Villa measure safeguarding reproductive care advances

SPRINGFIELD – Building upon Illinois’ shield laws that protect access to reproductive care, State Senator Karina Villa advanced a measure that would secure the licenses of health care providers and ensure access to abortion medications.

“The current federal administration presents a national threat to reproductive health care access,” said Villa (D-West Chicago). “As we continue to see other states attempting to restrict care and impose their laws on people in Illinois, it is instrumental that we push back and fortify our laws to keep individuals and providers safe.”

House Bill 3637 would prohibit the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation and health care institutions from taking disciplinary or non-disciplinary action against a provider’s authorization to provide medical care under their scope of practice as long as the care is lawful in Illinois. The measure would apply regardless of whether a patient is an Illinois resident or not.

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Porfirio works to shield students, teachers from artificial intelligence instructors

SPRINGFIELD — According to a recent study, 25% of teachers use AI tools in the classroom. A bill sponsored by State Senator Mike Porfirio would provide assurance that students are learning from teachers, not AI.

“AI is a tool, not a teacher,” said Porfirio (D-Lyons Township). “Illinois must stay proactive when it comes to cutting-edge technology. This measure would protect the jobs of our teachers, and secure a legitimate education for our students.”

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Guzmán plan to expand SNAP eligibility for college students passes Senate

SPRINGFIELD — College students experiencing hunger may soon have relief, thanks to an initiative led by State Senator Graciela Guzmán to expand eligibility for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits in Illinois.

“Students facing food insecurity may not be able to perform as well as their peers academically, restricting them from the same achievements and career opportunities they could reach if they had access to basic needs,” said Guzmán (D-Chicago). “Senate Bill 1298 would ensure no student goes hungry, helping all students achieve more academically and for their future.” 

Read more: Guzmán plan to expand SNAP eligibility for college students passes Senate

Collins joins SEIU advocates in Springfield

SPRINGFIELD – Hundreds of members from the Service Employees International Union joined State Senator Lakesia Collins at the Capitol on Wednesday to speak about the challenges faced by home health care workers.

“Home care workers give their life to taking care of our communities and deserve to know Illinois has their back,” said Collins (D-Chicago). “As a former home health care worker, I know the struggle and challenges they face, and as a legislator, I am fighting for their right to be fairly paid and protected.”

Collins, a fierce advocate for SEIU and health care workers across Illinois, is proud to join advocates to support Senate Bill 120, which would increase the rate for in-home services under the Community Care Program to $32.75 to support a minimum wage of $20 an hour for direct service workers.

Read more: Collins joins SEIU advocates in Springfield