Glowiak Hilton: Timeliness a major concern for residents needing professional licenses

OAKBROOK TERRACE – To improve convenience and accessibility for working people, state licenses from the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation would be issued in four weeks under an initiative by State Senator Suzy Glowiak Hilton (D-Western Springs).

“Health care workers, accountants and cosmetologists are ready to enter their respective industries but are unable to get started without a professional license from the state,” Glowiak Hilton said. “With this initiative, I hope to expedite the time it takes IDFPR to process applications and allow residents to enter the work force sooner.”

As chair of the Senate Commerce Committee, Glowiak Hilton prioritizes legislation to benefit workers and support economic development throughout the state. Under the legislation, IDFPR will be required to process applications within four weeks as long as there were no deficiencies submitted.

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Koehler-backed initiative brings $500,000 to local pre-apprenticeship programs

PEKIN – Thanks to State Senator Dave Koehler’s support of a multi-year plan to bring thousands of jobs to local communities, SkillsUSA Illinois in Pekin was selected to receive $500,000 to support construction pre-apprenticeship programs that will create a qualified talent pipeline of diverse candidates.

“Honest, good-paying jobs should be available in all fields to anyone willing to put in the work,” said Koehler (D-Peoria). “Unfortunately, certain groups may not have the same opportunities as others. This funding will help open doors and break down barriers to welcome people of all demographics and backgrounds into the trades.”

Read more: Koehler-backed initiative brings $500,000 to local pre-apprenticeship programs

Johnson launches Valentines for seniors collection drive

WAUKEGAN — To express love and lift the spirits of local seniors, State Senator Adriane Johnson (D-Buffalo Grove) is collecting store-bought or hand-made cards to deliver to long-term care facility residents on Valentine’s Day.

“Older adults, especially those who may live far from family, need a chance to connect with others,” Johnson said. “One simple card can deliver so much power.”

Read more: Johnson launches Valentines for seniors collection drive

Glowiak Hilton proposal strengthens protections for consumers

OAKBROOK TERRACE – To give consumers options in contracts set to automatically renew, State Senator Suzy Glowiak Hilton (D-Western Springs) introduced a measure to require companies to give a clear notification of the agreement’s terms before the consumer accepts.

“Automatic renewal contracts have become increasingly popular in recent years due to streaming services, retail, cell phone companies and more,” said Glowiak Hilton, chair of the Senate Commerce Committee. “To ensure consumers are aware of the automatic renewal commitment, this initiative requires companies to reiterate the contract before consumers accept its terms.”

Read more: Glowiak Hilton proposal strengthens protections for consumers