Johnson leads measure to strengthen protections for domestic violence survivors, address digital harassment

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Adriane Johnson is advancing legislation that would strengthen protections for survivors of domestic violence by modernizing Illinois law to address online harassment, electronic tracking and barriers survivors face when seeking protective orders.

“Abuse doesn’t always look the same as it did decades ago,” Johnson (D-Buffalo Grove) said. “Technology has created new ways for abusers to stalk, harass and intimidate victims. Our laws must evolve to recognize these forms of harm and ensure survivors have the tools they need to stay safe.”

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Villanueva fights to advance environmental justice protections in Illinois

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Celina Villanueva is leading legislation that would strengthen environmental justice protections by ensuring state regulators consider the potential impacts on communities that have historically faced disproportionate environmental burdens when reviewing pollution control permits.

“For too long, communities already facing environmental burdens have been forced to carry a disproportionate share of pollution and its impacts,” Villanueva (D-Chicago) said. “This legislation ensures that environmental justice is part of the decision-making process so we can better protect the health and well-being of residents across Illinois.”

Senate Bill 3772 would require the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency to evaluate environmental justice factors when reviewing certain air pollution construction permit applications.

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Morrison measure that would strengthen crime victims’ rights advances

DEERFIELD — As part of an initiative from the Illinois Attorney General, State Senator Julie Morrison is sponsoring a measure that would strengthen rights of crime victims and provide additional resources to medical facilities performing forensic examinations.

“It’s an honor to work with the Attorney General’s office on such impactful legislation that would strengthen the rights of crime victims and provide additional resources to medical facilities,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest).

The measure works to strengthen rights of crime victims and provide additional resources to medical facilities performing forensic examination.

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Villanueva leads measure to strengthen charter school accountability

SPRINGFIELD – A measure led by State Senator Celina Villanueva to strengthen financial accountability and protect students and families when charter schools face financial instability passed the Illinois Senate Executive Committee Wednesday.

“When a school suddenly shuts its doors, it is the students, families and educators who are left scrambling,” Villanueva (D-Chicago) said. “This legislation ensures there are clear safeguards in place so communities are not blindsided by closures and public resources are properly protected.”

Senate Bill 3391 would require charter school operators to formally execute renewal agreements within 90 days of approval and establish stronger financial safeguards to ensure students, staff and public resources are protected if a charter school closes.

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