Welcome to the Illinois Senate Democratic Caucus

Fine declares Nov. 12 Genetic Counselor Appreciation Day

SPRINGFIELD – Recognizing the essential role genetic counselors play in modern health care, State Senator Laura Fine has advanced a resolution designating Nov. 12, 2026 as Genetic Counselor Appreciation Day in Illinois.

“Genetic counselors help families understand their health risks and make informed decisions,” said Fine (D-Glenview). “Their expertise, compassion and guidance are invaluable to patients navigating complex medical information.”

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Morrison works to strengthen plastic pollution prevention efforts

DEERFIELD — State Senator Julie Morrison advanced a measure through the Senate to strengthen pollution prevention requirements against plastic pellet runoff and secure clean and healthy waterways for Illinois.

“Our waterways are an important and vital part of our ecosystem – but they cannot thrive with industrial plastic runoff harming aquatic life, water quality and beach health across the Great Lakes,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “It’s time we provide the regulations needed to secure a thriving environment, free from pollution, for neighbors to enjoy for years to come.”

Read more: Morrison works to strengthen plastic pollution prevention efforts

Castro advances legislation for local oversight of charter schools

SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Cristina Castro advanced a plan to establish a pilot program for local school charter authorization.

“Accountability should be at the forefront when making decisions about students’ education,” said Castro (D-Elgin). “Having educational decision makers with their ears to the ground will allow them to better advocate for students’ needs.”

The vast majority of charter schools in Illinois are locally authorized – meaning they apply directly for authorization with their local school board. State-authorized charter schools apply for authorization through the Illinois State Board of Education rather than their local school board. Because current law does not allow school board oversight of state-authorized charter schools, Castro’s legislation aims to create a pilot program to provide this mechanism for two suburban state-authorized charter schools.

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Johnson’s measure to improve educational opportunities for incarcerated individuals with disabilities passes

SPRINGFIELD – To remove barriers to education, employment and training for incarcerated individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, State Senator Adriane Johnson has advanced House Bill 1810.

“People with disabilities who are incarcerated deserve the same opportunity to learn valuable skills and prepare for the future as anyone else,” said Johnson (D-Buffalo Grove).  “Expanding access to education and employment programs promotes dignity, rehabilitation and long-term public safety.”

House Bill 1810 would require reasonable accommodation for incarcerated individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities, including waiving standardized testing requirements for entry into educational, vocational and work programs. Participation in these programs through a waiver would also qualify individuals for earned sentence credit, helping reduce recidivism and support reintegration.

Read more: Johnson’s measure to improve educational opportunities for incarcerated individuals with...