Villanueva fights to advance environmental justice protections in Illinois

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Celina Villanueva is leading legislation that would strengthen environmental justice protections by ensuring state regulators consider the potential impacts on communities that have historically faced disproportionate environmental burdens when reviewing pollution control permits.

“For too long, communities already facing environmental burdens have been forced to carry a disproportionate share of pollution and its impacts,” Villanueva (D-Chicago) said. “This legislation ensures that environmental justice is part of the decision-making process so we can better protect the health and well-being of residents across Illinois.”

Senate Bill 3772 would require the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency to evaluate environmental justice factors when reviewing certain air pollution construction permit applications.

Read more: Villanueva fights to advance environmental justice protections in Illinois

Morrison measure that would strengthen crime victims’ rights advances

DEERFIELD — As part of an initiative from the Illinois Attorney General, State Senator Julie Morrison is sponsoring a measure that would strengthen rights of crime victims and provide additional resources to medical facilities performing forensic examinations.

“It’s an honor to work with the Attorney General’s office on such impactful legislation that would strengthen the rights of crime victims and provide additional resources to medical facilities,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest).

The measure works to strengthen rights of crime victims and provide additional resources to medical facilities performing forensic examination.

Read more: Morrison measure that would strengthen crime victims’ rights advances

Villanueva leads measure to strengthen charter school accountability

SPRINGFIELD – A measure led by State Senator Celina Villanueva to strengthen financial accountability and protect students and families when charter schools face financial instability passed the Illinois Senate Executive Committee Wednesday.

“When a school suddenly shuts its doors, it is the students, families and educators who are left scrambling,” Villanueva (D-Chicago) said. “This legislation ensures there are clear safeguards in place so communities are not blindsided by closures and public resources are properly protected.”

Senate Bill 3391 would require charter school operators to formally execute renewal agreements within 90 days of approval and establish stronger financial safeguards to ensure students, staff and public resources are protected if a charter school closes.

Read more: Villanueva leads measure to strengthen charter school accountability

Cunningham legislation supports solar development on public school campuses

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Bill Cunningham has advanced legislation to help Illinois public schools develop solar energy projects.

“As the federal administration cuts back on clean energy, we want to provide schools with alternative energy opportunities that will lower costs and benefit students,” said Cunningham, a Democrat who represents portions of Chicago and the Southwest Suburbs. “This legislation will streamline the process so districts can install solar projects without unnecessary delays.”

Read more: Cunningham legislation supports solar development on public school campuses