Social workers to see expanded student loan relief under new Gillespie law

ARLINGTON HEIGHTS – A measure to assist social workers with paying off their degrees, introduced by State Senator Ann Gillespie, was signed into law on Friday.

“Incentivizing students of social work to start their careers in Illinois will help our local governments recruit the qualified professionals they need, while mitigating the student debt crisis,” said Gillespie (D-Arlington Heights).

Senate Bill 3761 expands the School Social Work Shortage Loan Repayment Program to include social workers employed by an Illinois municipality. Currently, the program offers up to $6,500 in student loan assistance to borrowers who have been employed at a school for at least one year.

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Hastings’ law to expand access to utility bill relief goes into effect

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Michael E. Hastings’ law to expand access to utility bill assistance programs goes into effect today.

“This law will give those struggling a chance to get back on their feet,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort). “As we prepare for extreme summer weather, helping residents stay safe in their homes has never been more important.”

Under Senate Bill 265, families under 60% of the Illinois median income level are now eligible for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) and Percentage of Income Payment Plan (PIPP). Additionally the legislation establishes a priority application period for households with children under age 6 and extends LIHEAP and PIPP availability to all eligible low-income residents.

Read more: Hastings’ law to expand access to utility bill relief goes into effect

Simmons Led Mental Health Curriculum Becomes Law

CHICAGO- Youth in Illinois will now begin to receive specialized education on mental health resources after a measure championed by State Senator Mike Simmons (D-Chicago) becomes law.

“This measure addresses a critical gap in the support systems that we need to offer our youth to be able to remain emotionally well,” Simmons said. “Our youth have been so resilient during these past few years, but many of the broader issues amplified by the COVID-19 pandemic have put a severe strain on the mental health of our young people. It’s imperative that we prioritize the mental health and well-being of our young people and center the experiences they are voicing and actually living through.”

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Loughran Cappel measure addressing water disruptions passes Senate

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel championed a new law requiring public water supply operators to notify all health care facilities served by the public water supply of a water disruption event.

“The loss of clean water can create a dangerous environment for patients at hospitals and other health care facilities,” said Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood). “Since Legionnaire’s disease can thrive in water pipes, it’s vital that we take preventative measures so the illness isn’t contracted and spread in the case of a water disruption event.”

Read more: Loughran Cappel measure addressing water disruptions passes Senate