Stadelman applauds continued investment in local public transportation

ROCKFORD – State Senator Steve Stadelman joined the Illinois Department of Transportation in highlighting the ongoing construction of the Rockford Mass Transit District expansion project. RMTD has been awarded a total of $39.4 million through the Rebuild Illinois capital plan for this project.

“Upgrading transit systems is essential if we want reliable and efficient services for riders. I’m thrilled to see the results of the expansion project that will help Rockford’s local economy and keep us moving forward,” said Stadelman (D-Rockford). “The continued investments in the Rockford Mass Transit District show we are dedicated to improving transportation needs all over the state.”

The project will use $32.6 million to renovate RMTD’s current vehicle storage and maintenance facility to expand storage space, fix vehicle needs and integrate electric vehicle charging infrastructure. An additional $6.8 million will fund new alternative fuel buses and vehicles.

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Fine advances safety measure to remove toxic metals in baby food

SPRINGFIELD – Recent studies and research have found concerning levels of heavy metals like arsenic, cadmium, lead and mercury in baby foods. Even in small quantities, these metals are known to put babies at risk of developmental delays. A measure, sponsored by State Senator Laura Fine, to inform families about baby foods containing toxic heavy metals passed the Senate Public Health Committee on Tuesday.

“Unfortunately, not many parents are aware about the potential exposure to toxic heavy metals in baby food, which can lead to health issues for a growing child,” said Fine (D-Glenview). “This measure is designed to provide toxin-free food that has been thoroughly tested, giving parents the peace of mind that they are giving their child the best possible nutrients.”

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Villanueva recognizes March 25 as Equal Pay Day

SPRINGFIELD — Despite the passage of the Equal Pay Act of 1963, women across the country still do not earn wages equal to those of their male counterparts —leading State Senator Celina Villanueva to name March 25, 2025 Equal Pay Day in Illinois.

"Equal pay is not just a women's issue—it is an economic issue that affects families, communities, and the overall health of our economy," said Villanueva (D-Chicago). "We must continue to push for policies that close the wage gap and ensure that every worker in Illinois is fairly compensated for their work."

Senate Resolution 158 highlights the pay disparities faced by women and other marginalized groups. The average woman must work until March 25 to earn what the average man earned the previous year.

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Castro proposal tackling single-use plastic pollution passes committee

SPRINGFIELD — Over 20 million pounds of plastic enter the Great Lakes and Chicago-area waterways annually, the majority being single-use plastics with an average use of just a few short minutes. Once in the water, plastic breaks down into smaller pieces known as microplastics — toxic particles that make their way into drinking water, harm animal life and contribute to environmental degradation.

To tackle excessive plastic pollution and safeguard Illinois’ natural resources, State Senator Cristina Castro is working with consumers, businesses and environmental experts to pass legislation to cut down on single-use plastic bags.

“Illinois can’t be a true, nationwide climate leader if we leave our natural resources behind without addressing the hazards posed by plastic pollution,” said Castro (D-Elgin). “We as legislators have a responsibility to strive toward sustainability and protect our fragile ecosystems for future generations.”

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