Hastings school safety measure “Alyssa’s Law” signed into law

SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Michael E. Hastings is building on previous school safety legislation by passing a law that will provide schools with modern tools to quickly alert first responders in the event of a crisis.

“Illinois must continue to be proactive when it comes to the safety of our children,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort). “I am happy to see my colleagues on both sides of the aisle come together to protect our children when we drop them off at school for the day.”

House Bill 5107 will require school districts and private schools to consider the use of a mobile panic alert system in the development of their school emergency and crisis response plans by the beginning of the 2028-2029 school year.

Read more: Hastings school safety measure “Alyssa’s Law” signed into law

Collins law strengthens protections against sexual misconduct in schools

SPRINGFIELD – To strengthen protections for students and help schools identify concerning behavior before it escalates, State Senator Lakesia Collins’ new law improves reporting requirements, reinforces professional boundaries between educators and students and increases transparency regarding school misconduct policies.

“We have to recognize and understand the warning signs before a child is harmed,” said Collins (D-Chicago). “With this law, schools will establish clear boundaries and professional standards between all students and staff, provide training and give educators the ability to identify and report troubling behavior.”

Read more: Collins law strengthens protections against sexual misconduct in schools

Edly-Allen law to strengthen juvenile justice accountability and youth support

SPRINGFIELD – According to the Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice, Illinois currently has approximately 200 youth in secure custody, with most released within six to eight months, highlighting the importance of maintaining continuity in oversight and care during and after their time in the system. To address this, State Senator Mary Edly-Allen advanced a new law to improve transparency and ensure better support for youth involved in the juvenile justice system.

“Every young person in our justice system deserves accountability, support and a clear path forward,” said Edly-Allen (D-Grayslake). “This law ensures courts remain informed while also making sure youth are supported through every step of their transition back into the community.”

Read more: Edly-Allen law to strengthen juvenile justice accountability and youth support

Belt measure removing employment barriers for people with disabilities signed into law

SPRINGFIELD– State Senator Christopher Belt’s measure to reduce unfair barriers to employment for people living with disabilities was signed into law.

“Everyone in our state deserves the opportunity to earn a living and support their family,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “Too many people are being shut out of good jobs because of requirements that have nothing to do with the work, and this measure will help change that.”

The legislation will prohibit employers and employment agencies from requiring applicants to have a valid driver’s license in job postings unless driving is an essential function of the position and is considered a business necessity.

Read more: Belt measure removing employment barriers for people with disabilities signed into law