Pay Bump for Tipped Workers And Other New Laws

A handful of new laws are set to go into effect Monday. Here’s what to know and how you could be affected.

Chicago

Minimum, Subminimum Wage Changes

The minimum wage will rise 40 cents to $16.20 next week. Subminimum wage for tipped workers is getting phased out: Employees like restaurant servers and bartenders will see hourly wages increase from $9.48 to $11.02. That wage will increase 8% each year until 2028, when the subminimum wage matches the full minimum wage.

Paid Leave Ordinance

Chicago workers will be eligible for 10 days of paid time off a year if they work at least 80 hours within a 120-day period. The law provides for five days of paid leave and five days of paid sick leave.

Illinois

Gas Tax Bump

The state’s tax on gasoline and diesel fuel is going up by a couple cents each. The increases began in 2019.

Driver’s Licenses for Undocumented Immigrants

Undocumented immigrants will be able to get a state driver’s license instead of the temporary one many currently have. Among other requirements, they must pass a driving test and prove they've lived in Illinois for a year.

Child Influencer Protections

Illinois became the first state to pass legislation on child influencers by amending the Child Labor Law. If a parent earns income from their child’s likeness on social media, they are required to put a portion of gross earnings in a trust fund the child can access when they turn 18.