Joyce-backed measure to promote environmental conservation signed into law

SPRINGFIELD – A comprehensive plan backed by State Senator Patrick Joyce that aims to increase renewable energy procurement and promote environmental conservation was signed into law last Friday.

“By using our existing hydropower infrastructure, we are minimizing the need for additional construction and associated costs,” said Joyce (D-Essex). “Right here in the 40^th District, we have two major hydropower dams that will benefit greatly from this new law.”

The new law aims to support hydropower dams across the state, especially the Kankakee Hydropower Dam and the Wilmington Dam located in Joyce’s district. The law will require the Illinois Power Agency to procure a percentage of its renewable energy credits from hydropower dams. This will help increase the use of this renewable energy source, while also promoting environmental conservation by using dams that already exist.

“The state’s energy goals can be achieved through this measure, while discouraging the construction of new dams by taking away incentives for these projects,” said Joyce. “There’s no need for new dams, when we already have the available resources. This highlights the importance of using our current resources wisely.”

Senate Bill 1474 was signed and takes effect Jan. 1, 2024.

Ventura plan to support hydropower signed into law

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Rachel Ventura spearheaded a new law that will incentivize the use of renewable hydropower electricity across the state.

“Lifting the limits on these essential hydropower plants will increase jobs, support the green energy economy and make Illinois self-sustainable,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “This will clearly address the ongoing energy problem across the state with real solutions and move Illinois closer to reaching our renewable energy goals.”

Illinois is currently ranked 46^th in the nation when it comes to hydropower. With Senate Bill 1474 becoming law, Ventura hopes to advance Illinois’ renewable energy sector.

Read more: Ventura plan to support hydropower signed into law

Illinois targets SNAP benefit fraud, thanks to Senator Hunter

SPRINGFIELD — Under a new law championed by State Senator Mattie Hunter, the Illinois Department of Human Services will collect data on the frequency of stolen SNAP benefits. This comes in response to widespread reports of identity fraud leaving Illinois residents without needed funds to purchase groceries and other necessities.

"SNAP benefits are a lifeline for many Illinois families, and it's important that we do everything we can to ensure these benefits reach those who need them most," said Hunter (D-Chicago). "This new law will help us do that by shining a light on the scope of the problem and helping us develop more effective solutions."

Read more: Illinois targets SNAP benefit fraud, thanks to Senator Hunter

Fentanyl education expanded in high schools thanks to Senator Ellman

SPRINGFIELD – Beginning with the 2024-2025 school year, high school students will be required to learn about the dangers of fentanyl thanks to a new law supported by State Senator Laura Ellman.

“In order to combat the ongoing opioid epidemic on all fronts we need to educate our most vulnerable populations, which includes young people,” said Ellman (D-Naperville). “The age of fentanyl exposure is younger than we think. Educating high school students on the dangers of fentanyl in their health classes is the next step in ending the opioid epidemic.”

According to the Illinois Department of Public Health, a lethal dose of fentanyl is smaller than a drop of water. Opioids, including fentanyl, heroin, and other drugs are involved in 70% of fatal drug overdoses.

Read more: Fentanyl education expanded in high schools thanks to Senator Ellman