Senate Democrats adjust floor dress code for a good cause

SPRINGFIELD — In place of the traditional loafers, high heels and flats, the Illinois Senate Democrats arrived to the chamber floor on Tuesday in their sneakers, a jarringly causal look compared to their usual attire in the General Assembly. However, this wardrobe change wasn’t because they wanted to be more comfortable during the longer session days – members of the caucus were participating in the American Cancer Society’s nationwide Suits and Sneakers campaign to raise awareness of cancer prevention, screening and early detection.

“Cancer has devastating impacts on families in our state, but there are methods to detect cancer early or prevent its growth,” said State Senator Julie Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “As the Chair of the Health and Human Services committee, I am proud to participate in the Suits and Sneakers event to raise visibility and support for the American Cancer Society’s important work, and to encourage more Illinoisans to get screened for cancer.”

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Porfirio measure to offer more flexibility to service members pursuing higher education

BURBANK – Members of the National Guard and Reserve who are college or university students could soon be able to make up coursework they missed due to military obligations, thanks to a measure sponsored by State Senator Mike Porfirio.

“It’s vital we support our servicemen and women in all facets of their lives, including their educational pursuits,” said Porfirio (D-Lyons Township), a member of the U.S. Navy Reserve. “This bill aims to alleviate the burden on National Guard and Reserve members by ensuring they have the opportunity to excel academically without being penalized for their commitment to military service.”

According to Student Veterans of America, around 16% of military students are members of the Reserve or National Guard. Porfirio’s measure would ensure fair treatment for these students by requiring public colleges and universities in Illinois to enact policies allowing students to complete missed classwork and assignments if the reason for the student’s absence was to fulfill military obligations. 

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Illinois Senate Democrats highlight local parks

The Illinois Senate Democratic Caucus welcomed park districts from across the state to the Capitol for Parks Day. This annual day is a special event where park districts from across the state converge in Springfield to demonstrate the vibrant role they play in enhancing our communities.

“As a longtime advocate for local parks, I always look forward to welcoming the park, recreation, conservation, and special recreation districts to the Capitol for Parks Day,” said State Senator Adriane Johnson (D-Buffalo Grove). “The preservation of parks and recreation is essential in promoting health and wellness in our community and environment.”

Illinois Parks Day is not just an event – it is a celebration of the green spaces that form the heart of our neighborhoods across Illinois. From the shores of Lake Michigan to the banks of the Mississippi River, parks represent places of joy, recreation and sanctuary for all Illinois residents. This day offers a unique opportunity for state legislators and the public to engage directly with park district representatives and learn about the innovative programs and services they offer.

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Villa measure promoting native plant species advances

SPRINGFIELD – In order to cultivate more native plant species and support local ecosystems, State Senator Karina Villa advanced a measure that would allow a higher volume of native species to be planted across the state.

“Illinois is the prairie state. Our native plant species are unique and vital to local ecosystems,” said Villa (D-West Chicago). “Planting more native species will support pollinators, while beautifying our state and supporting agriculture.”

House Bill 5296 would allow residents living in neighborhoods with a homeowners’ association to plant native species in their yards as long as the area is maintained. Additionally, homeowners’ associations would be prohibited from imposing height restrictions or impairing proper maintenance of the native landscape to ensure the heath of the habitat.

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