Murphy seeks to expand property tax relief programs for older Illinoisans

SPRINGFIELD – More Illinoisans could qualify for two state property tax relief programs under legislation from State Senator Laura Murphy (D-Des Plaines) to raise the maximum income limitations for the Senior Citizens Real Estate Tax Deferral and the Senior Citizens Assessment Freeze Homestead Exemption.

“As many households recover from the devastating economic impacts of the pandemic, it’s critical that we offer a hand however we can,” Murphy said. “These programs already provide relief to older residents across the state—it’s time to bump up the income thresholds and allow more people to benefit.”

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President Harmon statement on body cam footage of Adam Toledo’s death

SPRINGFIELD – Senate President Don Harmon (D-Oak Park) issued the following statement after Chicago police released body camera footage of police fatally shooting 13-year-old Adam Toledo:

“Everything about Adam’s death is horrifying. As a parent, I can’t imagine having to watch a video like this. This has to stop.”

Crowe advances plan to require public notice for power plant demolition

SPRINGFIELD – Citing local safety concerns from the Wood River community following an unexpected power plant demolition, State Senator Rachelle Crowe (D-Glen Carbon) has advanced an initiative requiring property owners to notify communities of demolition plans across the state. 

“It’s concerning to hear blasts within your community without a warning,” Crowe said. “To prevent residents from being caught off guard and aware of potential health concerns, this measure seeks to require plans for power plant demolitions to be made public.”

Earlier this year, residents of the Metro East community were alarmed when explosions were heard from the decommissioned Wood River Power Station without warning.

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Ellman advances legislation to reduce use of PFAS found in firefighting foam

SPRINGFIELD – A measure introduced by State Senator Laura Ellman (D-Naperville) that would reduce PFAS chemicals used in firefighting foam passed committee on Thursday.

“Evidence shows that exposure to PFAS found in firefighting foam can lead to numerous health issues, including cancer and kidney problems,” Ellman said. “We need to act now if we want to reduce the risk to the public, including our firefighters.”

Per - and polyfluoradlkyl substances, commonly called PFAS, are a large group of toxic chemicals that have the ability to repel oil and water, reduce friction, and put out fires. For these reasons, they are especially prevalent in firefighting foam.

Read more: Ellman advances legislation to reduce use of PFAS found in firefighting foam