Hunter: Pregnant girls still deserve an education

SPRINGFIELD – A measure led by State Senator Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago) to ensure policies will be put in place if someone misses school due to pregnancy-related issues is now law.

“Pregnant women still deserve quality access to education,” Hunter said. “Girls should not have to miss out schooling just because they got pregnant.”

Under the law, all Illinois school boards will be required to adopt written policies related to absences and missed homework or classwork assignments as a result of or related to a student's pregnancy.

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New Simmons-sponsored law gathers data on effect of COVID-19 in LBGTQ+ communities

CHICAGO – A new law sponsored by State Senator Mike Simmons (D-Chicago) requires hospitals and state agencies to gather more data in order to better understand how the COVID-19 pandemic has harmed LGBTQIA communities, older adults, and people with disabilities in Illinois.

“I see this as the first step to ensuring visibility and justice for historically wronged communities, which is especially important as Illinois recovers from a pandemic that has only aggravated these injustices,” Simmons said. “This is a response to valid concerns about how the COVID-19 pandemic in particular is harming communities that already were very poorly served by the health care system.”

Read more: New Simmons-sponsored law gathers data on effect of COVID-19 in LBGTQ+ communities

Hastings plan to prioritize the development of amateur athletes signed into law

SPRINGFIELD - To reaffirm the State of Illinois’ commitment to amateur athletics, State Senator Michael E. Hastings has introduced the Illinois Amateur Sports Commission Act, which was signed into law Friday.

“Over the past school year, not only did Illinois students lose the chance to make treasured memories with their teammates and friends, they lost the chance to prove they have what it takes to potentially earn a college scholarship. Though we cannot make up for that lost time, we can improve the way amateur sports programs throughout the state are conducted, and it is my hope that this commission can play a key role in that development.”

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Senator Fine legislation to expand birth center accessibility signed into law

SPRINGFIELD – Pregnant women will have more options on where to deliver under a new law sponsored by State Senator Laura Fine (D-Glenview) that establishes a path to permanent licensure for freestanding birth centers.

“Expecting mothers should have the ability to choose their birth style without limitations caused by a lack of freestanding birth center licenses in their area,” Senator Fine said. “Whether a pregnant woman is seeking a certified nurse midwife or they simply want a lower-cost birthing style, lifting the licensure cap for freestanding birth centers will help increase access to birth centers across Illinois.”

Read more: Senator Fine legislation to expand birth center accessibility signed into law