Joyce plan to encourage firefighter training passes Senate

SPRINGFIELD – To diminish the volunteer firefighter shortage Illinois is currently facing, State Senator Patrick Joyce advanced a plan out of the Senate Friday to allow for more people to complete firefighter training.

“The number of volunteer firefighters has been declining for almost a decade,” said Joyce (D-Essex). “This opportunity would give people the chance to get proper firefighter training to become an experienced volunteer in their communities.”

Fire departments across the state have faced a shortage of new recruits and volunteer firefighters in recent years. Senate Bill 1611 would combat these shortages to give people the opportunity to undergo firefighter training courses.

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Statewide mental health coordinator for law enforcement passes Senate

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Bill Cunningham passed a bill through the Senate on Friday, which aims to provide mental health support and education for law enforcement officers who are facing post-traumatic stress disorder.

“We are not passing any new mandate on law enforcement,” said Cunningham, a Democrat who represents portions of Chicago and the Southwest Suburbs. “We are creating a supportive resource that officers can utilize for specific traumatic situations and for PTSD."

The Statewide PTSD Mental Health Coordinator will be appointed by the governor, with the advice and consent of the Senate, and shall serve for a term of four years. The coordinator will be responsible for providing resources, information and assistance to law enforcement officers who may be experiencing PTSD symptoms or other mental health issues related to their work.

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Gillespie leads effort to guarantee legal counsel for foster youth

SPRINGFIELD — Youth in the care of the Department of Children and Family Services often have several adults speaking on their behalf regarding what is in their best interest. To ensure youth have a say in their future and guaranteed legal representation, State Senator Ann Gillespie passed legislation out of the Senate on Friday.

“Youth in care are the experts when it comes to what they need; they should have a say in the decisions being made about their lives,” said Gillespie (D-Arlington Heights). “This legislation gives youth in care an attorney who will elevate their voice and advocate for their wishes.”

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Senator Fine fights plastic pollution, requires state agencies to restrict use of single-use plastic foodware

SPRINGFIELD –To ensure state operations are prioritizing environmental sustainability and not contributing to degradation, State Senator Laura Fine is leading an initiative to limit the consumption of single-use plastic foodware by state agencies over the next year.

“We need to be more conscious of how we use and dispose of single-use plastics and the impact they have on our environment,” said Fine (D-Glenview). “Illinois state agencies should be the role model of transitioning to sustainable, environmentally-friendly foodware.”

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