New Illinois Laws Going Into Effect July 1st

July 1st is right around the corner, and with it comes several new Illinois laws that could affect everything from how seniors renew their driver's licenses to how school handle AI-generated cyberbullying.

Every year, new legislation takes effect across the state, but some changes tend to grab more attention than others. This summer, Illinois residents will see updates involving e-bikes and other electronic transportation devices, new protections for students facing AI-generated harassment, and less restrictive rules for older drivers renewing their licenses.

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New Illinois Laws Rolling Out July 1: The Full Breakdown

E-BIKES, E-SCOOTERS, SKATEBOARDS, ETC

One of the biggest changes creates a statewide framework for regulating e-bikes, e-scooters, skateboards, and other micromobility devices. State officials say the law is designed to improve safety as injuries and fatalities involving these devices have increased dramatically in recent years.

"This legislation creates uniform classifications and operational standards for low-speed e-bikes, electric scooters (e-scooters), skateboards, unicycles and similar devices, while clarifying when high-speed devices are regulated as motor-driven cycles under the Illinois Vehicle Code" [iml]

CYBERBULLYING PREVENTION / ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

Artificial intelligence is a growing concern throughout schools across the country, and Illinois cracking down. AI is being used to create fake, sexually explicit images of students. The new legislation is diving into cyberbullying a little further and gives school districts more authority to respond when AI-generated content is used to target or bully students in their schools.

“Beginning in the 2026-2027 school year, “‘cyber-bullying’ also includes the posting or distribution of an unauthorized digital replica by electronic means” if the post creates fear or harm for the student, hurts the student’s physical or mental health, or interferes with the student’s academic performance or the ability to participate in other services, activities or privileges provided by the school." [illinoispolicy]

SENIOR DRIVING TESTS 75+

Illinois is raising the age at which drivers must complete behind-the-wheel tests and increasing the age for mandatory in-person license renewals. Originally the age was 75, now they've moved it up to 79. The changes could reduce unnecessary burdens on older residents while maintaining roadway safety.

"The bill also adds to the Illinois Vehicle Code that an applicant over age 87, or 75 if the person holds a commercial driver’s license, “must prove, by actual demonstration,” that they can safely operate a vehicle." [illinoispolicy]