Morrison passes measure to enhance EMT training

SPRINGFIELD – To increase efficiency in emergency response, State Senator Julie Morrison led a measure through the Senate to outline training on how to access the medical ID function within health apps on cellphones.

“With the majority of people having a cell phone on them at all times, it’s easy for people to have their own digital medical ID,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “This measure will help first responders keep up with technology and use this feature to save lives.”

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Villivalam advances legislation to expand grant access for early childhood education programs

SPRINGFIELD - To expand access to the Illinois’ Early Childhood Construction Grant program, State Senator Ram Villivalam passed legislation through the Senate that would make community-based not-for-profits eligible for $40 million.

“As a father of two, I understand the importance of having access to quality early childhood education,” said Villivalam (D-Chicago). “Our next generation is quickly growing up and it is important that we invest in resources to provide them with the quality education they need to succeed.”

The measure would allow the Capital Development Board to approve Early Childhood Construction Grants for nonprofit early childhood entities in the state – broadening eligibility to new providers, including nonprofits that rent or lease their space from another nonprofit entity.

Read more: Villivalam advances legislation to expand grant access for early childhood education programs

Hastings champions measure to alleviate highway traffic noise

SPRINGFIELD – Illinois residents are one step closer toward receiving relief from noisy highway traffic, thanks to State Senator Michael E. Hastings. 

“Illinois is the heart and soul of the nation’s interstate highway system,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort). “Our roads, bridges and highways further our state’s mission to serve as an economic hub. However, at times this comes with noisy consequences for our neighbors who live near highways.”

The Hastings-led initiative will require the Illinois Department of Transportation to implement an expansion in their noise suppression program to give those who live near existing highways some relief.”

Read more: Hastings champions measure to alleviate highway traffic noise

Ellman passes legislation for Women in Technology Task Force

SPRINGFIELD - To assist in recruiting and retention of women in technology positions, State Senator Laura Ellman passed legislation through the Senate to create the Women in Technology Task Force.

“I am extremely proud of the women in my district who worked so hard to get this legislation drafted,” said Ellman (D-Naperville). “They are passionate about how important parity is in technology, and the risks of when only one group of individuals implements technology that impacts every aspect of modern life.”

The measure would create the Women in Technology Task Force. It would study the recruitment and retention of women in technology positions, as well as their corresponding management chain. The task force would also seek to increase the representation of women in jobs that are based around technology.

Senate Bill 2682 passed the Senate Friday and now heads to the House for further consideration.