As of Monday, multiple laws have been implemented in both Iowa and Illinois. Here are some noteworthy changes to keep in mind.
Illinois is a state located in the Midwestern region of the United States.
According to the Illinois Department of Revenue, there has been an increase of approximately 2 cents in taxes on gas. These new rates are set to remain in effect until June 30, 2025.
House Bill 3882 now allows undocumented immigrants to obtain a standard driver’s license in Illinois.
Gov. Pritzker’s office has issued a media release stating that the legislation was passed to improve road safety and ensure the protection of all immigrants who hold a legal driving license.
To be eligible to drive in Illinois, individuals must pass a driving test, possess valid insurance, provide identification documents, and demonstrate that they have been a resident of the state for at least one year.
Governor Pritzker expressed his belief that the new legislation marks a significant milestone towards eliminating the obstacles that undocumented immigrants often face. He noted that the measure will provide all eligible individuals with the ability to obtain a driver’s license, thus enhancing road safety, reducing stigma, and promoting equitable systems for everyone.
Iowa is a state located in the Midwestern region of the United States.
According to the website of Iowa’s Area Education Agencies, AEAs play a crucial role in providing students with access to educational resources and opportunities. They also equip educators with professional development tools to enhance their skills and knowledge. Moreover, AEAs are responsible for ensuring that teachers receive competitive salaries that reflect their dedication and hard work in the field of education.
House File 2612 brings about certain modifications to AEA funding. For the following academic year, the current model for special education remains unchanged. School districts will still have to utilize AEAs for all special education funding. However, in the subsequent year, school districts will receive special education funds, and they must allocate 90% of those funds to AEAs.
School districts are granted greater flexibility when it comes to media and education services funds. This is because the Area Education Agencies (AEAs) receive 40% of these funds, thereby allowing districts to have a discretionary 60%.
The school districts will have complete authority over the funds for the upcoming academic year.
Under the new law, teachers’ salaries will see a significant increase, with a minimum salary of $47,500 for teachers with less than 12 years of experience and a minimum salary of $60,000 for those with 12 or more years of experience. This will provide a boost to the morale and motivation of teachers, who play a crucial role in shaping the future of our society.
Starting in July 2025, teachers who have less than 12 years of experience will earn a minimum salary of $50,000, while those with a minimum of 12 years of experience will receive a minimum of $62,000.
Under House File 2586, school districts with a minimum of eight thousand students are required to hire at least one private school security officer or school resource officer at every high school. This mandate can be overridden if a majority of the board of directors of the school district vote against it.
It is recommended that school districts with less than eight thousand students hire at least one private school security officer or school resource officer to be stationed at each high school.
School employees from school districts, private schools, or institutions of higher education can obtain a permit to carry weapons under the law.
Before obtaining their permit, employees are required to finish a firearms safety training course. Additionally, they will receive legal training, which covers qualified immunity, as well as annual training in emergency medical and communication skills.
When an employee with a permit utilizes reasonable force in a school, they and their district will be granted qualified immunity from any criminal or civil liability for related damages.
Employees holding these permits will have their identities kept confidential.