CHICAGO — Senate Majority Leader Kimberly A. Lightford joined Governor JB Pritzker and a number of stakeholders to push for the House passage of her measure that would regulate Delta-8, a synthetic hemp-derived THC intoxicant.

“The current unregulated market undermines social equity license holders who have long worked to establish a legal, well-regulated business,” said Lightford (D-Maywood). “Effective regulation is about safeguarding public health and fostering a sustainable, trustworthy market."

CHICAGO - State Senators Elgie R. Sims, Jr. and Robert Peters celebrated the announcement of a new National Quantum Algorithm Center, which will further solidify the state as a leader in the global quantum industry.

“Illinois is poised to become the epicenter of quantum innovation, positioning itself as a global leader in both technological advancement and economic development,” said Sims (D-Chicago). “The establishment of the National Quantum Algorithm Center marks a pivotal moment in our state's technological landscape, promising to drive breakthrough solutions to complex global challenges while also enhancing cutting-edge research and job opportunities.”

CHICAGO — The Illinois Legislative Latino Caucus issued the following statement:

“At a time when people across our country are seeking unity in the wake of political division, extremists are offering nothing but fear and intimidation.

“Our greatest safety is in community. As leaders of this state, we pledge to use every tool at our disposal — legislative, legal, and otherwise — to protect our immigrant families from the threat of mass deportation. We will not be intimidated and will not allow our communities to live in fear. As the saying goes, el pueblo unido, jamás será vencido — the people united will never be defeated.”

SPRINGFIELD — With the new year quickly approaching, a number of new state laws will take effect. Nearly 300 laws will officially be on the books beginning Jan. 1 — from one that fights catalytic converter theft to another that makes it easier to cancel online subscriptions.

CHICAGO – Following a multi-year implementation period, the state’s minimum wage will reach $15 per hour on Jan. 1, thanks to steadfast advocacy from Senate Majority Leader Kimberly A. Lightford.

“As a state, we have helped countless workers make ends meet, reduce financial stress, and provide a more solid foundation for their futures,” said Lightford (D-Maywood). “The $15 minimum wage is a testament to our commitment to economic justice and our belief that everyone who works full time deserves a living wage.”

Lightford led a law in 2019 to put the state on the path to a $15 per hour minimum wage by 2025. The minimum wage was raised from $8.25 to $10 in 2019. Each year after, on Jan. 1, the minimum wage increased by $1 – putting it at $15 come Jan. 1, 2025. Additionally, the youth minimum wage rate will raise to $13 per hour.

DEERFIELD – State Senator Julie Morrison commemorated Dec. 21, 2024 as James A. Lovell Day to celebrate the Lake Forest man whose words of, “Houston, we've had a problem,” are still said daily some 54 years later. 

“James A. Lovell’s extraordinary courage and skills have left an indelible mark on human space exploration,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “His achievements have long inspired generations to dream big and persevere in the face of seemingly impossible challenges.”

Lovell is best known for his remarkable role in the Apollo 13 mission – an incredible story of survival and human resilience. In April 1970, when an oxygen tank explosion crippled their spacecraft, Lovell and his crew transformed what could have been a tragic disaster into one of the most remarkable rescue missions in history. With limited resources and facing seemingly insurmountable challenges, they navigated their damaged spacecraft back to earth.

More people to receive unpaid wages, thanks to Peters

SPRINGFIELD – Illinois workers now have the ability to see if they are owed unpaid wages through the I-CASH website, thanks to advocacy from State Senator Robert Peters and Treasurer Michael Frerichs.

“Let’s be clear: Wage theft is theft. It’s in fact the leading form of theft,” said Peters (D-Chicago). “People deserve as much time as possible to recover their unpaid wages.”

Read more.

Simmons legislation promotes workforce recruitment and retention for educators and childcare providers

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Mike Simmons is sponsoring legislation to strengthen workforce recruitment and retention for educators and childcare providers in Illinois.

“We need a plan for Illinois families and childcare providers to be able to find the best employees possible,” said Simmons (D-Chicago). “By getting feedback from all parties, we can create a comprehensive plan that sets children, families and providers up for success.”

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Castro-supported measure to prioritize jobs, promote performing arts

SPRINGFIELD – To uplift the vital economic contributions the arts industry provides to Illinois and the Northwest Suburbs, State Senator Cristina Castro helped lead an initiative through the Senate to support this industry and others.

“Illinois’ creative and performing arts industries employ nearly 200,000 Illinoisans,” said Castro (D-Elgin). “With more flexible rules in place, well-paying job opportunities and a diverse pool of talent, we can expect to see continuing success in the growth of the arts across our state.”

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Villa furthers language equity initiative

SPRINGFIELD – A measure championed by State Senator Karina Villa, securing language assistance during state agency administrative hearings passed the Senate with support from the Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund.

“Maneuvering government procedures can be overwhelming and difficult, especially when a language barrier is present,” said Villa (D-West Chicago). “Building upon the Language Equity and Access Act that was signed into law in August, this will ensure that every Illinois resident has the same degree of access during hearings, regardless of their proficiency in English.”

Read more.

Sound of the State: Collins discusses efforts to improve birth experiences and postpartum care

State Senator Lakesia Collins joins the Sound of the State to talk about her new law designed to improve birth outcomes through improved access to midwives, perinatal doulas, and lactation consultants.

Listen here.

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CHICAGO — State Senator Elgie R. Sims, Jr. was recently elected to serve as the chair of the Council of State Governments.

“It is a tremendous honor to have been elected by my colleagues from all 50 states to serve in this important position,” said Sims (D-Chicago). “Many of the skills and much of the knowledge about policy I developed in partnership with people I met through the Council of State Governments and I am proud to help shape future generations of leaders through this amazing organization of state government leaders.”

The Council of State Governments is the nation’s largest nonpartisan organization serving all three branches of state elected and appointed officials. The mission of the group is to champion excellence in state government.