Edly-Allen measure to expand breast cancer care

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Mary Edly-Allen passed an initiative through the Senate Insurance Committee to fill gaps in current breast cancer screening coverage and ensure that all Illinoisans are able to receive screening that accurately detects cancer.

“Standard mammograms aren’t always effective on patients with dense breasts. Unfortunately, insurance companies may deny having additional tests that are needed to detect cancer. This can lead to life-threatening situations for those who cannot afford additional tests,” said Edly-Allen (D-Libertyville). “We must ensure that we do not put profit over people’s health and require these insurance plans to cover all medically necessary tests, and not just the bare minimum.”

House Bill 4180 would require any insurance plan in the state, including Medicaid, to cover molecular breast imaging (MBI) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)  if a mammogram demonstrates heterogeneous or dense breast tissue or when determined medically necessary.

Read more: Edly-Allen measure to expand breast cancer care

Senators Villivalam and Johnson rally to support equality in Illinois

SPRINGFIELD – Senate Democrats joined together with advocates and community leaders at the Capitol Wednesday to support equality throughout Illinois.

“We cannot let down our youth. We need to stand with them and hear them – especially when they are speaking so loudly,” said State Senator Ram Villivalam (D-Chicago).

In order to bolster support for continued efforts to achieve inclusivity and accessibility, State Senator Ram Villivalam is leading legislation that would address funding for health, safety and sexual health education in all public elementary and high schools.

In 2021, Villivalam led a law to bring forth new learning standards for age-appropriate, medically- accurate, and inclusive personal health, safety, and sexual education in public schools that opt in, whereas this legislation was championed by Senator Villivalam.

This year he is leading Senate Bill 3384 to appropriate $20 million for grants to local school district and community organizations to implement this education.

Read more: Senators Villivalam and Johnson rally to support equality in Illinois

Morrison to protect wildlife from unnecessary disturbances

SPRINGFIELD – Private drones flown over public parks, sports games and sensitive wildlife has created the need for regulation. State Senator Julie Morrison introduced a measure to give local governments the authority to adopt reasonable rules for the airspace over their public park property.

“I am proud to represent a district with an abundance of parks and wildlife,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “This legislation, brought to me by the Cook County Forest Preserve and the Illinois Association of Park Districts, will secure the sanctity and longevity of beautiful outdoor spaces.”

Read more: Morrison to protect wildlife from unnecessary disturbances

Senate Democrats gather at Capitol to mark Latino Unity Day

SPRINGFIELD – Members of the Illinois Legislative Latino Caucus were joined by advocates, Latino professionals, community groups and nonprofit organizations to celebrate the annual Latino Unity Day at the State Capitol Wednesday.

“Today, not only do we foster inclusivity, promote social justice, and strengthen our place in society but we also celebrate our rich diversity, history, and achievements,” said State Senator Celina Villanueva (D- Chicago). “With Latino Unity Day, we are able to further amplify our visibility, voices, and influence in shaping policies, programs, and initiatives that address our needs and priorities.”

The two-day event featured Latino leaders engaging in forums covering topics crucial to the community, ranging from education to health care and financial literacy. With this year’s theme of “Driving Progress for Illinois,” the event spotlighted ongoing efforts to promote equity and create a better Illinois for all residents.

Read more: Senate Democrats gather at Capitol to mark Latino Unity Day