Villanueva measure to safeguard reproductive health care records passes Senate

SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Celina Villanueva championed a measure through the Senate to ensure reproductive health care records are not being improperly disclosed.

“As the war on reproductive rights continues throughout the nation, we must ensure that those who are seeking reproductive health care are protected in every way possible,” said Villanueva (D-Chicago). “As a safe haven state, we have a responsibility to protect individuals’ rights to care and ensure their health care records remain private.”

Last year Villanueva led House Bill 4664 – a law to shield out-of-state patients and in-state providers from legal action originating from other states regarding abortions performed here.  To expand upon that measure and provide further protections, Villanueva led House Bill 5239 this year.

Read more: Villanueva measure to safeguard reproductive health care records passes Senate

Castro measure would make physical therapy available via telehealth

SPRINGFIELD — While physical therapy has traditionally required in-person care and coordination, the rise in availability of telehealth services in recent years offers potential for the field to deliver efficient, low-cost care remotely. Recognizing this potential, State Senator Cristina Castro is leading a measure to give physical therapists in Illinois the option to provide services via telehealth.

“While some people will benefit from fully in-person physical therapy, it may be more convenient for others to utilize telehealth or a mix of in-person and virtual visits,” said Castro (D-Elgin). “This measure is all about flexibility because it allows patients to work with their providers to determine the best course of treatment that works for them.”

Read more: Castro measure would make physical therapy available via telehealth

Toro legislation prohibiting discrimination in the workplace clears Senate

SPRINGFIELD — Legislation prohibiting employer discrimination based on family obligations has passed the Senate and is one step closer to becoming law, thanks to efforts from State Senator Natalie Toro.

“Why should employees be punished for their family responsibilities if they have demonstrated that they do not impact their work performance?” said Toro (D-Chicago). “Working parents and family caregivers deserve to be treated the same as their colleagues without family responsibilities, especially when employers are making hiring decisions. I am glad this measure will protect employees from unfair treatment and empower people with family responsibilities to achieve success in their careers.”

Read more: Toro legislation prohibiting discrimination in the workplace clears Senate

Johnson measure to empower students to learn about climate solutions heads to governor’s desk

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Adriane Johnson championed a measure to ensure students learn about the impacts of climate change in school.

“The integration of environmental literacy is crucial to youth development,” said Johnson (D- Buffalo Grove). “By learning about climate change, students are empowered to take action and make informed decisions.”

House Bill 4895 would task public schools in Illinois with providing learning opportunities on the environmental and ecological impacts of climate change and solutions for addressing the crisis. Schools would be granted the flexibility to decide whether to create a separate class or implement these lessons into existing relevant classes.

Read more: Johnson measure to empower students to learn about climate solutions heads to governor’s desk