More than half of all Americans say religion is a very important part of their lives.

Today on the 21st:  A new year means new laws, and this year more than 250 took effect here in Illinois. We'll talk about some of the most notable, and some that may have slipped under your radar. Plus, along with politics and money, religion is one of those taboo topics we’re told to avoid. But a new public radio podcast explores the messiness of faith with people from all walks of life. We spoke to host Lee Hale about his show, “Preach.”