News

Details: Category: Majority Report; Monday, May 25, 2026 06:30 AM

Illinois Senate Democrats pass nation-leading AI safety and privacy package

SPRINGFIELD — Illinois is a step closer to becoming a national leader in the realm of enhancing safety and privacy within the artificial intelligence space after members of the Illinois Senate Democratic Caucus passed their comprehensive plan that would put forth AI protections as it relates to mental health help, identity security, price gouging safeguards and other areas that need more guardrails.

“Artificial intelligence is already shaping nearly every part of our daily lives, and Illinois cannot afford to wait for Washington to act,” said State Senator Bill Cunningham, a Democrat who represents portions of Chicago and the Southwest Suburbs. “This legislative package is the result of months of hearings and collaboration focused on creating responsible safeguards around AI, including consumer protections, data privacy, child safety and transparency in schools. Our goal is to help establish clear standards that protect the public while allowing innovation to move forward responsibly.”

Aquino measure to ban 'junk' fees passes Senate

SPRINGFIELD — To support families amid a national affordability crisis, State Senator Omar Aquino passed a measure banning ‘junk’ fees out of the Senate.

“Right now, families are feeling the pressure at checkout when they’re paying for groceries or getting gas,” said Aquino (D-Chicago). “When every dollar counts, families need to know exactly how much they’re expected to pay for the services they need.”

Villivalam-backed measure would ensure mental health support for educational staff

SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Ram Villivalam is leading the charge in tackling the mental health crisis thanks to a new measure that would ensure mental health support for educational staff.

“The mental health crisis continues to affect people every day,” said Villivalam (D-Chicago). “Currently, educational staff do not have the mental health support or resources needed to get the care they deserve – and now it’s up to us to help break down these barriers so they can access care.”

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Senator Elgie R. Sims, Jr., Chicago: Bill to boost compensation for wrongfully incarcerated moves forward | Chicago Crusader

Senator Rachel Ventura, Joliet: Illinois lawmakers advance bill to help consumers get cash back on returns | WCIA

Senator Karina Villa, West Chicago: Illinois Senate sends bill helping homeless students to Pritzker's desk | WAND

Details: Category: Majority Report; Monday, May 18, 2026 06:30 AM

Illinois Senate Democrats highlight AI safety and privacy legislation

SPRINGFIELD — Illinois is working to become a national leader in the realm of enhancing safety and privacy within the artificial intelligence space. During a press conference, members of the Illinois Senate Democratic Caucus outlined their multi-measure package that would put forth protections against harmful AI outcomes as it relates to mental health help, identity security, price gouging safeguards and other areas that need more guardrails.

“Artificial intelligence is already shaping nearly every part of our daily lives, and Illinois cannot afford to wait for Washington to act,” said Bill Cunningham, a Democrat who represents portions of Chicago and the Southwest Suburbs. “This legislative package is the result of months of hearings and collaboration focused on creating responsible safeguards around AI, including consumer protections, data privacy, child safety and transparency in schools. Our goal is to help establish clear standards that protect the public while allowing innovation to move forward responsibly.”

Hastings' landmark insurance reform passes Senate

SPRINGFIELD — Capping off years of advocacy and negotiations, State Senator Michael E. Hastings carried legislation that would protect Illinois homeowners from unfair rate hikes similar to those endured in the last few years.

“On behalf of my neighbors back home, I have made it my mission to get them the answers they deserve on their insurance bill,” said Hastings. “There is no world where insurance companies should get away with 20% or more rate hikes without having to explain where those numbers are coming from.”

Halpin measure to keep track of Illinois student loan market passes Senate

SPRINGFIELD — In the face of higher student debt for many in Illinois and across the country, State Senator Mike Halpin’s measure to keep track of the private student loan borrowing market has passed the Senate.

“With the Trump administration placing caps on federal lending for student borrowers, we need to keep track of where the Illinois student loan market is at,” said Halpin (D-Rock Island). “Monitoring student loan default rates and loans with cosigners will give us a clearer picture of how students are doing with their debt and what actions Illinois can make to assist them.”

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Senator Mattie Hunter, Chicago: Hunter moves to eliminate discriminatory limits for disability insurance | Insurance NewsNet

Senator Meg Loughran Cappel, Shorewood: Loughran Cappel measure to expand inclusive language education for deaf children | The Times Weekly

Senator Julie Morrison, Lake Forest: Illinois Senate committee approves plan requiring speed control devices for reckless drivers | WAND

Details: Category: News; Tuesday, May 12, 2026 05:42 PM

The Illinois Senate recently hosted former Illinois First Lady Brenda Edgar as we paid homage to her late husband, former Gov. Jim Edgar.

The Senate approved a resolution that declares July 22, 2026, as Governor Jim Edgar Day in the State of Illinois in recognition of former Governor Jim Edgar's life, his legacy, and his extraordinary career in public service.

Senator President Harmon's remarks:

Mr. President, ladies and gentlemen of the Senate, and to all of our guests here today, Governor Jim Edgar's leadership, both in office and out, made our state a better place. Governor Edgar guided Illinois through difficult times and made hard decisions he believed were right, knowing not everyone would agree, and in fact, knowing quite a few people would disagree. His brand of steady, principled leadership, his intellectual consistency, is what endures.

As a Democrat, I can say this plainly, Jim Edgar was a true statesman. He believed government was a place to solve problems, not to stage them. And while his years in office are an important part of our history, his work afterward may be his most lasting legacy.

Through the Edgar Fellows Program, he invested in leaders on both sides of the aisle, teaching that respect, listening, and compromise are essential to good government. I've had an opportunity to spend time with many of the Fellows. You can see the Governor's influence in how they approach this work.

Government doesn't have to be, and should not be, a show. Mrs. Edgar, thank you for sharing your husband with the people of Illinois. My sympathies remain with your family, and I offer my deep appreciation for a life of service that made this state stronger.

Details: Category: Majority Report; Monday, May 11, 2026 06:32 AM

Sims leads historic measure to raise compensation for the wrongfully incarcerated

SPRINGFIELD — Taking a step toward rectifying a serious flaw in the justice system, State Senator Elgie R. Sims, Jr. is leading a landmark measure to help exonerees rebuild financially and make a smoother transition back into their community.

“We must be vigilant in making sure the criminal justice system upholds fairness,” said Sims (D-Chicago). “That means acknowledging the life-changing pain caused by wrongful incarceration and supporting the individuals and families who have been affected by this grave injustice.”

Senate Democrats gather at the capitol for the 16th annual Latino Unity Day

SPRINGFIELD — Members of the Illinois Legislative Latino Caucus joined community organizations, advocates, and professionals at the State Capitol on May 5 and 6 for the 16th annual Latino Unity Day.

Over the two-day event, Senate members led panel discussions on topics ranging from Latino representation in government to key policy priorities. Lawmakers also delivered keynote remarks during the event’s legislative breakfast. This year’s theme, “Defending Our Rights, Building Our Future,” highlighted the need for strong advocacy as Latino communities confront challenges such as funding cuts to SNAP and federal actions affecting communities.

“The federal government somehow finds money for deportations, detentions, tax breaks for billionaires, and policies that make our communities feel less safe, but when we say we need healthcare, food funding, housing, schools, child care, and safety, we are told to wait,” said Senate Latino Caucus Chair Graciela Guzman (D-Chicago). “In spaces like this, we continue to advance policy because there are tangible things we can do at the state level.”

Senate Democrats donned suits and sneakers for cancer awareness

SPRINGFIELD — As is Springfield tradition, the Illinois Senate Democrats swapped their customary loafers, high heels and flats for sneakers at the Illinois State Capitol to participate in the American Cancer Society’s nationwide Suits and Sneakers campaign, raising awareness of cancer prevention, screenings and early detection.

“The lasting impacts of cancer can be felt across our state, and residents should be aware of all the methods we have today to detect cancer early and save lives,” said State Senator Mike Simmons (D-Chicago), chair of the Senate Public Health Committee. “The progress we continue to make every day encourages me to not only participate in Suits and Sneakers to raise awareness, but also to continue supporting the efforts of the American Cancer Society as we come together to encourage residents to stay safe and get screened.”

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Senator Laura Ellman, Naperville: Illinois lawmakers, Michael J. Fox Foundation push for statewide paraquat ban | WAND

Senator Adriane Johnson, Buffalo Grove: Senate committee passes bill to protect prescription info for trans, abortion patients | WGLT

Senator Patrick Joyce, Essex: Joyce advances bill strengthening crematory oversight following Chicago Heights investigation | The Chicagoland Journal

Details: Category: Majority Report; Monday, May 04, 2026 06:36 AM

Villa advances legislation tackling childhood homelessness

SPRINGFIELD — To provide stability in the lives of children experiencing homelessness, State Senator Karina Villa advanced a measure that would expand access to emergency housing assistance for students and their families.

“As a former school social worker, I’ve seen first-hand how housing instability suppresses a student’s ability to learn,” said Villa (D-West Chicago). “Children cannot be expected to focus on learning when they are worried about where they will sleep at night. Every child deserves a safe, stable place to live, and it’s our responsibility to close the gaps that leave too many families without support.”

Ellman measure expanding access to high school coursework for middle schoolers advances

SPRINGFIELD — To ensure that more students can get ahead academically while maintaining strong instructional standards, State Senator Laura Ellman advanced House Bill 4239, which would expand access to high school-level coursework for seventh and eighth grade students.

“Students learn at different paces, and our policies should reflect that,” said Ellman (D-Naperville). “This measure ensures that motivated middle school students have clear, equitable access to high school coursework, without unnecessary barriers, while maintaining the high standards families expect.”

Glowiak Hilton prioritizes railroad safety for students

SPRINGFIELD — In an effort to keep students safe, State Senator Suzy Glowiak Hilton is leading a measure to include railroad safety information in student handbooks.

“Student safety has to be at the forefront of our priorities,” said Glowiak Hilton (D-Western Springs). “Our residents have expressed concern about schools near railroads and ensuring students understand the protocols in place to keep them safe.”

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Senator Graciela Guzmán, Chicago: Illinois Senate Democrats pass right to mask bill, send plan to House | WAND

Senator Mattie Hunter, Chicago: Illinois bill could ban use of forever chemicals in beauty products | WAND

Senator Steve Stadelman, Rockford: New Illinois bill aims to ban speculative ticket sales for live events | CBS News