Halpin combats plastic pollution

SPRINGFIELD – Single-use plastics account for up to 40% of plastic produced every year – with many of those products persisting in the environment for hundreds of years. State Senator Mike Halpin is working to combat that pollution through a resolution he spearheaded.  

“The fight against plastic pollution will take every one of us to win, from our state government to everyday Illinoisans,” said Halpin (D-Rock Island). “This is one step forward on the path to a cleaner, healthier Illinois.”

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Parental Alienation Awareness Day recognized in Illinois thanks to Ventura

SPRINGFIELD – Recognizing the devastating impact of parental alienation on families across Illinois, State Senator Rachel Ventura successfully advanced Senate Resolution 66, declaring April 25, 2025 as Parental Alienation Awareness Day in the state. The resolution aims to increase understanding, promote prevention and encourage intervention efforts to support healthy family relationships.

“The emotional and psychological toll of parental alienation can have lasting effects on children,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “Fostering unfounded fears about a parent or guardian can create serious barriers to a child's emotional and psychological well-being. By raising awareness, we can foster healthier relationships and ensure that all children have the opportunity to maintain meaningful connections with both parents.”

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Koehler's legislation supporting student leaders passes Senate, heads to House

SPRINGFIELD— Legislation sponsored by State Senator Dave Koehler to support student leaders serving on state higher education boards passed the Senate.

"Our student board members represent thousands of their peers and help shape decisions that directly affect colleges and universities across Illinois," said Koehler. "Offering this scholarship recognizes their dedication and encourages more students to participate in leadership roles."

Senate Bill 1475 would provide a $500 scholarship each semester to student members serving on the Illinois Board of Higher Education and the Illinois Community College Board. Currently, these student members volunteer their time without compensation, only receiving reimbursement for travel-related expenses.

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Sangamon County could put recall process in place under Turner measure that heads to House

SPRINGFIELD – Following the murder of Sonya Massey at the hands of a Sangamon County deputy sheriff, State Senator Doris Turner passed a measure through the Senate that would allow Sangamon County to put a recall process in place for countywide elected officials.

“Alongside Sangamon County Board Chair Andy Van Meter, we created the Massey Commission to address systemic issues in law enforcement practices, mental health responses and community relations,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “The commission, comprised of community members, supported this initiative. Not only as an elected official, but also having a generational relationship with the Massey family, I have been working tirelessly since the horrific incident to make sure our community’s voices are heard.”

Read more: Sangamon County could put recall process in place under Turner measure that heads to House