Community-designed plan to name designated cultural districts signed into law

CHICAGO – A plan introduced by State Senator Cristina Pacione-Zayas (D-Chicago) to allow for the designation of cultural districts in Illinois was signed into law today in an effort to help affirm the identity of communities in Illinois and preserve their distinct legacies.

“These designations are a way for our communities to proudly reflect the identity, contributions and history of the people who have helped build them,” Pacione-Zayas said. “I thank the governor for signing this into law and giving Illinois communities the chance to pursue community-driven economic opportunity initiatives that ensure our neighborhoods preserve their unique cultures and continue to build legacies.”

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Bennett celebrates signing of legislation to reduce student loan epidemic

CHAMPAIGN – New accountability standards for private loan companies will soon be in place across the state, helping students make more informed choices about the loans they take out to pay for college, thanks to a measure led by Senate Higher Education Chair Scott Bennett (D-Champaign).

“This new law requires private loan companies to help students better understand the type and amount of grants and loans they qualify for,” Bennett said. “This law also gives students the necessary resources to see how college costs could impact their loan payments down the road and ensure they understand what their student borrowing really means.”

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Johnson visits local popcorn shop for National Black Business Month, urges more business owners to sign up for a tour

WAUKEGAN – To get to know local entrepreneurs and foster an inclusive and diverse local business community, State Senator Adriane Johnson (D-Buffalo Grove) paid a visit to Gordon’s Gourmet Popcorn Shop in Waukegan in celebration of National Black Business Month.

“Small businesses across the country suffered during the pandemic, but the recent successful opening of Gordon’s Gourmet Popcorn Shop is a testament to the resilience of the Waukegan community,” Johnson said. “It was a pleasure to get to know Greg and Hannah, and I look forward to visiting the shop for years to come.”

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New law provides right to choose repair parts for vehicle owners

SPRINGFIELD – A new law sponsored by State Senator John Connor (D-Lockport) and State Representative Dagmara Avelar (D-Bolingbrook), signed Friday, will give vehicle owners the right to choose less expensive parts for car repairs.

“I was proud to work with Representative Avelar on this issue,” Connor said. “This law will save Illinois consumers money when they have to repair or purchase parts for their cars.”

Currently, automobile manufacturers are able to require affiliated independent dealerships to only offer secondary products and warranties directly from the manufacturer. These requirements often drive up the cost of warranties, repairs and parts, placing excessive financial burdens on consumers and creating greater profit for manufacturers. Under the new law, dealerships will be able to offer parts made by other companies.

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