Ventura law to expand broadband to public schools and libraries

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Rachel Ventura spearheaded a new law that will expand greater access to broadband at all public schools and libraries in the state.

“High-speed internet is at the forefront of all parts of our lives – from work to school, and everything in between,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “This bill takes the first step towards improving high quality, fiberoptic broadband throughout all of Illinois by developing the ‘middle mile’ and making sure there is public sector option.”

Instead of handing the nearly $1.2 Billion in federal funding over to internet giants, Ventura wants to create competition in the market place and use those taxpayer dollars to reduce costs for Illinois families.

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Johnson’s new law to expand training for ambulance drivers

SPRINGFIELD – In May of 2022, a 23-year-old resident from the district State Senator Adriane Johnson represents lost his life after an ambulance collided with his motorcycle. Over the next year, she worked with his family to honor his life and ensure that no other person is injured or killed in such a way.

“Proper training will help save lives,” said Johnson (D-Buffalo Grove). “As first responders work to protect one life, we must ensure other lives are not at risk.”

The measure comes after Donald Stallworth, III was tragically killed when his motorcycle was struck by an ambulance that went through a stop sign without active sirens. Reports from the crash said the ambulance did not have its siren on. Johnson worked in tandem with Stallworth’s family to ensure what happened that tragic day in Waukegan won’t happen to another person.

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Villa law creates new path to licensure for social workers

SPRINGFIELD – Following findings of testing bias in social worker licensure exams, State Senator Karina Villa advocated for a law to provide social workers with a more equitable avenue for obtaining a license. This is the first law of its kind in the nation, and many states are expected to follow suit.

“In Illinois, we have social work graduates who have earned a master’s degree, completed intense clinical supervision hours and are currently working in the field, yet they are barred from a path forward due to a biased exam,” said Villa (D-West Chicago). “This new law will help social workers who are already out in the field benefiting their communities and those who are looking to enter the profession have an easier time getting licensed.”

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Peters champions temporary worker protections

SPRINGFIELD – Temporary workers will soon have increased safety, transparency and recourse thanks to a new law sponsored by State Senator Robert Peters.

“Temp workers’ contributions to our economy are often overlooked and taken for granted, even though they often deal with the most unsafe work conditions,” said Peters (D-Chicago). “This new law is long overdue. Temporary workers deserve to work in the same safe conditions as permanent workers.”

Read more: Peters champions temporary worker protections