Turner celebrates nearly $5 million investment to boost Illinois’ tourism industry

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Doris Turner proudly welcomed nearly $5 million in grant funding awarded to 66 grantees to boost tourism and economic development in Central Illinois and across the state.

“Visitors are flocking to Illinois in record numbers to see hidden gems and world-renowned destinations,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “Thanks to the state’s tourism grant programs, communities will be able to further promote events, improve attractions, and develop new and enhanced festivals across Illinois.”

Read more: Turner celebrates nearly $5 million investment to boost Illinois’ tourism industry

Ellman measure advances energy-efficient lighting standards to reduce light pollution statewide

SPRINGFIELD – Artificial light at night is estimated to contribute to the deaths of hundreds of millions of migratory birds each year in the U.S., while also disrupting nocturnal wildlife and ecosystems, according to the National Audubon Society. State Senator Laura Ellman is working to address these impacts with legislation aimed at improving energy efficiency and reducing harmful outdoor lighting across Illinois.

“Light pollution is more than just an inconvenience: it impacts our health, disrupts wildlife and wastes energy,” said Ellman (D-Naperville). “This legislation ensures Illinois is using smarter, more efficient lighting that protects both our environment and taxpayers.”

Read more: Ellman measure advances energy-efficient lighting standards to reduce light pollution statewide

Villivalam advances measure that would regulate the use of micromobility devices in an effort to make safety meet innovation

SPRINGFIELD ─ State Senator Ram Villivalam spearheaded a measure through the Senate that would establish regulations for the use of toy vehicles, motor-driven bicycles and other small, low-speed electric mobility devices in Illinois.

“E-bikes and other increasingly popular micromobility devices are being utilized by our neighbors. While these devices provide more accessibility for our residents, they have also led to tragic accidents,” said Villivalam (D-Chicago). “It is imperative that we implement safeguards to ensure that everyone who uses a micromobility device is able to do so in a safe way.”

A study conducted by the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission estimated a total of 360,800 emergency room visits from injuries sustained during micromoibility devices accidents.

Senate Bill 3336 would regulate the use of toy vehicles, motor-driven cycles, and electric micromobility devices. To achieve this, the measure would:

Read more: Villivalam advances measure that would regulate the use of micromobility devices in an effort to...

Villanueva works to solidify protections for domestic violence survivors

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Celina Villanueva is spearheading a measure to ensure survivors of domestic violence are fully protected and current state law supporting victims is properly enforced.

“Previous gaps in Illinois’ law left survivors vulnerable to continued harm from their abusers, but we enhanced protections to close those gaps last year, and now it’s time to see those enhancements fully realized – for the well-being of survivors, their families and their communities,” said Villanueva (D-Chicago). “By advancing this measure, we’re continuing to put the safety not only of survivors, but also the larger community, at the forefront; ensuring individuals who intend to cause harm are met with full and proper enforcement of Illinois’ law.”

Read more: Villanueva works to solidify protections for domestic violence survivors