SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) - A snapshot of proposed legislation for Illinois lawmakers to consider in the 2016 session, which begins Wednesday:
- RECALLS: Chicago voters would have the power to launch recalls against mayors, a response to public outcry over recent police shootings. State law currently allows only a governor to be recalled.
- FANTASY SPORTS: Identical proposals in the House and Senate seek to regulate fantasy sports gambling. Among other things, the bills would forbid employees of fantasy sports companies from participating in the contests or sharing confidential information to help others win. The state attorney general has declared daily fantasy sports betting illegal.
- POLICE BODY CAMERAS: Police departments in municipalities with more than 1 million residents would have to require officers use body cameras. Last year, lawmakers passed guidelines for the cameras’ use but did not mandate that officers wear the devices.
- TRAFFIC CAMERAS: Municipalities would be prohibited from using traffic cameras that catch speeders and drivers who run red lights.
- GUN TAXES: Taxes on firearms and firearm parts would increase to 10 percent from 6.25 percent. The money raised would go into a fund for at-risk youth.
- RELIGIOUS FREEDOM: The measure would prevent state and local governments from taking action against individuals or organizations who cite in legal cases their religious beliefs as reason to refuse service to gay people.
- CONCUSSION REPORTING: High schools with certified athletic trainers would be required to compile monthly reports on the number of students who suffer concussions.
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