Collins celebrates another consumer protection win with new law

SPRINGFIELD– State Senator Jacqueline Collins successfully championed a new consumer protection measure, this time tackling predatory arrangements in litigation finance between legal funding companies and consumers.

“When a person has to seek legal remedy for an injury or wrongdoing, their ability to live comfortably hinges on financial stability,” said Collins (D-Chicago). “We have to make sure companies offering aid through legal funding transactions do not extort the people they serve under the guise of helping them stay afloat during difficult times.”

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Belt-supported laws prioritize law enforcement officials

EAST ST. LOUIS – State Senator Christopher Belt supported a number of measures signed into law aimed at helping law enforcement – including mental health support, pay increases, retention incentives, retirement assistance, day care help and other benefits.

“Law enforcement officials protect our communities,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “I was proud to vote for these laws that offer support and ensure that police officers have the tools and training to do their job.”

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New Gillespie law to improve staffing and care at nursing homes

CHICAGO – To improve conditions at nursing homes across Illinois, a new law to reform how the state assesses and reimburses nursing facilities, and link funding to staffing levels and quality of care, championed by State Senator Ann Gillespie, was signed into law on Tuesday.

“Despite years of increasing funding for staffing, many of Illinois’ long-term care facilities willingly remain understaffed,” said Gillespie (D-Arlington Heights). “Tying funding to adequate staffing and quality of care will bring an enhanced level of accountability and improve care given to residents.”

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Holmes’ new law targets Kendall County Courthouse expansion to serve rapidly growing county

SPRINGFIELD – Assistant Senate Majority Leader Linda Holmes (D-Aurora) sponsored legislation this spring to help the Kendall County Courthouse grow to serve demand for additional facilities and more timely resolution of court cases. That bill was signed into law Friday.

Senate Bill 3737 will allow the county to finish space that was built but never completed, and to house additional judicial staff hired to support the increasing needs for court services in the growing county.

“Kendall County was the fastest growing county in the U.S. from 2000 to 2010, and the fastest growing county in Illinois from 2010 to 2020, having grown its population by 141% since 2000,” Holmes said. “Population growth means the courthouse needs expanding to meet the county’s legal proceedings, and I’m happy to help make this happen.”

Read more: Holmes’ new law targets Kendall County Courthouse expansion to serve rapidly growing county