News

Senate Democrats highlight continued PFAS prevention efforts

SPRINGFIELD — As Illinois recognized PFAS Awareness Week, members of the Illinois Senate Democratic Caucus are highlighting a comprehensive effort to reduce exposure to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, strengthen environmental monitoring and protect Illinois families from these persistent chemicals.

“Parents shouldn’t have to question whether products made for their children contain intentionally added chemicals when safer alternatives exist,” State Senator Laura Fine said. “This bill reduces unnecessary PFAS exposure in items designed for infants and children while still accounting for essential medical uses and federal requirements.”

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Harmon, Halpin support Joslin following Tyson Foods facility closure

JOSLIN — Senate President Don Harmon and State Senator Mike Halpin have fought to support the Joslin community following the recent closing of Tyson Foods’ beef plant in the town.

“Illinois is home to a world-leading agriculture industry built on generations of hard work by farm families and the people who process, move and deliver what they produce,” said Harmon (D-Oak Park). “We know this is a challenging time for many of those families and workers. I appreciate Governor Pritzker moving quickly to put the state’s economic development resources to work and sending a clear message that Illinois is ready to compete for the businesses and quality jobs these communities deserve.”

“I’m pleased to see Governor Pritzker and DCEO taking action to bring new jobs and investment to the former Tyson facility in Joslin,” said Halpin (D-Rock Island). “When Tyson abruptly closed the plant with little warning, thousands of hardworking people and their families were left facing an uncertain future. This community deserves better, and I’m hopeful this investment will help attract a new employer, create good-paying jobs and bring greater economic stability back to the region.”

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Joyce celebrates grand opening of Voortman Steel USA Headquarters in Monee

MONEE — State Senator Patrick Joyce joined Voortman Steel Machinery leadership, Governor Pritzker, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity and local leaders to celebrate the grand opening of the company’s $51 million expansion project in Monee.

“I am glad to say that this state has fully backed what we are seeing today,” said Joyce (D-Essex). “This is our third major project in this manufacturing corridor. The Voortman Headquarters will be in this community for generations to come, and that’s something to be proud of.”

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Children's Social Media Safety

Today’s parents face an ever-changing world of social media algorithms designed to keep children scrolling. State Senator Willie Preston discusses the Children’s Online Social Media Safety Act, recently signed into law to provide age verification, notification limits, privacy protections and put parents back in control.

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MEMBERS IN THE NEWS

State Senator Michael E. Hastings, Frankfort: Governor JB Pritzker signs protections against insurance rate hikes | Chicago Tribune

State Senator Julie Morrison, Lake Forest: Illinois recognizes gambling addiction, allowing new treatment options | WMOI

State Senator Ram Villivalam, Chicago: Governor Pritzker signs insurance reforms to protect consumers and address affordability | Riverbender

Copyright 2026 - Illinois Senate Democratic Caucus - All Rights Reserved

Koehler shares his enthusiasm for new Illinois State University College of Engineering

NORMAL — State Senator Dave Koehler joined Illinois State University leaders and state officials to celebrate the opening of the university’s new College of Engineering facility.

“The opening of Illinois State University’s School of Engineering is an exciting investment in our students and the future of our workforce,” said Koehler (D-Peoria). “Expanding opportunities to pursue engineering at ISU will help grow the talent pipeline so more students call central Illinois home.”

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Hunter, Turner highlight continued investment to prevent food insecurity

SPRINGFIELD — State Senators Mattie Hunter and Doris Turner announced new funding opportunities under the Illinois Grocery Initiative. Together, the New Stores in Food Deserts, Equipment Upgrades and Grocery Rescue grant programs represent a $26 million effort to address food deserts and prevent grocery store closures in communities across the state.

“All Illinoisans deserve access to fresh and healthy foods,” said Hunter (D-Chicago). “The Illinois Grocery Initiative is critical to ensuring this goal becomes a reality. I’m thrilled to see the state’s continued investment in these efforts to prevent food insecurities across Illinois.”

“The Illinois Grocery Initiative has been essential to combating the development of food deserts across the state,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “This next round of funding will build upon the state’s continued efforts to eliminate food deserts and support local grocers, while simultaneously boosting our state’s economy.”

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Sims celebrates Illinois' 12th consecutive credit upgrade since 2021

CHICAGO — For the second time in one week, Illinois has seen another improved bond rating. S&P Global Ratings – one of the nation’s major credit rating agencies – announced a credit upgrade thanks to the fiscally responsible decisions made by Illinois Democrats.

In response, Majority Caucus Appropriations Leader Elgie R. Sims, Jr. (D-Chicago) released the following statement:

“Today’s news confirms that years of making fiscal discipline our guiding principle are working as intended – we are helping Illinois maintain stability and make smart investments during federal uncertainty that are setting Illinois up for long-term financial success. S&P’s upgrade shows our responsible budgeting approach is paying off and is independent proof that Illinois is an excellent investment."

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Expanding access to education

State Senator Javier Cervantes discusses efforts to make higher education more accessible for Illinois students, including his partnership with Hope Chicago and legislation giving students dedicated time and assistance to complete the FAFSA, as well as the importance of continued investment in education.

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MEMBERS IN THE NEWS

State Senator Mary Edly-Allen, Grayslake: Lawmakers behind state AI safety laws call for industry-wide AI safety pact to protect the public | EIN Presswire

State Senator Mike Halpin, Rock Island: Portion of US 150 in Galesburg dedicated to fallen soldier | WQAD

State Senator Ram Villivalam, Chicago: Illinois Treasurer Frerichs, labor leaders highlight new law allowing investment in affordable housing ahead of Labor Day | The Business Gazette Online

Copyright 2026 - Illinois Senate Democratic Caucus - All Rights Reserved

Happy Labor Day!

This Labor Day, let’s take time to thank all the hardworking men and women in Illinois who work every day to make our state a great place to live.

Illinois has a proud history of working people standing together. We thank all the frontline workers who risk their safety daily to take care of the rest of us.

Have an enjoyable and safe Labor Day!

Copyright 2026 - Illinois Senate Democratic Caucus - All Rights Reserved

Villivalam leads law regulating use of micromobility devices

SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Ram Villivalam spearheaded a new law that establishes regulations for the use of toy vehicles, motor-driven bicycles and other small, low-speed electric mobility devices in Illinois.

“Technology is evolving, providing expanded mobility options for our neighbors through the rise in popularity of e-bikes and scooters,” said Villivalam (D-Chicago). “But without clear regulations for these devices, we are seeing increased injuries and accidents – jeopardizing community safety.”

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Lightford leads law to allow clear designation of intellectual disabilities on a driver's license

SPRINGFIELD — Senate Majority Leader Kimberly A. Lightford pushed for a protocol that will give drivers with autism and other intellectual disabilities the ability to clearly define their disability on their license – leading to safer traffic stops and interactions with law enforcement.

“A routine traffic stop is stressful for anyone – but for a driver with autism or another condition that affects how they process social cues and respond to commands, it can quickly escalate into a crisis,” said Lightford (D-Maywood). "Both the driver and officer deserve tools to prevent that escalation.”

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Guzmán law improves health, safety and dignity on construction jobsites

SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Graciela Guzmán’s legislation, developed in partnership with Chicago Women in Trades, to improve sanitation, workplace accommodations and access to menstrual products on construction jobsites has been signed into law.

“Every worker deserves to be treated with dignity and have access to safe, sanitary working conditions,” said Guzmán (D-Chicago). “For too long, construction workers who menstruate, are pregnant or are lactating have been expected to work without the most basic accommodations. These are not special privileges. They are common-sense workplace standards that help more women and transgender folks to enter, stay in and thrive in the trades.”

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MEMBERS IN THE NEWS

State Senator Christopher Belt, Swansea: Belt measure expanding grant opportunities for volunteer fire departments signed into law | MSN

State Senator Steve Stadelman, Rockford: New Illinois laws target domestic violence, sexual assault care | The State Journal-Register

State Senator Rachel Ventura, Joliet: Ventura highlights recent expansion of high-speed internet access across Illinois | WJOL

Copyright 2026 - Illinois Senate Democratic Caucus - All Rights Reserved

Illinois has earned its 11th credit rating upgrade since 2021, as Moody’s Investors Service cited eight consecutive balanced budgets and responsible fiscal management in raising the state to its highest rating in nearly 15 years. The latest upgrade continues a dramatic reversal in Illinois’ financial trajectory in recent years.

“Eleven credit rating upgrades is a remarkable validation of the responsible, steady approach we have taken to Illinois’ finances,” said Senate President Don Harmon (D-Oak Park). “Eight consecutive balanced budgets have brought stability and predictability back to state government. We’ve paid our bills, built our reserves and reduced debt, all while continuing to invest in the people and priorities that make Illinois stronger. This latest upgrade is another sign that responsible budgeting pays dividends for taxpayers and puts Illinois in a stronger position for whatever challenges come next.”

Higher credit ratings allow Illinois to borrow at lower interest rates, reducing financing costs and saving taxpayer dollars.

In announcing the upgrade, Moody’s pointed to Illinois’ balanced budgets, fiscal management and stronger reserves as reasons for increased confidence in the state’s ability to manage future budget pressures.

Moody’s upgrades Illinois’ credit rating -- Capitol News Illinois

Moody’s upgrades Illinois credit rating -- Crain's Chicago Business