New law requires Illinois to purchase American-made flags

SPRINGFIELD – A new law sponsored by State Senator Steve Stadelman (D-Rockford) and State Representative Dave Vella requires state agencies and institutions to only purchase American and Illinois flags manufactured in the United States.

“There’s no reason for us to be flying American and Illinois flags made in other countries,” Stadelman said. “This legislation rights a wrong while supporting local manufacturing and business economies at the same time.”

Read more: New law requires Illinois to purchase American-made flags

Morrison law makes corporations more transparent during pandemic

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Julie Morrison (D-Lake Forest) championed a law signed Friday that allows Illinois corporations to safely and effectively hold shareholder meetings virtually.

“While a lot of our favorite activities were halted during the pandemic – much of our daily work and meetings weren’t,” Morrison said. “Corporations must be able to have transparent and safe communications between their boards and shareholders.”

Read more: Morrison law makes corporations more transparent during pandemic

Simmons expands rental assistance qualification eligibility

CHICAGO – A new law sponsored by State Senator Mike Simmons (D-Chicago) expands eligibility requirements for the state’s Rental Housing Support Program to higher income levels.

“Many renters in our state are still reeling from the economic effects of COVID-19,” Simmons said. “The harsh reality is that many Illinoisans are burdened by their rent, and the programs we have in place to offer support need to adjust to meet that reality.”

House Bill 648 raises the income threshold for a tenant to qualify for the rental assistance program from 30% of the median family income for the area to 35%.  Once that threshold is met, tenants begin phasing out of the program, which is administered by the Illinois Housing Development Authority.

“This new law will help provide some relief to working class people as they work to rebound from a global pandemic,” Simmons said.

Gov. JB Pritzker signed the legislation into law Friday. It takes effect Jan. 1, 2022.

Ellman law will reduce use of PFAS found in firefighting foam

SPRINGFIELD – Illinois will begin phasing out toxic PFAS chemicals used in firefighting foam under a new law sponsored by State Senator Laura Ellman (D-Naperville) that was signed into law on Friday.

“PFAS exposure has been shown to have serious health consequences, including kidney issues and cancer,” Ellman said. “We need to act if we wish to decrease the public’s exposure, especially firefighters.”

Read more: Ellman law will reduce use of PFAS found in firefighting foam