Harris advances measure to increase transparency for homeowners

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Napoleon Harris, III advanced a measure on Tuesday to increase transparency of homeowner insurance policy coverage.

“When you choose a homeowner insurance policy you should have a full picture of what the policy covers,” said Harris (D-Harvey). “This legislation empowers homeowners to make educated financial decisions about their homeowner insurance policies.”

House Bill 5357 would require an insurer to disclose whether a homeowner's insurance policy covers damage from a sewer backup or overflow from a sump pump when issuing or quoting a homeowner's policy. Further, the measure would require insurance companies to offer the policyholder an opportunity to purchase this coverage if the policy does not already include it.

Read more: Harris advances measure to increase transparency for homeowners

Johnson advances measure to ensure quality air ventilation in public schools

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Adriane Johnson advanced a measure to enhance air quality in schools – leading to better health outcomes for students.

“Minority groups and under resourced communities are disproportionately impacted by asthma, pollution and viral illness,” said Johnson (D- Buffalo Grove). “Schools should be a safe place – yet many are under-ventilated. It is necessary that we study the poor air quality in schools and identify solutions.”

House Bill 4903 would task the Illinois State Board of Education, in consultation with the Illinois Department of Public Health, to compile resources to assess air quality and maintain ventilation systems in schools. ISBE would implement outreach strategies to make these resources available to elementary and secondary schools.

Read more: Johnson advances measure to ensure quality air ventilation in public schools

Morrison to provide options on how to handle totaled vehicles

SPRINGFIELD – Finding out your vehicle is totaled can be a difficult situation and the last thing you want to do is research the cost of each part of your car. State Senator Julie Morrison introduced a measure to require vehicle insurance companies to do that work for you.

“I am committed to increasing transparency between insurance companies and consumers,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “This initiative will save people time and energy during an already trying occurrence.”

Read more: Morrison to provide options on how to handle totaled vehicles

Senators Villivalam, Villanueva and Preston rally to save after-school programs

SPRINGFIELD — Senate Democrats joined forces with advocates and partners Tuesday at the Illinois State Capitol to bolster support for funding to save after-school programs.

“As a father raising two sons, I’m constantly looking to create a nurturing and supportive environment that they can thrive in,” said State Senator Ram Villivalam (D-Chicago). “This is precisely what after-school programs offer to the young members of our communities.”

21st Century Community Learning Centers is a federal program that provides funding for after-school programs that support the creation of community learning centers for youth who attend high-poverty and low-performing schools. Advocates are rallying for Senate Bill 2943, which would appropriate $50 million in funding to support over 40,000 youths currently enrolled in programs.

Read more: Senators Villivalam, Villanueva and Preston rally to save after-school programs