Illinois Senate Democratic Caucus files comprehensive civil rights legislation in response to ICE activities

SPRINGFIELD – Members of the Illinois Senate Democratic Caucus filed landmark legislation designed to protect Illinois residents' constitutional rights and ensure safe access to critical public services amid heightened federal immigration enforcement activities in Chicago and across the state.

The legislation comes in response to reports of aggressive federal immigration enforcement tactics in Chicago and other Illinois communities that have raised concerns about constitutional rights violations and the chilling effect on access to essential services.

House Bill 1312, sponsored by Senate President Don Harmon, would allow Illinois residents to bring civil actions against any person who deprives them of their constitutional rights under the Fourth Amendment of the United States Constitution, or Section 2 or Section 6 of Article 1 of the Illinois Constitution.

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Hastings announces legislation to ensure fair homeowners insurance rates for Illinois families

SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Michael E. Hastings was joined at a press conference Wednesday by Senators Willie Preston, Paul Faraci, Meg Loughran Cappel, Christopher Belt and Doris Turner to announce new legislation designed to protect homeowners from excessive insurance rate increases and ensure fairness, transparency and accountability in Illinois homeowners insurance.

"When you open that renewal notice from your insurance company and your premium has gone up 30% or more, it is like stepping on a Lego at six in the morning — you didn’t do anything wrong, but you are definitely feeling it," said Hastings (D-Frankfort). "Across Illinois, homeowners insurance premiums have jumped 20% to 30% over the past year. Our neighbors are asking themselves, 'What did I do to cause this? I did not file a claim. I did not move. I did not change a thing, but my rates still went up.' And they are right to ask that question.”

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Koehler brings $10 million to local roads, highlights safety and congestion benefits

PEORIA — State Senator Dave Koehler helped secure a $10 million commitment to reconstruct and modernize Sheridan Road, as part of a larger round of projects funded through the state’s multi-year transportation program.

“The investment in modernizing Sheridan Road will enhance the lives of residents and visitors alike, as every mile of road we repair contributes to the longevity of Illinois’ transportation,” said Koehler (D-Peoria). “This project will connect residents to jobs, schools, and businesses, while improving the interconnectivity of our state.” 

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Stadelman applauds the reopening of Rockford Brake Manufacturing

ROCKFORD — State Senator Steve Stadelman praised Monday’s announcement that the historic Rockford Brake Manufacturing factory is reopening following an Economic Development for Growing Economy (EDGE) for Startups agreement – bringing $6.6 million and 150 new job opportunities to the Rockford region.

“This announcement highlights a welcome return on public investment in our workforce and emphasizes the importance of the automotive industry in Rockford’s economy,” said Stadelman (D-Rockford). “This investment enables the Rockford Brake Manufacturing company to revitalize their machinery and take part in the growing commercial vehicle industry.”

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