Feigenholtz law will keep license plate camera data private to protect those accessing reproductive health care

SPRINGFIELD – People seeking reproductive health care are one step closer to privacy protections thanks to legislation spearheaded by State Senator Sara Feigenholtz.

“Illinois will not permit data collection tools like automated license plate readers to be weaponized against people traveling to our state to access reproductive health care services,” said Feigenholtz (D-Chicago). “Since the Dobbs decision, Illinois has methodically buttoned down all possible protections for people coming to our state for help."

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Lightford expands support for student mental health

SPRINGFIELD – Senate Majority Leader Kimberly A. Lightford passed a measure expanding the Whole Child Task Force, improving trauma-responsive practices in Illinois schools.

“Since the pandemic, the number of students who have experienced childhood trauma has increased drastically,” said Lightford (D-Maywood). “Our school administrators and teachers need preparation and support to better address student trauma.”

The Whole Child Task Force establishes an equitable, safe, inclusive and supportive environment in all schools for students dealing with trauma and mental health issues. The task force collects data on adverse childhood experiences and trauma, as well as the total number of school counselors, social workers, nurses and psychologists in Illinois schools.

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Senator Holmes brings paint recycling to Illinois

Paint Stewardship Act passes Senate

SPRINGFIELD – Many homeowners have something lurking in their basement or garage that could be disposed of, but there hasn’t been a means to get rid of it safely: unused household paint. Legislation sponsored by State Senator Linda Holmes that would establish a program to dispose of household paint passed the Senate on Friday.

The Paint Stewardship Act in Senate Bill 836 creates a means for consumers to dispose of household paint in Illinois. No state resources are in place today to deal with this waste. Under this law, manufacturers of architectural paint will create and submit a plan to the Illinois EPA to establish the program.

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Peters: Individuals with prior justice system involvement should be able to move on with their lives, instead of being defined by past mistakes

SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation may soon be unable to require criminal background information from certain applicants for licensure, thanks to a measure carried by State Senator Robert Peters.

“Requiring criminal background information when it can’t be used against an applicant for licensure opens the floodgates for those with prior justice system involvement to experience discrimination based on the negative biases associated with a criminal record,” said Peters (D-Chicago). “Individuals with prior justice system involvement should be able to move on with their lives, instead of being defined by past mistakes.”

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