Villivalam: Illinois leads fight against climate change with Energy Transition Act

­SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Ram Villivalam (D-Chicago) released the following statement on the passage of Senate Bill 18, the Energy Transition Act:

“The Energy Transition Act is the strongest clean jobs plan in the nation, and I am proud to have voted in support of this legislation.

“This comprehensive package expands our renewable energy portfolio to make Illinois a leader in the fight against climate change. It sets bold decarbonization goals that prioritize the health of all Illinois residents, including those most affected by environmental injustice, and creates grant programs so working people in the energy sector experience a just transition to a good-paying job in clean energy.

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Feigenholtz law ensures more rights to adults with disabilities

SPRINGFIELD – Adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities will have a less restrictive alternative to guardianship to support their daily living, thanks to a measure sponsored by State Senator Sara Feigenholtz (D-Chicago) that was signed into law Friday.

“Adults with disabilities deserve the opportunity to make decisions in how they live their daily lives when possible,” Feigenholtz said. “This law helps many people with disabilities build confidence and become better self-advocates.”

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Collins’ plan to expunge felony prostitution convictions signed into law

CHICAGO – Felony prostitution charges, which have not existed in Illinois since 2013, will be expunged under a new law signed today, the result of legislation by State Senator Jacqueline Collins (D-Chicago).

“The fact we have stopped charging prostitution as a felony means nothing to those whose records continue to be hurt by these charges,” said Collins (D-Chicago). “I want to thank Gov. Pritzker for signing this legislation and moving us beyond a dynamic that only serves to harm sex workers and perpetuate a dangerous, exploitative environment for them.”

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Northwest Chicagoans could benefit from low-interest home equity loans under new law by Pacione-Zayas

CHICAGO – The Northwest Home Equity Program will have the ability to provide low- or no-interest home assistance loans to homeowners struggling to make their property tax payments under a new law signed today, the result of legislation by State Senator Cristina Pacione-Zayas (D-Chicago).

“We need to use every tool at our disposal to help homeowners who are at risk of default, especially in light of a historically difficult year that has affected everyone’s finances,” Pacione-Zayas said. “With this legislation, homeowners on the Northwest side will get the additional assistance they need to help pay their property taxes.”

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