New Holmes laws on animal rights highlighted in ‘Interesting New Laws in 2022’ feature

HB 572 works to stop predatory contract loan practice in pet stores; HB 168 addresses animal cruelty in public housing

SPRINGFIELD – A longtime animal rights advocate in the Illinois State Senate, Senate Assistant Majority Leader Linda Holmes (D-Aurora) had two of her new laws highlighted in the Illinois Senate Democrats’ annual feature on top new laws.

HB 572 prohibits the predatory lending practice by pet stores who charge high lending rates for customers purchasing high priced pets on credit.  Pet stores in Illinois who offer installment contract loans for the purchase of a cat or dog may no longer offer that service.

Read more: New Holmes laws on animal rights highlighted in ‘Interesting New Laws in 2022’ feature

Morrison heartbroken by line of duty death of DCFS employee

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Julie Morrison (D-Lake Forest) released the following statement regarding the tragic loss of life of Deidra Silas, a Department of Children and Family Services’ employee. Silas was stabbed to death in Thayer Tuesday afternoon while performing a home visit.

“I am heartbroken to learn of the tragic death of Deidre Silas, a dedicated DCFS employee. Her top priority was helping some of the most vulnerable, at-risk children in our state. My thoughts and prayers go out to the family, friends and colleagues of Deidre.

“This is not the first employee death we have seen at DCFS in recent years. I, alongside other legislators, will immediately call upon Director Smith to review the agency’s policies to ensure no other life of someone called to protect our children is brutally lost.”

Lightford announces Jan. 1 increase in minimum wage

MAYWOOD – Illinois Senate Majority Leader Kimberly A. Lightford (D-Maywood), is excited to announce the new $12 per hour minimum wage in Illinois is starting Jan. 1, 2022.

“Even before the pandemic, many working families were struggling,” Lightford, chief sponsor of the 2019 law raising the minimum wage, said. “This increase won’t solve all of their problems, but it will surely help.”

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Murphy: You have an additional three months to renew expired driver’s licenses

DES PLAINES – State Senator Laura Murphy (D-Des Plaines) is reminding Illinois drivers they will now have an additional three months to renew their licenses.

“Throughout the pandemic, our local secretary of state offices have prioritized the health and safety of its workers and our community,” Murphy said. “By extending the deadline, we are giving everyone a fair chance to get their licenses renewed on time without waiting in line for hours.”

Read more: Murphy: You have an additional three months to renew expired driver’s licenses