Ellman pushes to include Muslim history in Illinois schools

SPRINGFIELD – Legislation sponsored by State Senator Laura Ellman (D-Naperville) designed to recognize the historical and present-day contributions of Muslim culture in the state of Illinois passed the State Senate on Wednesday.

“This legislation is meant to raise awareness of the contributions made by the Muslim community across the nation and the state of Illinois,” Ellman said. “It’s our responsibility to ensure all Illinoisans feel represented in this state, and that begins by making sure students learn about people like them in school.”

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Stadelman’s legislation to spur construction spending passes Senate

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Steve Stadelman’s (D-Rockford) legislation to help the state invest in construction projects throughout Illinois passed the State Senate on Wednesday.

The legislation allows the state treasurer to invest up to 5% of the state’s investment portfolio into Illinois infrastructure development companies. This change in the law would allow up to $700 million in financing.

“Financing construction projects across out state also means we’re investing in our workers,” Stadelman said. “This legislation will generate good-paying jobs throughout Illinois.”

The legislation encourages more businesses to locate, expand, and remain in Illinois by investing in quality construction development firms with a significant presence within state borders.

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Villanueva passes Student Parent Data Collection Act

SPRINGFIELD – To help public colleges and universities better understand the needs of student parents, State Senator Celina Villanueva (D-Chicago) passed legislation in the Illinois Senate directing colleges to collect certain information from students that will help shape more accommodating policies going forward.

“Young parents and parents returning to school face unique challenges, specifically with access to child care and financial assistance,” Villanueva said. “Public institutions of higher education have a moral obligation to the children of their students to see that they are cared for.”

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Peters fights for children’s right to play

SPRINGFIELD – In an effort to combat a decades-long decrease in time set aside for physical activity in school, State Senator Robert Peters (D-Chicago) is sponsoring a measure to require schools to provide students with daily time for play.

“Children have a right to play, period,” Peters said. “Physical activity is a crucial part of a child’s development, and since children spend most of their time at school, all schools should offer recess.”

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