Senator Holmes to governor: sign legislation prohibiting poaching and trafficking of at-risk animal species

SPRINGFIELD – House Bill 395 is awaiting action on the governor’s desk, and Assistant Senate Majority Leader Linda Holmes (D-Aurora) is urging him to sign the legislation to protect animal species facing the threat of extinction. The measure would prohibit the trafficking of exotic animal parts in Illinois.

“While Illinois leads the nation in so many areas of animal welfare, we are behind the federal government when it comes to illegal smuggling and trafficking of animals’ body parts,” Holmes said. “Federal policy has been strengthened, and Illinois needs to take action. This legislation has passed through the General Assembly, and simply awaits the governor’s signature.”

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Suburban lawmakers praise Illinois’ sound fiscal policymaking decisions

SPRINGFIELD – Fitch Rating released a revised outlook on Illinois’ financial forecast earlier this week, a move several suburban lawmakers praise as a direct result of responsible spending.

“After years of fiscal irresponsibility and chaos under the previous governor, these rating upgrades are an example of what we can accomplish by working together to implement responsible budgets,” said State Senator Michael E. Hastings (D-Frankfort).. “This is a vote of confidence in the future of our state.”

“Legislative actions have consequences and we are seeing the choices made by the General Assembly over the past several years yield positive results,” said State Senator John Connor (D-Lockport).“The bottom line is that this is a concrete example of fiscal responsibility creating an incredibly bright future for our state.”

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Morrison speaks out on enhanced DCFS training for LGBTQ youth in care

HIGHWOOD – Following recent findings that the Illinois Department of Children and Family was not respecting the needs of LGBTQ youth in care, the agency announced Tuesday it is enhancing its LGBTQ training and resources. State Senator Julie Morrison (D-Lake Forest) is calling on the department to adhere to its policies to ensure all children feel safe and heard.

“LGBTQ youth in care are disproportionately likely to become homeless and deal with mental health struggles,” Morrison said. “I am hopeful under the enhanced training DCFS will work more diligently to respect LGBTQ children’s identities and prioritize the care they need.”

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New election law signed to encourage more voters to participate

SPRINGFIELD – Following the success of a law to provide more efficient ways for people to cast their ballot from home during the peak of the pandemic, a new proposal to make voting by mail permanently more accessible was signed into law.

“This keeps in place a number of voter conveniences that have proven popular,” said Senate President Don Harmon (D-Oak Park). “It’s a great example of lawmakers listening to the diverse voices of voters and taking steps to maintain and encourage voter participation.”

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