New Year’s Day means the start of a number of new laws in Illinois, including a bump in the state’s minimum wage.

Minimum-wage workers will get a raise next Saturday, when the state’s hourly rate increases from the current level of $11 to $12. The minimum wage in Illinois is ramping up to $15 an hour by 2025.

Sam Toia, President and CEO of the Illinois Restaurant Association, joins Ilyce Glink, filling in for Anna Davlantes, in discussing why people are canceling their reservations and why restaurants need to stay open. They also talk about Mayor Lightfoot’s new COVID mandates.

Director of the state Office of Broadband, Matt Schmit, says getting broadband internet to more people is now a necessity.

“Whether it’s for distance learning or remote work, telehealth, staying connected with family members and your community, broadband connectivity is absolutely essential.”

The Illinois State Police announced over the weekend that its Merit Board is now accepting applications for the 2022 Centennial Academy Classes.

2022, the ISP’s centennial year, will see Cadet Classes 137 and 138 graduate from the Illinois State Police Academy.