Johnson, Simmons advocate for fossil fuel divestment

SPRINGFIELD – To advance environmental standards and promote greener energy, State Senator Adriane Johnson joined colleagues Wednesday to support the Fossil Fuel Divestment Act, which would prohibit Illinois’ major retirement systems from making new investments in fossil fuel companies.

“By aligning our investments with the goals of the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act, Illinois is making a clear commitment to protecting our workers, communities and environment from the growing climate crisis,” said Johnson (D-Buffalo Grove). “The Fossil Fuel Divestment Act reflects our responsibility to both retirees and future generations.”

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Legislators, advocates call for retainage reform to support Illinois contractors and workers

SPRINGFIELD — Today, legislators and advocates gathered to announce the filing of Senate Bill 74 and House Bill 1224, landmark legislation to reform Illinois’ retainage policies.

“This legislation is about fairness and modernizing our laws to support Illinois contractors,” said State Senator Willie Preston (D-Chicago), chief sponsor of Senate Bill 74. “Our small businesses and workforce deserve payment practices that reflect the realities of today’s economy.”

The bills aim to end the practice of withholding payments from contractors across the board and instead adopt federal standards that impose retainage only when specific project issues arise. The bills would only apply to state agencies and public universities, not local governments or private developments.

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Illinois Senate Progressive Caucus: We will not stand for hate, bigotry or racism

CHICAGO – Members of the executive leadership of the Illinois Senate Progressive Caucus are standing together to denounce hateful action taken by the new federal administration.

"Attacks on diversity, equity and inclusion are direct assaults on the very communities that form the backbone of our state," said Progressive Caucus Co-Chair Adriane Johnson (D-Buffalo Grove). "History has taught us a painful lesson: when they target one group, they threaten us all. What will begin with migrants will extend to the Black community, to women, and to countless others who have built the foundation of Illinois.”

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Sims and Villanueva announce applications open for small business grant program

CHICAGO – Illinois Senate Democrats recently joined the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity to announce $10 million in funding for the Office of Economic Equity and Empowerment Small Business Capital and Infrastructure Grant Program. This initiative aims to help small businesses achieve sustainable growth, improve efficiency, and create and retain jobs through capital improvements.

"Programs like the OE3 grant are critical because they prioritize equity and uplift businesses that have been left behind for far too long,” said State Senator Celina Villanueva (D-Chicago). “By providing these resources, we’re not just supporting businesses — we’re fostering economic empowerment and generational growth."

Read more: Sims and Villanueva announce applications open for small business grant program