SPRINGFIELD – In an effort to combat climate change, reduce vehicle emissions and significantly expand the market for electric vehicles, State Senator Sara Feigenholtz is championing a measure to make EV-capable charging available at residential buildings in Illinois.

“Illinois is on the cutting edge of electric vehicle manufacturing, incentives and infrastructure,” said Feigenholtz (D-Chicago). “The biggest challenge for this industry and for people who are in the market to purchase electric vehicles is the availability of charging stations. This legislation will expand EV access to charging stations in new buildings and accelerate our path forward in this emerging industry.”

The bill would require new construction of single-family homes and multi-unit residential buildings to include basic infrastructure for electric vehicle charging. It does not require the installation of any actual EV chargers or the wiring for a charger. It also lays out rights and obligations under the requirements to allow flexibility for tenants and condo unit owners seeking to install an EV charger on their own, while granting property owners the ability to recoup costs when an EV charger is installed at the request of a tenant or unit owner.

SPRINGFIELD – To help municipalities, business owners and convention bureaus promote local tourist activities and attract visitors to all corners of Illinois, State Senator Sara Feigenholtz is leading a measure to create the Tourism Preservation and Sustainability District Act.

“Tourism and hospitality are top revenue-generating industries that drive our state forward,” said Feigenholtz (D-Chicago), chair of the Senate Tourism and Hospitality Committee. “House Bill 268 will bring Illinois in line with 19 other states that utilize tourism preservation and sustainability districts to promote regional interests and bring visitors, revenue and jobs back to their state.”

House Bill 268 would allow hotel owners to petition a county, municipality or township to create a tourism preservation and sustainability district through ordinance. Hotel and lodging businesses within the district can opt to impose a 5% or less transaction fee on their room rates, to be collected by the local unit of government. These revenues would go to a state-certified Convention and Visitors Bureau or existing tourism nonprofit for marketing, sales efforts, events and other local promotional activities that enhance area tourism.

CHICAGO – Nearly $3 million in new funding is available to help counties, municipalities, non-profit organizations and promotional groups revitalize Illinois’ tourism industry by promoting events, destinations and tourist attractions, thanks to support from State Senator Sara Feigenholtz. 

The Illinois Travel and Tourism Grant Program will match up to $100,000 in project funds to drive tourism activity across the state by investing in marketing and promotional projects, including media production costs, billboards, trade shows, website development and more. 

“Illinois has a great story for visitors from around the country, we need to get out there and tell it,” said Feigenholtz (D-Chicago). “Marketing dollars available through DCEO will help convention and visitors' bureaus and local governments update their pitch and image so that Illinois is next on everyone's travel list.” 

CHICAGO – In recognition of International Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders Awareness Day on Sept. 9, State Senator Sara Feigenholtz is applauding efforts by health care providers, parents, self-advocates and community organizations who work to support the FASD community, increase education and awareness, and bring evidence-based services to those living with FASD and their families.

“Today, I join advocates to recognize International FASD Awareness Day and take this time to lift up the increasing need for FASD-informed supports and services in Illinois and across the nation,” said Feigenholtz (D-Chicago). “This day is a reminder that, although we have made tremendous advancements in diagnostics and screenings for a multitude of other preventable disorders, we have much work left to do to bring informed services to the FASD community and integrate supports within our other health, education, justice and care systems.”

FASD is an umbrella term that describes the range of physical, behavioral and intellectual disabilities than can occur when someone has been exposed to alcohol before birth. Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders have been dubbed ‘the hidden epidemic’ because of the lack of supports, diagnostics and treatment services available to pregnant women, new mothers and their families.

“People with FASD and their families need accessible, affordable and competent systems of care that are evidence-based and fully funded,” said Feigenholtz. “I am proud to stand with my constituents, Bonnie and Michelle, today to highlight this critical need.”