Preston legislation to expand access to colonoscopies signed by governor

SPRINGFIELD – To reduce barriers for Illinoisans trying to access a colonoscopy, State Senator Willie Preston championed a new law requiring all health insurance plans to cover the cost of the procedure when deemed medically necessary.

“Talking openly about colonoscopies can raise awareness and motivate more individuals to get screened,” said Preston (D-Chicago). “With this law, we can further promote early detection and prevention efforts by broadening coverage for the procedure.”

According to data reported from the National Cancer Institute in 2023, colon cancer was responsible for 7.8% of all new cancer cases in the United States and 8.6% of all cancer deaths. The Institute also projected that about 4.1% of the population will be diagnosed with colon cancer at some point during their lifetime based on data collected from 2017 to 2019.

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Villanueva law to protect driving privileges

SPRINGFIELD – A new law, championed by State Senator Celina Villanueva, will allow driver’s license holders more notice for court appearances prior to suspension.

“Drivers are not receiving notice of court dates and unknowingly having their driving privileges revoked. This is a major issue that leads to severe consequences,” said Villanueva (D-Chicago). “This law will allow drivers the curtesy of electronic notice of court dates to reduce the possibility of suspension or further legal issues.”

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Murphy: Emerging adults deserve a chance at a fresh start

SPRINGFIELD – Young adults in Illinois Department of Corrections custody could see new educational opportunities thanks to a new law led by State Senator Laura Murphy.

“Incarcerating a young adult creates a gap in their education that can lead to a loss of future opportunities,” said Murphy (D-Des Plaines). “We want to give emerging adults the chance at a fresh start when they leave custody and equip them with the tools they need to become productive, responsible members of their communities.”

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New local government grant program to reduce carbon footprint thanks to Ventura

SPRINGFIELD – Under a new law led by State Senator Rachel Ventura, a new grant program for local governments to help mitigate the impact of climate change and tackle growing emission rates from automobiles and trucks will be created.

“Every level of government needs to address the climate crisis and do their part to help our planet. The cost for an abundance of trees and native grasses can add up quickly, but this program will allow local governments that may not normally be able to afford these projects to take advantage of funding to do so,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “By creating this opportunity and encouraging local governments to plant native trees and grasses, which are proven to help mitigate climate change through carbon capture, we can aid the process of healing our planet for future generations significantly.”

Read more: New local government grant program to reduce carbon footprint thanks to Ventura