SPRINGFIELD – Under a new measure proposed by State Senator Laura Murphy, medications could be easier to obtain during shortages.

“When you are a patient dealing with a long-term illness or condition, the last thing you want to hear is that your medication is out of stock, but the name brand — which isn’t covered by your insurance — is in stock and you’ll have to pay hundreds more just to get the medicine you need,” said Murphy (D-Des Plaines). “It is even worse when you have to call every local pharmacy and get the same answer. We need to ensure better outcomes for our patients by ensuring that they have access to the medications that they need.”

Murphy’s measure would require health insurance and managed care plans to cover brand name prescription drugs if the generic drug is unavailable during a nationwide shortage.

SPRINGFIELD – Under a new measure from State Senator Laura Murphy, residents of mobile home parks could see improved transparency and protections.

“As any member of the community, mobile home owners deserve to know their basic rights,” said Murphy (D-Des Plaines). “They have a right to know that if the park owner does not have a license, they do not have the right to continue to collect rent, nor can they be evicted for failing to pay rent during that time.”

Murphy’s measure would require mobile home park owners to give notice to tenants that parks must be licensed to operate, and if they are not licensed, the owner cannot collect rent. Lease agreements would be required to have this disclaimer included in a clear and conspicuous manner.

SPRINGFIELD – Illinois will become the first state in the nation to prohibit the banning of books in libraries, thanks to a measure championed by State Senator Laura Murphy that takes effect Jan. 1, 2024.

“Illinois is the first to take a stand and tell the rest of the country that we won’t bend to censorship,” said Murphy (D-Des Plaines). “I am proud we are standing up for First Amendment rights and standing against partisan and doctrinal book bans.”

Nationally, the number of attempts to ban books has been on the rise, with 681 attempts involving more than 1,600 titles throughout the U.S. in 2021, according to the American Library Association. Seven states have passed laws to impose restrictions on libraries, including Tennessee, Oklahoma, Florida and Utah.

DES PLAINES – State Senator Laura Murphy (D-Des Plaines) released the below statement following multiple bomb threats to suburban Chicago libraries:

“Libraries are sanctuaries of learning, growth and togetherness—they are the very heart of our communities. Threats of violence against libraries is an affront to our shared values. I condemn the cowardly attempts to undermine the open exchange of ideas and interrupt these vital institutions.

“The individuals making these threats want to instill fear in our communities, but we cannot allow this fear to win. Now that these individuals cannot silence ideas by banning books, they use threats of violence to try to achieve their insidious goals. They want us to be as afraid as they are, that is why it is more than ever we need to show our support for our public libraries. We must stand united against hatred and ignorance, and defend the principles that our country was founded on.”

SPRINGFIELD – To raise awareness of Lyme disease, one of the most underreported and dangerous vector-borne diseases, a new law championed by State Senator Laura Murphy will create the Lyme Disease Innovation Program.

“Every year, countless individuals face the challenges of living with Lyme disease,” said Murphy (D-Des Plaines). “By increasing awareness, we can break down barriers, dispel myths and ensure that those affected receive the support, empathy and resources they need to navigate this often invisible illness.”

SPRINGFIELD – To address racial discrimination in schools, State Senator Laura Murphy championed a new law to increase protections for students.

“Equal education means a commitment to combat racism and discrimination head-on,” said Murphy (D-Des Plaines). “Written policies in public schools are the foundation for change, ensuring that no student faces prejudice or retaliation for speaking out against injustice.”

Under the law, each school district will be required to create, implement and maintain at least one written policy that prohibits discrimination and harassment against students based on race, color or national origin. Additionally, the policy includes language prohibiting retaliation against students for submitting a complaint.

In a report from the U.S. Government Accountability Office, an estimated 5.2 million students aged 12 to 18 were bullied in the 2018-2019 school year. One in four of those students experienced bullying related to their race, national origin, religion, disability, gender or sexual orientation. In the same school year, the report says there were 1.6 million students who were subjected to hate speech due to their identity. Among those incidents, half targeted students’ race and 24% targeted their national origin.

“We need to create a nurturing space where students feel empowered to report without any bias,” Murphy said. “It is a critical step in fostering an inclusive, accepting community where diversity is celebrated and all students thrive. Students need to feel comfortable and safe, it is the school’s responsibility to provide this environment so kids can learn.”

Senate Bill 90 was signed into law on Friday.

SPRINGFIELD – A new law will increase transparency between schools, students and parents regarding transfers to alternative schools thanks to support from State Senator Laura Murphy.

“Alternative schools are necessary for some students to thrive. These schools are designed to help educate those who need an extra push outside of traditional environments,” said Murphy (D-Des Plaines). “However, students and their parents are often left in the dark when it comes to the nature of the programs, or even when they can return to regular school.”

SPRINGFIELD – The price of insulin will be capped at $35 for a 30-day supply thanks to State Senator Laura Murphy.

“When Fredrick Banting discovered insulin in 1923, he refused to put his name on the patent: he believed it was unethical for a doctor to profit from a discovery that would save lives,” said Murphy (D-Des Plaines). “He and his co-inventors sold the insulin patent for $1: they wanted everyone who needed their medication to be able to afford it. We need to lead by the example of Mr. Banting’s selflessness, and honor the legacy of selflessness on the 100 year anniversary of its discovery.”

Under the law the price of a 30-day supply of insulin will be capped at $35 for all private individual and group insurance policies. In addition, an insulin discount program will be established by the Department of Central Management Services. The program will begin July 1, 2025.