Caucus News

SPRINGFIELD — A new law led by State Senator Mike Porfirio will allow local governments to take swift action to solve road safety hazards if certain criteria are met.

“My priority will always be to keep our road roads safe both for drivers and pedestrians, especially in areas of critical need,” said Porfirio (D-Lyons Township). “I will always support study-backed solutions to solving road safety issues, but in instances of urgent safety hazards, we need to enable local governments to take quick action to protect residents.”

Porfirio’s law, House Bill 5081, gives local authorities more structured flexibility to set lower speed limits based on safety principles. The law introduces the concept of “target speed” which helps to determine appropriate speed limits based on roadway context and safety. This allows municipalities to calibrate lower, reasonable speed limits in certain areas before a traffic study is completed.

SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Mike Porfirio’s measure to continue studying mental health treatments to address the nationwide veteran suicide crisis has been signed into law.

“The studies and outcomes produced by this council have been extremely promising. They are saving real lives,” said Porfirio (D-Lyons Township). “We must continue to fight against veteran suicide as a national crisis, and this law keeps Illinois at the forefront of that fight.”

Porfirio’s law continues the Breakthrough Therapies for Veteran Suicide Prevention Advisory Council and places the council under the Illinois Department of Public Health.

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Mike Porfirio led a resolution to honor the U.S. Marine Corps through renaming a portion of Interstate Route 80.

“Since its creation, the Marine Corps has played a key role in protecting and safeguarding the security and freedom of the United States,” said Porfirio (D-Lyons Township). “This resolution enshrines the honor and dedication that our Marine Corps serve with into the state of Illinois. We will never forget the sacrifice our Marine Corps members have made and will continue to make in the name of freedom.”

SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Mike Porfirio advanced two pieces of legislation that would create safer roadways for drivers, pedestrians and students on buses.

“We need to prioritize legislation that empowers our communities to make road safety changes where they need it most urgently,” said Porfirio (D-Lyons Township). “We must also be fair to drivers by ensuring that any revenue collected through traffic infractions are reinvested into initiatives that keep our community safe.”

SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Mike Porfirio introduced a measure to help local authorities implement changes that would improve road safety in their areas.

“This legislation puts the safety of our community first by making it easier for local governments to implement safety precautions,” said Porfirio (D-Lyons Township). “In situations where changes to speed limits are urgently needed, we want to streamline the process for local municipalities.”

SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Mike Porfirio is leading the charge to tackle the veteran suicide crisis by championing legislation aimed at supporting solutions to veteran mental health challenges like PTSD.

“I am proud of the support and urgency we have built in combatting the veteran suicide crisis,” said Porfirio (D-Lyons Township). “The widespread support for this legislation shows that Illinois is united in finding realistic, comprehensive solutions for the mental health challenges our veterans endure.”

SPRINGFIELD — To address the increase in suicide rates among veterans in the United States, State Senator Mike Porfirio has advanced legislation to extend the Breakthrough Therapies for Veteran Suicide Prevention Advisory Council.

“We must be consistent in our effort to support suicide prevention efforts for veterans,” said Porfirio (D-Lyons Township). “This crisis will not solve itself; I will continue to urgently support new treatment solutions for our dedicated service members.”

SPRINGFIELD — A severe rooftop safety hazard for Illinois firefighters will be mended thanks to a new law championed by State Senator Mike Porfirio.

“This is a profound advancement for the safety of Illinois firefighters,” said Porfirio (D-Lyons Township). “The widespread support for this law is a demonstration of Illinois’ commitment to protecting the first responders who serve us bravely every day.”