New Illinois laws aim to help families, children
New Illinois laws which are in effect in 2008 include those that offer more protection for children and address domestic violence and adoption. Laws were also passed to strengthen Illinois’ public education system.
- Child Support (SB 1035). A new Illinois law makes two changes: it authorizes municipalities to impound motor vehicles owned by responsible relatives who are delinquent in child support payments, and it prevents the issuing or allowing or renewing of a driver’s license to any responsible relative who is delinquent of 90 days or more in child support payments based on a court order or an administrative order.
- Domestic Violence (HB 900). A new law may extend the sentence of a person already convicted of domestic battery who commits first degree murder.
- Sex Crimes Against Children (SB 697). A new crime law of aggravated child pornography was created that prohibits the transmission over the internet of pornography involving a person who is or appears to be under age 13. Violation can result in prison time and a fine of up to $100,000.
- Education (HB 18, HB 1648, SB 1463). Among several new laws is one that creates an Education Committee Council to be chaired by the Governor that will make recommendations to improve all levels of education and the transition of students into employment. In 2008, every school must adopt a bullying policy and file it with the State Board of Education. And, it will now be mandatory for each teacher to observe a moment of silence at the start of each school day.
- Adoption Act (SB 68). This new law makes two changes to the Illinois Adoption Act. It clarifies that children are entitled to inheritance rights if their adoptive parents die before the adoption is completed, and it allows the Department of Children and Family Services to provide financial assistance for the gap between the death of a child’s adoptive parents and the completion of a new adoption.
To find out whether any of the new laws apply to your situation, consult with an attorney.
Note: This information was prepared as a public service by the Illinois State Bar Association and is a joint project with the Illinois Press Association. Its purpose is to inform citizens of their legal rights and obligations.
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If you have questions about the application of the law in a particular case, consult your lawyer. The law is constantly changing. Information on this site or any site to which we link does not constitute legal advice.