Morrison’s plan to strengthen state’s response to human trafficking clears Senate

SPRINGFIELD — The National Human Trafficking Hotline has identified more than 5,600 trafficking victims in Illinois alone since 2007 — and authorities estimate the true number of victims to be much higher. To improve how the state identifies and supports victims of human trafficking, State Senator Julie Morrison advanced a bipartisan proposal that would strengthen training and streamline services among agencies.

“This legislation is the product of two years of work among the Illinois State Police and state agencies on how the state can close many of the gaps that exist in current processes,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “With these changes, we put ourselves in a better position to identify victims earlier and get them the help they need.”

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Ellman plan to protect state scattering rights passes Senate

SPRINGFIELD – Establishing a safe pathway for Illinois families to scatter their loved one’s ashes, State Senator Laura Ellman advanced legislation that would create rules allowing cremated remains to be scattered in Illinois waterways.

“Illinois families going through major life adjustments after losing a loved one need support as they navigate through emotional and financial challenges,” said Ellman (D-Naperville). “I have heard the concerns of families in my district whose faith requires them to scatter their loved one’s ashes in flowing water, and they are worried about the lack of transparent regulations on scattering rights.”

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Holmes outlines legislation to allow end-of-life options for terminally ill patients

SPRINGFIELD –Assistant Senate Majority Leader Linda Holmes – alongside family members and advocates of terminally ill adults – outlined their support of legislation to provide terminally ill patients with end-of-life options during a subcommittee Wednesday.

“We are working to take a compassionate step forward to honor the fundamental human right to determine one’s own end-of-life journey with autonomy and peace,” said Holmes (D-Aurora). “People deserve the dignity to make their own deeply personal choices – and to do so surrounded by their loved ones while free from unnecessary suffering.”

Holmes’ legislation would allow mentally capable, terminally ill adults with six months or less to live the option to request a prescription for medication that they could choose to take to end their suffering peacefully. Physicians would not administer the medication; patients would need to be able to take the medication themselves. To protect against coercion, the measure includes eligibility requirements and assessments by the attending physician and a consulting physician, who will determine if the patient has the mental capacity to make an informed decision.

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Castro fights to keep cellphones, social media out of the classroom

SPRINGFIELD — Teenagers who spend five or more hours per day on electronic devices are 71% more likely to demonstrate risk factors for suicide — an alarming phenomenon State Senator Cristina Castro is determined to change.

“My legislation takes social media out of the classroom so students can focus on what’s important: learning,” said Castro (D-Elgin). “This measure sets a standard to limit cellphone use during class time but prioritizes flexibility, letting schools take the lead in deciding how it should be implemented in their local community.”

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