Senator Fine’s plan to assist students with debt signed into law

SPRINGFIELD – Universities will no longer be able to withhold transcripts from students who have not yet paid off their tuition balance, thanks to a new law led by State Senator Laura Fine (D-Glenview).

“As a former professor, I have witnessed firsthand the immense sacrifices, including taking on debt, students undertake to earn their degree and pursue a fulfilling career,” Fine said. “The practice of withholding transcripts can make it harder for students to find the necessary employment to pay off their debts. This law will ensure students have access to the documents they have earned through hard work, regardless of outstanding debt.”

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Senator Turner leads effort to make sure America’s 250th celebration is great

SPRINGFIELD – With America’s 250^th birthday approaching in a few years, State Senator Doris Turner (D-Springfield) says it’s time to get the party planning started.

“This is a tremendous occasion. Our great country has a deep and beautiful history to highlight,” Turner said. “I am honored to play a role in this historic event.”

Turner, a Democrat from Springfield, was the chief Senate sponsor of a newly signed law that officially creates the Illinois party planning committee to work on how to best celebrate the 250^th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence on and around July 4, 2026. That law, first filed in House Bill 5015, was signed last Friday by the governor.

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Villivalam: Expanding health coverage will keep all communities healthy

­CHICAGO – To make essential health services accessible to immigrant and refugee communities, State Senator Ram Villivalam supported a measure to expand Medicaid-like benefits to non-citizens down to age 42 that was signed into law on Friday.

“As we were reminded over the course of the pandemic, our collective public health requires that all our neighbors be covered, regardless of immigrant status,” said Villivalam (D-Chicago). “Expanding health care coverage to as many people as possible will keep all our communities safe and healthy as we continue to recover.”

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Joyce: Governors State University will receive $450,000 grant for workforce recovery

UNIVERSITY PARK – Governors State University will receive $450,000 for workforce recovery efforts as part of a $20 million state investment with support from State Senator Patrick Joyce.

“During my time in the General Assembly, I have been a strong advocate for more resources for job training so that our upcoming workforce has the means to be successful,” said Joyce (D-Essex). “This grant will provide GSU students with additional opportunities.”

A total of 44 community-based organizations will receive Job Training and Economic Development Program grants, which aim to expand access to workforce training services and support for unemployed or underemployed Illinois citizens.

Read more: Joyce: Governors State University will receive $450,000 grant for workforce recovery