Pair of Feigenholtz proposals modernizing marriage certificates become law

CHICAGO – A pair of proposals that State Senator Sara Feigenholtz (D-Chicago) sponsored to modernize marriage certificates in Illinois are now law, after being signed by the governor Tuesday.

“Today, we commit to righting the wrongs of the past and providing a path for our residents to live a life that truly reflects how they identify,” Feigenholtz said.

Under Senate Bill 139, married couples will now be able to request a marriage certificate from their county clerk without any gender identifying language. This includes changing terms like "bride" and "groom" to gender neutral alternatives, such as "spouse."

Read more: Pair of Feigenholtz proposals modernizing marriage certificates become law

Infertility treatment coverage expanded to include marginalized women under Senator Fine measure

SPRINGFIELD – Insurance coverage for infertility treatment for all women, regardless of marital status, will be accessible under a measure sponsored by State Senator Laura Fine (D-Glenview), which was signed into law Tuesday. 

“Every woman in Illinois deserves insurance coverage for infertility treatment,” Senator Fine said. “If a woman is experiencing fertility issues, she should be covered by insurance regardless of her age, medical history, partner status or sexual orientation.”

Current coverage requirements only protect infertility treatments for women under 35 who are unable to become pregnant after one year of trying, women over 35 who are unable to become pregnant after six months, and women who are not medically able to conceive.

Read more: Infertility treatment coverage expanded to include marginalized women under Senator Fine measure

Peters decriminalizes HIV transmission

CHICAGO – Individuals living with HIV will no longer have to fear prosecution thanks to a new law sponsored by State Senator Robert Peters (D-Chicago).

“The criminalization of HIV does not line up with current science,” Peters said. “These laws are outdated, dangerous, and discriminatory, and have no place in modern society. Starting today, individuals who are living with this difficult medical condition will no longer have to worry about experiencing legal consequences for simply living their lives.”

Read more: Peters decriminalizes HIV transmission

Bush, Hunter applaud $13 million to fight opioid crisis

SPRINGFIELD – Longstanding champions of the fight against the ongoing opioid epidemic, State Senators Melinda Bush and Mattie Hunter applaud the Illinois Department of Human Services’ $14 million investment to expand access to lifesaving overdose medication.

“Narcan is as essential as having a working fire alarm in your home. The overdose crisis is killing at least 10 Illinoisans or 250 Americans every single day. That’s more than car crashes, homicides or suicides,” said Bush (D-Grayslake). “Thanks to IDHS expanding access, organizations like Live4Lali can distribute it to anyone, anytime for free. Overdose is preventable and reversible. This is a huge advancement in our fight to save our lives.”

Read more: Bush, Hunter applaud $13 million to fight opioid crisis