Senators Villivalam, Villanueva and Preston rally to save after-school programs

SPRINGFIELD — Senate Democrats joined forces with advocates and partners Tuesday at the Illinois State Capitol to bolster support for funding to save after-school programs.

“As a father raising two sons, I’m constantly looking to create a nurturing and supportive environment that they can thrive in,” said State Senator Ram Villivalam (D-Chicago). “This is precisely what after-school programs offer to the young members of our communities.”

21st Century Community Learning Centers is a federal program that provides funding for after-school programs that support the creation of community learning centers for youth who attend high-poverty and low-performing schools. Advocates are rallying for Senate Bill 2943, which would appropriate $50 million in funding to support over 40,000 youths currently enrolled in programs.

Read more: Senators Villivalam, Villanueva and Preston rally to save after-school programs

Johnson advances measure to empower students to learn about climate solutions

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Adriane Johnson advanced a measure Tuesday to enhance student knowledge on climate control.

“Our youth are already engaged on the topic of climate change and are eager to learn more about the real solutions and how it impacts all aspects of society,” said Johnson (D- Buffalo Grove). “Learning opportunities should be available to students to further their understanding of potential solutions to the issues climate changes poses.”

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 advances measure to empower students to learn about climate solutions

Ellman works to expand fentanyl education for grades 6-12

SPRINGFIELD – At the start of the 2025-2026 school year, all students in grades six through 12 would be required to learn about the dangers of fentanyl under a measure sponsored by State Senator Laura Ellman.

“Our youth represent our future, but also make up one of our most vulnerable populations,” said Ellman (D-Naperville). “We need to educate students sooner rather than later on the prevalence of fentanyl in our communities and the severe, long-term detriment it has on perpetuating the ongoing 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: Ellman works to expand fentanyl education for grades 6-12

Senate Democrats adjust floor dress code for a good cause

SPRINGFIELD — In place of the traditional loafers, high heels and flats, the Illinois Senate Democrats arrived to the chamber floor on Tuesday in their sneakers, a jarringly causal look compared to their usual attire in the General Assembly. However, this wardrobe change wasn’t because they wanted to be more comfortable during the longer session days – members of the caucus were participating in the American Cancer Society’s nationwide Suits and Sneakers campaign to raise awareness of cancer prevention, screening and early detection.

“Cancer has devastating impacts on families in our state, but there are methods to detect cancer early or prevent its growth,” said State Senator Julie Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “As the Chair of the Health and Human Services committee, I am proud to participate in the Suits and Sneakers event to raise visibility and support for the American Cancer Society’s important work, and to encourage more Illinoisans to get screened for cancer.”

Read more: Senate Democrats adjust floor dress code for a good cause