Castro leads the charge on cellphone ban in classrooms
- Details
OAK PARK - State Senator Cristina Castro held a press conference alongside Governor JB Pritzker to advocate for legislation she’s spearheading that would prohibit cellphones in classrooms.
“Every student in Illinois deserves a quality education in a productive and welcoming setting,” said State Senator Cristina Castro (D-Elgin). “Reducing the harms of constant cellphone usage by students in the classroom supports academic achievement and ensures the best environment possible for learning and growth.”
Nearly 75% of high school teachers say cellphone distraction in their classroom is a major problem. Castro is spearheading Senate Bill 2427 to support learning environments where teachers can focus on teaching and students can focus on learning. The measure would require school districts in Illinois to adopt a policy limiting the use of wireless communication devices on school grounds during the day – from “bell to bell.”
Read more: Castro leads the charge on cellphone ban in classrooms
Illinois Legislative Black Caucus responds to budget proposal, calls for equity-focused final budget
- Details
SPRINGFIELD – Following the governor’s annual budget address, the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the final state budget delivers meaningful investments in Black communities across Illinois.
The proposal outlines continued support for early childhood education, K-12 evidence-based funding, need-based financial aid, affordable housing initiatives, comprehensive investments to prevent homelessness, health care access, workforce development and public safety efforts. While caucus members acknowledged these as important foundations, they emphasized that the proposal marks the beginning of negotiations — not the final outcome.
“As Senate Joint Chair of the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus, I know our communities cannot afford uncertainty at any level of government,” said State Senator Lakesia Collins (D-Chicago). “With federal threats creating instability around health care, food assistance and social services, Illinois must remain steady and proactive. We have a responsibility to craft a final budget that protects our most vulnerable residents, invests in early childhood and education and strengthens economic opportunities in neighborhoods that have been historically disinvested.”
Preston measure increases availability for store coupons
- Details
SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Willie Preston is heading a measure that would require grocery stores offering digital coupons to have matching paper ones.
“This measure prevents discrimination by stores against people who are less technologically inclined or do not want to use digital coupons,” said Preston (D-Chicago). “Not everyone has a smartphone or wants to use their smartphone for every part of their life.”
The measure would require a store that offers digital coupons to also have paper coupons at the service desk for customers to use if they prefer. The store would need to have the coupons placed in other locations as well.
Read more: Preston measure increases availability for store coupons
Illinois Legislative Latino Caucus shares their key priorities after governor’s budget speech
- Details
SPRINGFIELD – Members of the Illinois Legislative Latino Caucus have once again affirmed their dedication to standing up for Latino residents, emphasizing their strong commitment to protecting and supporting these communities amid growing threats of potential cuts from the Trump administration.
“The governor’s proposed revenue solutions to bridge the gaps in funding are a solid baseline to address the challenges our state is facing under the federal administration,” said Senate Latino Caucus Chair Karina Villa (D-West Chicago). “One thing is clear: our budget cannot be balanced on the back of working people. As budget negations continue, we will remain steadfast in our commitment to defending the services our communities depend on.”
“As leaders, we must stay in this fight to bring justice and equity to our budget decisions. Because when we invest in immigrant and Latino communities, we invest in the future of Illinois,” said House Latino Caucus Chair Norma Hernandez (D-Melrose Park). “Our families are not asking for special treatment. They are asking for fairness, dignity, and the opportunity to live without fear and to thrive.”
More Articles …
Page 1 of 738
Follow ILSenDems
Member News
-
Ellman commemorates opening of new Philip J. Rock Center and School facility for deaf-blind students
GLEN ELLYN — State Senator Laura Ellman joined local, state and community leaders to celebrate the grand opening of the new Philip J. Rock Center and School, the nation’s only publicly-funded residential school dedicated to serving students who are d... -
SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Doris Turner presented a resolution to recognize and honor the contributions of Eva Carroll Monroe. “Eva Carroll Monroe was a trailblazer in child welfare, opening her door for Black children,” said Turner (D-Springfield)... -
MOLINE – In order to integrate the Western Illinois economy and drive job growth, State Senator Mike Halpin secured a $1 million upgrade to Moline’s River Drive. “I am proud to see state dollars being put to work on infrastructure that will build jobs... -
JOLIET – Between studying for exams, social expectations, new responsibilities and pressure from society to succeed, college can often be a pressure cooker for young students trying to build a life for themselves. That’s why State Senator Rachel Vent... -
SPRINGFIELD – A new law led by State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel will streamline local municipal services, allowing the city of Joliet to absorb the Southeast Joliet Sanitary District. “Joliet is well equipped to ensure a smooth transition between th...
SPRINGFIELD OFFICE
(217) 782-2728
321 State House
Springfield, IL 62706
 © 2026 Illinois Senate Democratic Caucus    |
CHICAGO OFFICE
(312) 814-2075
160 N. LaSalle St., Ste. 720
Chicago, IL 60601