Edly-Allen bill to strengthen survivor rights in sexual assault investigations

SPRINGFIELD – According to the RAINN, only 310 out of every 1,000 sexual assaults are reported to police, underscoring the need to build trust and improve survivor experiences within the justice system. To address this critical issue, State Senator Mary Edly-Allen advanced legislation through the Senate aimed at improving how survivors of sexual assault are supported during the criminal justice process.

“Survivors of sexual assault deserve to feel safe, respected and fully supported when they are coming forward,” said Edly-Allen (D-Grayslake). “House Bill 4394 is about making sure survivors know their rights and have some control in a moment where so much has already been taken from them.”

House Bill 4394 would require law enforcement officers to inform survivors of sexual assault or abuse that they may request to be interviewed by an officer of a particular sex or gender.

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Glowiak Hilton expands railroad safety for students

SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Suzy Glowiak Hilton passed a measure through the Senate to include railroad safety information in student handbooks.

“Trains move swiftly through cities across Illinois, and while their speed is necessary for transporting goods and people, it can pose a serious risk when students misuse railroads and their crossings” said Glowiak Hilton (D-Western Springs). “Understanding why crossings are designed the way they are and the importance of warning signals can protect students. Sharing information about rail safety encourages informed decisions and helps bring awareness to the entire community.”

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Koehler highlights Rivian growth, jobs and EV innovation in Central Illinois

BLOOMINGTON – State Senator Dave Koehler is pleased by the rapid expansion of Rivian’s Manufacturing plant in Bloomington Normal. The additions to the manufactures plant bring with it more economic and job opportunities for our community while bolstering our states electric vehicle ecosystem.

“Rivian’s continued growth in Normal is a testament to what can happen when state, local, and private partners collaborate with a unified vision for the future,” said Koehler (D-Peoria). “The expansion of the plant, the development of the supplier park, and infrastructure investments all culminate in job creation, safety improvements, and a stronger position for Illinois as a leader in advanced manufacturing and clean energy alternatives. It’s exciting to see these investments paying off for workers and everyone involved.”

Read more: Koehler highlights Rivian growth, jobs and EV innovation in Central Illinois

Halpin measure to keep track of Illinois student loan market passes Senate

SPRINGFIELD – In the face of higher student debt for many in Illinois and across the country, State Senator Mike Halpin’s measure to keep track of the private student loan borrowing market has passed the Senate.

“With the Trump administration placing caps on federal lending for student borrowers, we need to keep track of where the Illinois student loan market is at,” said Halpin (D-Rock Island). “Monitoring student loan default rates and loans with cosigners will give us a clearer picture of how students are doing with their debt and what actions Illinois can make to assist them.”

Read more: Halpin measure to keep track of Illinois student loan market passes Senate