New Munoz law makes genetic medical testing more accessible

SPRINGFIELD - Biomarker testing — the medical technology used to determine medical risk factors like cancer — will be covered under state-regulated insurance plans, thanks to a measure sponsored by Assistant Majority Leader Tony Munoz (D-Chicago) that was signed into law today.

“Patients looking to find answers about their health issues will now be able to without worrying about the costs,” Munoz said. “State-regulated insurance plans will cover biomarker testing, which helps figure out the right treatment at the right time to improve the quality of life for patients.”

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Van Pelt expands TANF for formerly incarcerated

SPRINGFIELD – Any person who has been convicted for a drug-related offense under state or federal law is currently prohibited from being eligible for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families. State Senator Patricia Van Pelt (D-Chicago) led an initiative to reverse that, which was signed by the governor Friday.

“Even after people serve their time, they still struggle when reentering society, and have many rights continuously taken from them,” Van Pelt. “They are released and everything around them has changed, except their ability to fend for themselves has become harder due to their status.”

Read more: Van Pelt expands TANF for formerly incarcerated

Koehler’s Vegetable Garden Protection Act signed into law

SPRINGFIELD – Illinois residents will have their right to grow vegetable gardens protected thanks to legislation presented by State Senator Dave Koehler (D-Peoria) that was signed into law Friday.

“Every Illinoisan should have the option to grow their own food and increase their self-sufficiency without unnecessary oversight or regulations,” Koehler said. “I’m glad to see this legislation signed into law as I know it will expand options for people across the state when it comes to providing for themselves and their families.”

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Feigenholtz teams up with Senate Colleagues

Creates Historic Statewide Affordable Housing Law

CHICAGO – More Illinois residents will have affordable housing options thanks to a measure championed by a team of State Senators Sara Feigenholtz (D-Chicago), Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago) and Ann Gillespie (D-Arlington Heights) that was signed into law Thursday.

“One of Illinois’ biggest challenges has always been affordable housing, which was amplified during the pandemic,” Feigenholtz said. “Housing was our top priority this legislative session. Finding a way to provide incentives to local mom-and-pop landlords and new developments to keep rent affordable for future and existing tenants was the goal of this legislation.”

Read more: Feigenholtz teams up with Senate Colleagues