A look at new laws set to take effect in 2024

Good morning, Chicago.

More than 300 new state laws take effect on Jan. 1, affecting everything from education and criminal justice to employee benefits and indoor vaping, with most reflecting the priorities of Gov. J.B. Pritzker and his allies in the Democratic-controlled legislature.

Here’s a look at some of the laws that kick in with the new year from the Tribune’s Jeremy Gorner and Dan Petrella.

And here are the top stories you need to know to start your day.

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Downticks in both violent and nonviolent crime rates on CTA trains are welcome news for the agency, where ridership remains below pre-pandemic levels and where President Dorval Carter has contended with rider complaints about service, safety and conditions on trains and buses.