With the new year, more than 200 laws take effect in Illinois. Most of them are boring – here’s the list – but here are our favorites:

º When getting a divorce, courts will now consider your “furry” kids – dogs, cats, and other pets. Pets will no longer be considered “assets;” judges are expected to take into account what’s in the best interest of the pet.

º All signage, including “for sale” stickers and pricing, must be removed from the windshield and side windows before a car can be driven off the lot. A young man died on a test-drive.

º Corn is designated as the official state grain of Illinois.

º Worried that a business will sue you if you talk bad about them online? “The Yelp Law” will protect you from posting that the chicken tastes like rubber.

º Beginning Jan 1, you’ll be able to scatter ashes in Illinois state parks. Look out, Kickapoo!