Johnson advances measure to empower students to learn about climate solutions

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Adriane Johnson advanced a measure Tuesday to enhance student knowledge on climate control.

“Our youth are already engaged on the topic of climate change and are eager to learn more about the real solutions and how it impacts all aspects of society,” said Johnson (D- Buffalo Grove). “Learning opportunities should be available to students to further their understanding of potential solutions to the issues climate changes poses.”

House Bill 4895 would task public schools in Illinois with providing learning opportunities on the environmental and ecological impacts of climate change and solutions for addressing the crisis. Schools would be granted the flexibility to decide whether to create a separate class or implement these lessons into existing relevant classes.

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Ellman works to expand fentanyl education for grades 6-12

SPRINGFIELD – At the start of the 2025-2026 school year, all students in grades six through 12 would be required to learn about the dangers of fentanyl under a measure sponsored by State Senator Laura Ellman.

“Our youth represent our future, but also make up one of our most vulnerable populations,” said Ellman (D-Naperville). “We need to educate students sooner rather than later on the prevalence of fentanyl in our communities and the severe, long-term detriment it has on perpetuating the ongoing opioid epidemic.”

According to the Illinois Department of Public Health, a lethal dose of fentanyl is smaller than a drop of water. Opioids, including fentanyl, heroin and other drugs, are involved in 70% of fatal drug overdoses.

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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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