Murphy measure would stand against predatory extended warranty scams

SPRINGFIELD – To address extended warranty fraud, State Senator Laura Murphy advanced a measure that would enable vehicle dealers to file suit against scammers that use their intellectual property to deceive consumers.

“Consumers deserve transparency and honesty, but aftermarket sellers often engage in deceitful practices to push unnecessary and overpriced plans,” said Murphy (D-Des Plaines). “Through this legislation, we are laying out a way for automobile dealers whose likeness is used to deceive consumers to try to mend their damaged reputations.”

Extended warranty scams have become common in recent years. Frequently, fraudulent letters are marketed to look like they come from an official or authorized source, rather than an aftermarket extended services plan.

Read more: Murphy measure would stand against predatory extended warranty scams

Toro, Guzzardi legislation stands against discrimination in the workplace

SPRINGFIELD — To safeguard working moms, caregivers and others from being overlooked in hiring decisions because of their responsibilities outside of work, State Senator Natalie Toro is championing legislation aimed at prohibiting employer discrimination based on family obligations.

“It is extremely unfair for employers to decide that someone cannot fulfill their duties because they have family obligations, with no proof that this has or would interfere with their capability to be a good employee,” said Toro (D-Chicago). “This gap in the Human Rights Act has allowed many Illinoisans to miss out on major career opportunities because of employers’ biases, and it is long past time to take a stand against these labor practices.” 

Read more: Toro, Guzzardi legislation stands against discrimination in the workplace

Senate Democrats pay tribute to fallen firefighters at annual memorial ceremony

SPRINGFIELD – On Tuesday, members of the Illinois Senate Democratic Caucus attended the 31^st annual Illinois Fallen Firefighter Memorial ceremony at the Bank of Springfield Center in Springfield.

“Today, we are reminded of our fearless firefighters in our community who protect us every day,” said State Senator Glowiak Hilton (D-Western Springs). “As we honor their memory, let us continue our support for those who serve on the front lines, protecting us from harm.”

The Illinois Firefighter Memorial honors the courageous firefighters of Illinois who have valiantly given their lives in the line of duty, as well as those who continue to serve with courage, pride and honor. The ceremony also gives families of fallen firefighters the Line of Duty Death Award in recognition of their loved ones’ bravery and resilience.

Read more: Senate Democrats pay tribute to fallen firefighters at annual memorial ceremony

Cervantes: We need easier ways to cancel subscriptions

SPRINGFIELD – To make canceling physical fitness services easier for customers, State Senator Javier Cervantes is moving legislation to require these services have easy and simple ways to cancel a contract.

“This is a simple matter of updating business practices to fit with modern times,” said Cervantes (D-Chicago). “Giving consumers simple and efficient methods to cancel their subscription or contract is one way we can ensure residents are not falling victim to automatically renewing payments for services they no longer use.”

Under the new legislation, businesses offering physical fitness services like gym memberships would need to allow customers to cancel their contract either online or by email, instead of only by mail.

Read more: Cervantes: We need easier ways to cancel subscriptions