Hastings builds on missing persons identification methods
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SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Michael E. Hastings is building on his missing persons investigation work by advancing legislation that would accelerate the timeline for critical forensic data being added to state and national databases.
“Families dealing with a missing loved one should not have to wait for answers,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort). “This legislation would ensure vital information, such as dental records, gets into the right law enforcement systems sooner — increasing the likelihood of timely matches and helping law enforcement and families get results.”
Under current law, missing persons cases are entered into state and federal databases and may eventually receive additional identifying data. Senate Bill 2949 would update the process so that if a person remains missing for 30 days after a police report, their dental record will be added to the Law Enforcement Agencies Data System — rather than waiting longer under previous practice. After 60 days, the bill would require dental records to be entered into the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System, the federal repository used to match missing persons with unidentified remains.
Read more: Hastings builds on missing persons identification methods
Holmes and PaintCare roll out household paint recycling program in Illinois
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SPRINGFIELD –State Senator Linda Holmes welcomed representatives of PaintCare, Inc. to the Capitol to announce early progress in the new statewide household paint recycling program, created by Holmes’ 2024 Paint Stewardship Act.
Many households and businesses have old, unused cans of paint in their basements or garages; there have been few options to dispose of them safely. Beginning in December of 2025, designated collection centers at familiar paint retailers began opening across the state for environmentally safe disposal.
Holmes’ Paint Stewardship Act was passed and signed in 2024, and the program has been in development by PaintCare and their stewardship cohorts throughout 2025.
Read more: Holmes and PaintCare roll out household paint recycling program in Illinois
Collins proudly welcomes $40.5 million manufacturing expansion of DMG MORI in Chicago
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CHICAGO – State Senator Lakesia Collins joined Governor JB Pritzker, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, the Illinois Economic Development Corporation and Chicago city officials to announce more than $40.5 million is being invested by DMG MORI Federal Services, Inc. to create a new R&D facility in the Chicagoland area with 74 new full-time positions.
“As the state senator representing Illinois’ 5th Senate District, I am proud to welcome DMG MORI’s expansion in our community,” said Collins (D-Chicago). “This investment reminds me how powerful it is when people come together to learn and uplift our neighborhoods.”
DMG MORI, a leading global manufacturer of high-precision machine tools with its North American headquarters in Hoffman Estates, has committed to establishing a new advanced manufacturing and R&D facility in Chicago. The company has identified a site featuring 25,000 square feet of office space and 65,000 square feet of advanced manufacturing space to support the growth of the company.
Read more: Collins proudly welcomes $40.5 million manufacturing expansion of DMG MORI in Chicago
Castro leads the charge on cellphone ban in classrooms
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OAK PARK - State Senator Cristina Castro held a press conference alongside Governor JB Pritzker to advocate for legislation she’s spearheading that would prohibit cellphones in classrooms.
“Every student in Illinois deserves a quality education in a productive and welcoming setting,” said State Senator Cristina Castro (D-Elgin). “Reducing the harms of constant cellphone usage by students in the classroom supports academic achievement and ensures the best environment possible for learning and growth.”
Nearly 75% of high school teachers say cellphone distraction in their classroom is a major problem. Castro is spearheading Senate Bill 2427 to support learning environments where teachers can focus on teaching and students can focus on learning. The measure would require school districts in Illinois to adopt a policy limiting the use of wireless communication devices on school grounds during the day – from “bell to bell.”
Read more: Castro leads the charge on cellphone ban in classrooms
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Ellman commemorates opening of new Philip J. Rock Center and School facility for deaf-blind students
GLEN ELLYN — State Senator Laura Ellman joined local, state and community leaders to celebrate the grand opening of the new Philip J. Rock Center and School, the nation’s only publicly-funded residential school dedicated to serving students who are d... -
SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Doris Turner presented a resolution to recognize and honor the contributions of Eva Carroll Monroe. “Eva Carroll Monroe was a trailblazer in child welfare, opening her door for Black children,” said Turner (D-Springfield)... -
MOLINE – In order to integrate the Western Illinois economy and drive job growth, State Senator Mike Halpin secured a $1 million upgrade to Moline’s River Drive. “I am proud to see state dollars being put to work on infrastructure that will build jobs... -
JOLIET – Between studying for exams, social expectations, new responsibilities and pressure from society to succeed, college can often be a pressure cooker for young students trying to build a life for themselves. That’s why State Senator Rachel Vent... -
SPRINGFIELD – A new law led by State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel will streamline local municipal services, allowing the city of Joliet to absorb the Southeast Joliet Sanitary District. “Joliet is well equipped to ensure a smooth transition between th...
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