Welcome to Illinois Senate Democratic Caucus

Guzmán cracks down on landlords and AI corporations

SPRINGFIELD – In the face of sky-high rental costs in Chicago and across Illinois, Senator Graciela Guzmán is working to crack down on price fixing schemes landlords conduct using AI algorithms.

“This measure is about restoring fairness, transparency and accountability to our housing market by cracking down on AI-driven rent fixing schemes that undermine competition and exploit renters,” said Guzmán. “I’m proud to have worked alongside partners at the city, state and local levels to confront the growing abuse of algorithmic pricing tools and put people ahead of corporate greed.” 

Read more: Guzmán cracks down on landlords and AI corporations

Cunningham measure expands opportunities for deputy sheriff recruitment

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Bill Cunningham advanced legislation that would help law enforcement agencies recruit and retain qualified deputy sheriffs.

“Departments across the state are facing ongoing staffing shortages, and we need to make sure qualified young adults have a pathway into public service careers,” said Cunningham a Democrat who represents portions of Chicago and the Southwest Suburbs. “This legislation helps modernize recruitment standards while maintaining important training and probationary requirements.”

Senate Bill 1700 would maintain the current minimum age requirement of 21 years old for county police officers, while allowing individuals to serve beginning at age 20 if they have completed two years of law enforcement studies at an accredited college or university. The measure would also allow correctional officers and full-time deputy sheriffs not employed as county police officers to be appointed beginning at age 18.

Read more: Cunningham measure expands opportunities for deputy sheriff recruitment

Edly-Allen advances new AI safety measure to address catastrophic risks, increasing transparency

SPRINGFIELD – Senator Mary Edly-Allen advanced legislation Wednesday to establish safety standards and transparency requirements for the largest artificial intelligence developers as AI systems become increasingly integrated into critical infrastructure, cybersecurity and public safety operations.

“Artificial intelligence is advancing rapidly and is like the ‘Wild Wild West’ with little to no guardrails in place. While these tools can create opportunities, they also come with serious risks if left unchecked,” said Edly-Allen (D-Grayslake). “This measure is about putting responsible safeguards in place before a preventable catastrophe occurs. Illinois has an opportunity to lead the nation by setting clear expectations for transparency, accountability and public safety.”

Read more: Edly-Allen advances new AI safety measure to address catastrophic risks, increasing transparency

Murphy aims to strengthen Illinois consumer data protection through new legislation

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Laura Murphy is advancing legislation to provide consumers in Illinois with rights to their personal data online.

“Private companies should not have limitless control over the personal data of consumers, and should face consequences if they violate consumer privacy,” said Murphy (D-Des Plaines). “Consumers have a right to know what data is being collected and the steps they can take to limit the use of their data.”

Read more: Murphy aims to strengthen Illinois consumer data protection through new legislation