Ellman expands fentanyl education efforts

SPRINGFIELD – High school students could soon be required to learn about the dangers of fentanyl thanks to a measure sponsored by State Senator Laura Ellman.

“Increasing awareness through education is an effective way to combat the ongoing opioid epidemic,” said Ellman (D-Naperville). “Educating high school students, hopefully before they are exposed to fentanyl, could mean all the difference between a dependency on addictive opioids and connection to a non-addictive medication.”

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 such as hydrocodone or oxycodone, are involved in 70% of fatal drug overdoses.

Read more: Ellman expands fentanyl education efforts

New tax credits announced for blue collar workers in Illinois

SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity yesterday announced the launch of the Blue Collar Jobs Act Tax Credit application for eligible companies. BCJA is a bipartisan legislative package designed to promote economic expansion and growth in Illinois by incentivizing construction projects. The legislation makes $20 million in tax credits available per year for eligible companies.

“Finally, we’ve got a tax credit that rewards blue collar workers rather than the guys in the corner office,” said State Senator Mike Halpin (D-Rock Island). “We want more business here in Illinois and we have the workforce to build them. I hope to see these businesses come to Illinois to help expand the economy, and to see our workers share in the incentives the state has to offer.”

Read more: New tax credits announced for blue collar workers in Illinois

Villivalam passes legislation to provide for safer, more affordable transit

SPRINGFIELD – To make public transit safer, stronger and more affordable, State Senator Ram Villivalam led a comprehensive public transit plan through the Senate.

“Public transportation is used by hundreds of thousands of Illinois residents every day,” said Villivalam (D-Chicago). “We are building a transit plan that includes all communities and creates a more equitable future for residents who rely on our transportation system.”

Read more: Villivalam passes legislation to provide for safer, more affordable transit

Senate South Suburban Corridor Members celebrate new airport, bringing jobs and revenue to the area

SPRINGFIELD – The South Suburban Airport may soon be reality, thanks to the Senate members of the South Suburbs.

“This is a touchdown for communities across the South Suburbs,” said State Senator Napoleon Harris (D-Harvey). “This airport will serve as an economic engine for our communities and provide local businesses with access to global markets for generations to come.”

For the last 40 years, lawmakers have attempted to secure a south suburban airport in the Monee community. The measure – spearheaded by Harris – passed on Wednesday, would require the state to establish the process to find partners in the construction of a new south suburban airport.

Read more: Senate South Suburban Corridor Members celebrate new airport, bringing jobs and revenue to the area