What is The Black Laws of Illinois in The Fiery Trial: Abraham Lincoln and American Slavery by Eric Foner?

Illinois was a free state. That, however, didn't stop the state from imposing stringent laws on the African Americans living there. Blacks were not allowed an education, and it was forbidden to teach them how to read or write. Free blacks were also forced to post bond before entering the state. Black Laws were repealed in 1865.