Welcome to the Illinois Senate Democratic Caucus

Morrison champions new law strengthening plastic pollution prevention efforts

DEERFIELD — State Senator Julie Morrison championed a new law strengthening prevention requirements against plastic pellet runoff to secure clean and healthy waterways for Illinois.

“Industrial plastic runoff continues to pollute our waterways ─ harming aquatic life, water quality and beach health across the Great Lakes,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “Providing regulations that secure a thriving environment, free from pollution, is imperative.”

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Peters’ new law supports victims’ access to justice

SPRINGFIELD — To address safety gaps and prioritize continuous protection for victims in Illinois’ justice system, State Senator Robert Peters led a law to secure petitioning eligibility for protective orders during criminal proceedings.

“All victims of violence deserve to feel protected in our state’s justice system, and they especially deserve to feel free from further harassment or abuse, which is exactly what this law ensures,” said Peters (D-Chicago). “It is incredibly rare for victims to seek justice through legal avenues, so we must make sure that when victims come forward, we’re prioritizing their dignity and safety.”

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Hastings school safety measure “Alyssa’s Law” signed into law

SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Michael E. Hastings is building on previous school safety legislation by passing a law that will provide schools with modern tools to quickly alert first responders in the event of a crisis.

“Illinois must continue to be proactive when it comes to the safety of our children,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort). “I am happy to see my colleagues on both sides of the aisle come together to protect our children when we drop them off at school for the day.”

House Bill 5107 will require school districts and private schools to consider the use of a mobile panic alert system in the development of their school emergency and crisis response plans by the beginning of the 2028-2029 school year.

Read more: Hastings school safety measure “Alyssa’s Law” signed into law

Collins law strengthens protections against sexual misconduct in schools

SPRINGFIELD – To strengthen protections for students and help schools identify concerning behavior before it escalates, State Senator Lakesia Collins’ new law improves reporting requirements, reinforces professional boundaries between educators and students and increases transparency regarding school misconduct policies.

“We have to recognize and understand the warning signs before a child is harmed,” said Collins (D-Chicago). “With this law, schools will establish clear boundaries and professional standards between all students and staff, provide training and give educators the ability to identify and report troubling behavior.”

Read more: Collins law strengthens protections against sexual misconduct in schools