here's a rundown of some of the stranger sides to Illinois legislation for 2013. (In all cases, "HB" and "SB" indicate "House Bill" and "Senate Bill" respectively. A full list can be found here.)
SB 2949 - Non-religious universities must now allow students to reschedule an exam or class if there is a religious reason, unless there is "unnecessary hardship" created.
HB 4691 - Ambulances are no longer required to pay tolls.
HB 5101 - Drivers of commercial vehicles may no longer text or use a handheld phone while driving.
SB 3336 - Inline skaters may now travel in traffic, as long as they meet certain conditions.
SB 3579 - Child sex offenders are prohibited from participating in holiday events, like handing out candy on Halloween or dressing as Santa, "unless under specific circumstances."
HB 4440 - Creates a formal process for senior "free ride" cards for public transportation to be revoked or voided upon the person's death.
SB 3237 - The City of Chicago must provide all licensed plumbers with hard plastic photo ID cards.
HB 5314 -- Landlords can now email itemized bills to tenants for damages to the rental property.
HB 5056 - It's now a crime to use a dead persons handicapped parking sign or license plate.
HB 3888 - Law enforcement officials can now order boat owners to remove plant or animal life from their boats, to prevent the spread of invasive species.
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