Edly-Allen measure to protect domestic violence survivors using workplace resources

SPRINGFIELD – Domestic violence is a serious public health issue across the United States. In Illinois, 42% of women and 26% of men will face violence from an intimate partner. To ensure survivors are not further burdened at work, State Senator Mary Edly-Allen collaborated with State Representative Daniel Didech on House Bill 1278 which passed the Senate on Thursday.

“Victims of domestic violence should not have to worry about workplace retaliation,” said Edly-Allen (D-Libertyville). “Survivors should not be penalized for protecting themselves. This bill can - and will - save lives, and I am proud to carry this legislation through the Senate.”

House Bill 1278 provides that employees can use work devices to document or communicate about violence affecting them or their family, and must be given access to related files if needed for legal action. Employers must post a notice about this right.

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Fine spearheads measure to fortify opioid overdose reporting

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Laura Fine passed a measure in the Senate that helps people struggling with substance abuse and mental health challenges by strengthening reporting standards for overdoses.

“Thousands of Illinoisans face opioid overdoses every year – more than motor vehicle accidents and homicides,” said Fine (D-Glenview). “The opioid crisis has taken lives and a sense of security in our communities, which is why it is critical to initiate life-saving preventative measures.”

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Dillon’s Law advances thanks to Edly-Allen, preparing our communities to act on allergic reactions

SPRINGFIELD – According to the Food Allergy Research & Education organization (FARE), 33 million Americans have a food allergy, with the most common allergies including milk, tree nuts, shellfish and peanuts. To increase the accessibility of epinephrine to help those having an allergic reaction, State Senator Mary Edly-Allen worked with House Assistant Majority Leader Maurice West to bring House Bill 2462 through the Senate.

House Bill 2462, modeled after a law passed in Wisconsin in 2017, is named after 18-year-old Dillon Mueller, who died in 2014 after being stung by a bee without any previous knowledge of an allergy. No epinephrine was available in the first aid kits of either the Eagle Scout with him or the arriving first responders. This legislation would allow individuals who are properly trained to carry and administer the epinephrine to individuals having an allergic reaction.

“Dillon’s Law is common-sense legislation that helps our communities become better equipped to help someone experiencing an allergic reaction,” said Edly-Allen (D-Libertyville). “If a person does not know they have an allergy, they may not have access to epinephrine, which is why this bill could help save so many lives.”

Read more: Dillon’s Law advances thanks to Edly-Allen, preparing our communities to act on allergic reactions

Villa measure securing mental health services for college students advances

SPRINGFIELD – Citing the increased need for mental health services for students following the COVID-19 pandemic, State Senator Karina Villa advanced a measure to ensure college students have access to mental health services.

“As a school social worker, I saw first-hand that learning and wellness are intertwined. When students gain access to mental health services, they succeed,” said Villa (D-West Chicago). “Starting college, moving out on your own, balancing academics and a social life can be overwhelming. It is critical for students to know they have access to support if they need it.”

House Bill 3385 would require public universities and colleges to provide up to three licensed mental health professionals if the institution meets the benchmark ratio of clinical, non-student staff members to students.

Read more: Villa measure securing mental health services for college students advances