News Archive - Majority Report

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.”

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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.”

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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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MEMBERS IN THE NEWS

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

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