Welcome to Illinois Senate Democratic Caucus

Edly-Allen bill aims to strengthen survivor rights in sexual assault investigations

SPRINGFIELD – According to the RAINN, only 310 out of every 1,000 sexual assaults are reported to police, underscoring the need to build trust and improve survivor experiences within the justice system. To address this critical issue, State Senator Mary Edly-Allen is advancing new legislation aimed to improve how survivors of sexual assault are supported during the criminal justice process.

“Survivors deserve to feel safe, respected and fully supported when they are coming forward,” said Edly-Allen (D-Grayslake). “House Bill 4394 is about making sure survivors know their rights and have some control in a moment where so much has already been taken from them.”

House Bill 4394 would require law enforcement officers to inform survivors of sexual assault or abuse that they may request to be interviewed by an officer of a particular sex or gender.

Read more: Edly-Allen bill aims to strengthen survivor rights in sexual assault investigations

Ellman proposes plan to ban toxic herbicide linked to Parkinson’s disease

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Laura Ellman is advocating for new legislation aimed at banning the use of the toxic herbicide paraquat in Illinois, citing growing evidence linking the chemical to Parkinson’s disease and its mounting impact on families across the state.

“Paraquat is one of the most toxic herbicides still in use, and the science linking it to serious health risks like Parkinson’s disease is too strong to ignore,” said Ellman (D-Naperville). “Illinois has a responsibility to protect workers, families and communities by taking a closer look at its dangers and moving toward safer alternatives.”

Read more: Ellman proposes plan to ban toxic herbicide linked to Parkinson’s disease

Belt champions consumer choice with cash payment measure

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Christopher Belt advanced a measure that would prohibit retailers from refusing cash payments up to $500.

“Cash is still a reality for millions of families, seniors and small-business owners,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “No one should feel excluded from participating in routine transactions simply because they choose to pay with cash.”

Read more: Belt champions consumer choice with cash payment measure

Collins moves measure to remove treatment barriers for seniors

SPRINGFIELD – In an effort to remove barriers, State Senator Lakesia Collins is moving legislation that would ensure older adults could continue seeing their preferred mental health care providers.

“When seniors get to stay with their doctors, they get to keep existing relationships that make health care easier for all,” said Collins (D-Chicago). “By allowing psychologists to continue with their patients after their 65^th birthday, we are ensuring the patient-doctor relationship can continue treatment and ensure the safety of Illinois residents.”

Currently, prescribing psychologists are limited to treating patients over the age of 17 and under the age of 65. In practice, this can lead to older adults being forced to seek new doctors when they turn 65.

Read more: Collins moves measure to remove treatment barriers for seniors