Villanueva joins advocates to fight for higher wages for home care workers

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Celina Villanueva joined SEIU Healthcare, seniors and advocates at a rally at the Illinois State Capitol on Thursday to demand equitable wages for home care workers under the Community Care Program.

“I know first-hand how demanding home care work is, as it was home care workers who stepped in when my grandmother was ill – ensuring she was clean, fed, took her medicine on time and, most importantly, could continue living in her community with dignity,” said Villanueva (D-Chicago). “We must work to pass this measure to ensure their wages are reflective of their effort, and I am determined to lead that fight in Springfield this spring.”

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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.”

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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.”

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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:

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