Murphy measure to address discrimination in schools passes committee

SPRINGFIELD – To address racial discrimination in schools, State Senator Laura Murphy is leading a measure that would increase protections for students.

“Our schools have a duty to care for their students, and more importantly make students feel safe,” said Murphy (D-Des Plaines). “No child should have to face discrimination based on their race, the color of their skin, or their national origin.”

Under the measure, each school district would be required to create, implement, and maintain at least one written policy that prohibits discrimination and harassment against students based on race, color, or national origin. Additionally, the policy would include language prohibiting retaliation against students for submitting a complaint.

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Lightford advocates for full-day kindergarten

SPRINGFIELD – Senate Majority Leader Kimberly A. Lightford is leading a measure to require all schools in the state to provide an option of full-day kindergarten.

“Kindergarten is pivotal for children’s learning journey,” said Lightford (D-Maywood). “Full-day kindergarten classes across the state will ensure equal access to early learning opportunities for all our families.”

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Johnson leads measure to provide youth in care timely treatment

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Adriane Johnson is leading a measure to improve access to residential treatment for youth in the care of the Department of Children and Family Services.

“It’s vital that we keep youth in care in need of residential treatment in Illinois,” said Johnson (D-Buffalo Grove). “We must work to avoid out-of-state transfers or placements that can be disruptive to those with complex behavioral and mental health medical needs long term.”

Johnson’s measure would require the Department of Children and Family Services to develop a strategic plan to improve timely access to in-state residential treatment, evidence-based alternatives to treatment, and specialized foster care for youth in care with significant behavioral health needs.

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Murphy measure to protect libraries passes Senate

SPRINGFIELD – To protect people’s freedom to read, State Senator Laura Murphy passed legislation to prevent the banning of books.

“Our nation’s libraries have been under attack for too long—they are bastions of knowledge and proliferate the spread of ideas,” said Murphy (D-Des Plaines). “We have a duty as lawmakers to protect the rights of our people—including the First Amendment right to freedom of speech and expression.”

Under this measure, a library or library system must adopt the American Library Association’s Library Bill of Rights or develop a written statement prohibiting the practice of banning books or materials in order to be eligible for state grants.

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