Holmes plan would empower advocates to stand up for abused animals in court

SPRINGFIELD – With a long history of successful animal protection legislation in the Illinois Senate, Assistant Majority Leader Linda Holmes (D-Aurora) has now presented a measure to add more safeguards in the courts for abused animals.

The Senate Judiciary Committee approved Senate Bill 153 on Tuesday, which would give trial courts discretion in prosecutions for cruelty to companion animals to appoint a volunteer lawyer or supervised law student to assist the court as a special advocate.

“Abuse cases can result in dismissed charges or reduced sentences for animal owners accused of cruelty, often due to prosecutors with good intentions but not enough resources for research and information to make a strong case,” Holmes said. “These advocates can assist the courts in working toward consistent reinforcement of Illinois’ mandate to properly protect companion animals.”

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Bennett partners with Robinson Chiropractic to host healthy food drive benefiting The Dwelling Place

DANVILLE – State Senator Scott Bennett (D-Champaign) and Robinson Chiropractic are teaming up to host a healthy food drive in an effort to replenish the stock at The Dwelling Place for homeless and at-risk individuals in Vermilion County.

“The need for food has increased dramatically due to the economic effects of COVID-19, and that demand has especially impacted places like The Dwelling Place,” Bennett said. “Your donations can make a difference for folks in need in our community.”

According to The Dwelling Place, over 16,000 Vermilion County residents live in poverty and are at risk of homelessness, and over 500 children of school age are identified as homeless. Individuals and families who seek assistance for food are often in search of healthier options.

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Black Caucus Celebrates the Signing of Equity-Driven Education and Workforce Development Law

CHICAGO — Members of the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus (ILBC) celebrated the signing of a new law to help combat racial inequities in education, provide better pathways to success for students and strengthen the state’s workforce.

“For too long, Black students have been left behind and denied the same path to success that others have been able to experience,” ILBC Joint Caucus Chair state Rep. Sonya Harper, D-Chicago, said. “With a focus on combatting racial inequity and providing equal opportunities for students to succeed, we can build a stronger Illinois for all families.”

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Feigenholtz measure would help struggling hospitality industry

SPRINGFIELD – A hospitality package sponsored by Senator Sara Feigenholtz that seeks to provide immediate relief and help manage cash flow for struggling bars and restaurants passed out of the Senate Tourism and Hospitality committee.

“Every day, another restaurant and bar closes its doors,” Feigenholtz said. “Any lever we can pull to keep cash flowing and doors open for our independent restaurants and bars must be a priority. I am eager to see this legislation make its way through the Senate so we can provide immediate relief to our struggling hospitality industry.”

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