Welcome to the Illinois Senate Democratic Caucus

Faraci law to expand financial freedom for individuals with disabilities

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Paul Faraci’s measure that will modify how individuals with developmental disabilities are made aware of critical money-saving resources through the Senator Scott Bennett ABLE Program was signed into law Friday.

“This law will be essential for uplifting individuals with disabilities and their families so they can make real strides toward financial independence without violating SSI and Medicaid’s benefit eligibility rules,” said Faraci (D-Champaign). “With just a small change, we’re providing tangible relief to residents who are looking to maximize saving for their future and ensuring the Scott Bennett ABLE Program is accessible to everyone in need.”

Read more: Faraci law to expand financial freedom for individuals with disabilities

Fine-backed Diaper Labeling Act signed into law

SPRINGFIELD – Legislation championed by State Senator Laura Fine to require clear ingredient labeling on diaper packaging has been signed into law, ensuring parents and caregivers have straightforward, reliable information about the products their children use every day.

“Families should have easy access to information about the products their children rely on,” said Fine (D Glenview). “By requiring ingredient disclosure on diaper packaging, this law gives parents greater confidence and helps them make choices that are right for their children.”

Concerns from parents, caregivers, and individuals with sensitivities to fragrances and other chemicals highlighted a gap in consumer information surrounding diaper products. While adults using medical-device-classified diapers are afforded certain ingredient disclosure protections under federal regulations, infant and children’s diapers have not been subject to the same transparency standards.

Read more: Fine-backed Diaper Labeling Act signed into law

Halpin measure to keep track of Illinois student loan market signed into law

SPRINGFIELD – In the face of higher student debt for many in Illinois and across the country, State Senator Mike Halpin’s measure to keep track of the private student loan borrowing market has been signed into law.

“Student loans present a critical burden to students, graduates and their families,” said Halpin (D-Rock Island). “We need to keep track of the private student loan market in Illinois to get a sense of exactly how large that burden is and what the state needs to do to mitigate those effects.”

Read more: Halpin measure to keep track of Illinois student loan market signed into law

Castro law to establish Illinois’ own Blue Envelope Program

SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Cristina Castro spearheaded a new law that will provide ease of communication between police officers and drivers with an autism spectrum disorder.

“Strong communities depend on strong partnerships between residents and law enforcement,” said Castro (D-Elgin). “When officers can more effectively serve their communities, it leads to improved trust, accountability and outcomes for everybody.”

Nationwide, the Blue Envelope Program is a community-driven, voluntary initiative designed to improve communication and reduce stress during encounters between law enforcement and individuals with autism spectrum disorder. Advocacy groups such as the Autism Hero Project have led efforts to establish Blue Envelope Programs in states such as Massachusetts, Connecticut and Virginia.

Read more: Castro law to establish Illinois’ own Blue Envelope Program