SPRINGFIELD – Leading efforts to promote responsible gun ownership and enhance public safety in Illinois, State Senator Laura Ellman outlined legislation at a press conference on Tuesday, joined by One Aim Illinois Advocacy, survivors of gun violence, and advocates encouraging safe gun storage.
“Unsecured firearms in homes pose serious risks, including unintentional shootings and suicides,” said Ellman (D-Naperville). “Illinois has seen climbing numbers of firearm-related tragedies involving youth accessing unsecure guns, and our state has a clear need to prioritize preventive efforts.”
Read more: Ellman joins advocates at rally for safe firearm storage
SPRINGFIELD –State Senator Karina Villa passed a measure through the Senate to address the mental health concerns of defendants who have been determined to be unfit for trial languishing in county jails.
“Our justice system is not equipped to care for every individual deemed unfit for trail in need of mental health treatment, resulting in worse mental health outcomes for these individuals,” said Villa (D-West Chicago). “This not only inhibits a person’s right to due process and a fair trial, but further increases the chances of an individual remaining in the system.”
Read more: Villa pushes measure ensuring best mental health practices in criminal justice system
SPRINGFIELD ─ To provide families and legal guardians with information about services their child might need, State Senator Ram Villivalam advanced legislation aimed at increasing opportunities to inform parents about the Early Intervention program.
“Early intervention is life-changing for many families, as these programs provide critical services and therapies as children develop,” said Villivalam (D-Chicago). “But, these services can only benefit those they are able to reach, which means uplifting the program and expanding its outreach to those who need it is imperative.”
Read more: Villivalam measure to increase access to the Early Intervention program
SPRINGFIELD — As their community faces exponentially rising costs of living and gentrification, State Senator Graciela Guzmán and State Representative Will Guzzardi have developed legislation to collect data on the lack of more affordable housing options, inspiring agencies and organizations to invest in developing more affordable housing.
“Illinois has developed several programs to prevent homelessness and support the most vulnerable in our communities, but there is a gap in support for people who make slightly more, but still struggle to afford to live in their neighborhoods,” said Guzmán (D-Chicago). “Our initiative will demonstrate how great the need for more affordable housing is, taking the first step for us to address this issue and get working folks in reasonably priced living situations.”
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