Both were subjects of new laws signed by Ill. Gov. Pat Quinn today.
One new law will toughen safety measures on a chemical used by dry cleaners.
Gov. Pat Quinn signed the measure Friday. It includes improved containment systems, better training and more comprehensive reporting for the use of perchloroethylene.
Quinn says if the chemical isn't handled properly it can seep into the groundwater and is harmful to the workers who use it. Perc is a known carcinogen.
Under the law, beginning in 2013, all new dry-cleaning machines must have two control systems to reduce the concentration of the chemicals. By 2014, the machines will have to have sealed containment structures to contain leaks or spills.
Interim Illinois EPA Director John Kim says the law will significantly reduce future contamination of wells used for drinking water in Illinois.
Online Dating
Also signed into law by Quinn today was the Internet Dating Safety Act.
According to Quinn's office, the act requires the following practices by online dating services:
- Requires services to tell users whether they do or do not conduct criminal background checks,
- If a background check is conducted, but still allow those with criminal convictions to access the service, the service must state that it is not "foolproof."
- A safety awareness notification to service users from the service is also required by the law.
Both new laws are effective immediately.
Follow Kelsey Proud on Twitter: @KelseyProud
