Hastings’ bipartisan measure to crack down on crime now law

SPRINGFIELD –State Senator Michael E. Hastings’ measure to help police and sheriffs quickly track stolen vehicles is now law.

“This measure helps us evolve by better utilizing the latest technology to track criminal actions,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort). “We already know that there is technology readily available to track carjackers and kidnappers as they travel from Point A to Point B. It is essential that we empower law enforcement with these tools to successfully apprehend these criminals.”

Nationwide, carjackings are on the rise, but without formal coordination between authorities and vehicle manufacturers, law enforcement officers had little to no ability to access real-time tracking information.

Read more: Hastings’ bipartisan measure to crack down on crime now law

Porfirio legislation to streamline military sales tax exemptions process signed into law

SPRINGFIELD – Military service members and the Department of Revenue will see improvements when it comes to requesting and processing sales tax exemptions, thanks to a new law sponsored by State Senator Mike Porfirio.

“There are many sacrifices that our service men and women have made and they deserve any appreciation we can give them,” said Porfirio (D-Lyons Township). “This legislation removes the burden on our service members and provides them with a simpler way to receive this sales tax exemption.”

Read more: Porfirio legislation to streamline military sales tax exemptions process signed into law

Preston’s new law creates more successful reentry pathways for returning residents

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Willie Preston championed a new law that will require the Secretary of State to provide returning residents with an Illinois ID upon receipt of identifying documents the state will assist the individuals in obtaining.

“We are creating pathways for life after incarceration that will put every Illinoisan in a position to thrive,” said Preston (D-Chicago). “Offering formerly incarcerated individuals the support and resources they need to reintegrate back into their communities is necessary to reduce recidivism.”

Read more: Preston’s new law creates more successful reentry pathways for returning residents

Koehler protects Illinoisans from price gouging of generic medication

SPRINGFIELD – Drug manufacturers and distributors will now be unable to spike the costs of generic medication thanks to a law spearheaded by State Senator Dave Koehler.

“Every Illinoisan deserves affordable access to necessary medication,” said Koehler (D-Peoria). “This law prevents companies from robbing residents just for an extra buck.”

House Bill 3957 creates the Illinois Generic Drug Pricing Fairness Act, which prohibits manufacturers and distributors from engaging in price gouging of essential off-patent and generic medication.

“We need to stake a stand for our residents and prohibit companies from these manipulative schemes,” said Koehler. “There should never be a situation when someone has to decide between picking up their medication or groceries for their family.”

House Bill 3957 was signed into law Friday and goes into effect Jan. 1, 2024.