Senator Fine initiative to expand eligibility on mental health student loan repayment program becomes law

SPRINGFIELD – With growing demands for mental health providers to support patients struggling with substance use, State Senator Laura Fine is encouraging people to become recovery support specialists through a new initiative expanding the behavioral health workforce student loan forgiveness program.

“If we want people struggling with alcohol and substance abuse to receive the help they need to recover, we need to invest in the people working to become recovery support specialists,” said Fine (D-Glenview). “Thanks to this law, professionals will be able to get assistance for debts they took on while studying to become counselors, providing them financial relief and encouragement to enter this vital field.”  

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Morrison works to eliminate microplastics in water

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Julie Morrison led a new law to eliminate harmful plastics in drinking water.

“While the prevalence of microplastics is well known, the potential environmental and human health effects are not yet fully understood,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “With increasing levels of plastic being found in our waterways, it is of even greater importance to reduce consumption of plastics whenever possible.”

Morrison’s law requires the Illinois EPA to create a public website with information regarding microplastics and submit a report to the General Assembly and governor regarding microplastics, including what other states are doing to address their prevalence.

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Edly-Allen measure requiring basic Alzheimer’s training for guardians signed into law

SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Mary Edly-Allen’s measure requiring training related to Alzheimer’s and dementia for publically appointed guardians was signed into law, taking an essential step toward ensuring guardians have the necessary tools to provide compassionate care.

“The emotional toll of Alzheimer’s and dementia cannot be overstated as these diseases not only rob individuals of their memories and cognitive function, but also take away their independence,” said Edly-Allen (D-Libertyville). “Equipping caregivers with the knowledge they need will promote a safe and supportive environment for those receiving care.”

Senate Bill 216 will require public guardians to undergo at least one hour of training on how to recognize, care for and interact with patients who have Alzheimer’s or dementia. The training must be completed within six months of the guardian’s appointment and renewed annually.

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Villa’s new law will protect concertgoers from overdose

SPRINGFIELD – Thanks to a new law championed by State Senator Karina Villa, music venues will be equipped with overdose-reversing medications.

“The summer months bring a lot of concerts with them, and I want to make sure those in attendance are safe from one bad decision or mistake costing them their lives,” said Villa (D-West Chicago). “This law will save lives by expanding first aid in concert halls, training staff to treat overdose and ensuring the proper tools are on site.”

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