CHICAGO – State Senator Mattie Hunter, a dedicated advocate for public health and champion of health legislation, held her annual Family Health and Fitness Fair on Aug. 5, bringing local residents together for a day of health screenings, resources and entertainment.
“Year after year, this health fair serves as a way to extend essential health services and information directly into our community,” said Hunter (D-Chicago). “By offering these free resources — including diabetes and kidney screenings and school physicals — we are encouraging families to prioritize their well-being.”
Read more: Hunter promotes community wellness at annual health fair
SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Laura Fine and State Representative Jennifer Gong-Gershowitz’s initiative to limit the consumption of single-use plastics and polystyrene by state agencies has just been signed into law. The Degradable Plastic Act, SB 58, prioritizes sustainability by banning the purchase or use of polystyrene or styrofoam by state agencies and universities by January 1, 2025.
“By finding environmentally friendly alternatives to styrofoam, this new law allows the state government to lead the way in protecting our environment,” said Fine (D-Glenview). “Because it is so lightweight and easily breaks apart into smaller pieces, styrofoam tends to drift away. Since it is used so much in disposable packaging, polystyrene is one of the largest causes of global pollution.”
SPRINGFIELD – Expanding upon her previously passed legislation, State Senator Julie Morrison led a new law to prohibit pesticides on school grounds within 24 hours of students being present.
“Children are at higher risk for health effects from exposure to pesticides than adults because their nervous, immune, digestive and other systems are still developing, making them more susceptible to these pollutants compared to adults,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “Keeping harmful chemicals away from children will protect them from a plethora of potential health problems.”
Read more: Morrison to keep children safe from harmful pesticides on school grounds
SPRINGFIELD – More individuals needing prosthetic or orthotic devices will soon have them covered by insurance under a measure sponsored by State Senator Ann Gillespie that was signed into law Monday.
"With this legislation, we are ensuring that those who use prosthetic or orthotic devices can acquire the most appropriate models to enhance their overall health," said Gillespie (D-Arlington Heights). "Expanding what is covered by insurance will allow more individuals to get the devices they need to regain mobility and participate in the activities they enjoy.”
Read more: Gillespie expands coverage for prosthetic and orthotic devices
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