Illinois Senate Democrats applaud farmers on Ag Day

SPRINGFIELD — Today, members of the Illinois Senate Democratic Caucus commemorated the 54th annual Illinois Agriculture Legislative Day, highlighting the importance of supporting farmers and the state’s agricultural industry.

Organized by the Illinois Department of Agriculture, this daylong event serves as a platform for industry stakeholders to engage directly with legislators, discussing issues impacting agriculture and rural communities.

"Our farmers are the backbone of our communities,” said State Senator Doris Turner (D-Springfield).  “This is an opportunity to build partnerships that support those who feed us, build our economy and supply locally sourced products throughout our communities.”

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Murphy’s measure to address paper check fraud advances

SPRINGFIELD – Victims of paper check fraud are one step closer to relief thanks to a measure from State Senator Laura Murphy.

“Instances of paper check fraud have been on the rise in the last few years, and the regulations in place don’t always protect consumers,” said Murphy (D-Des Plaines). “Victims can wait months for relief and still never see it. Hardworking Illinoisans deserve better.”

Paper check fraud often involves what is known as “check washing,” a process of stealing an existing check and altering it to reflect a larger value and a different payee. Under Murphy’s measure, financial institutions would be required to investigate paper check fraud within 10 business days after receiving notice from a customer. If it is determined that fraud occurred, the institution would need to refund the customer’s account with the amount of the fraud within one business day.

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Stadelman legislation to increase highway construction safety

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Steve Stadelman has introduced legislation to require driver’s education courses to include instruction on worker safety in highway construction zones.

“Ensuring the safety of both drivers and construction workers on our roadways is a shared responsibility,” said Stadelman (D-Rockford). “By equipping our future drivers with the knowledge and understanding necessary to navigate construction zones with caution and respect, we can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and tragedies.”

Senate Bill 3151 would require public school district driver education courses to include an instruction on worker safety in highway construction and maintenance zones.

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Morrison to improve early diagnosis of fatal pediatric disease

SPRINGFIELD – Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy – also known as DMD – is a rare disorder, but severe if not caught early enough to be treated. State Senator Julie Morrison introduced a bill that would require all newborns to be screened for DMD.

“Although rare, DMD is a devastating disease – often taking children from their parents around the age of 5,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “Early diagnoses of DMD will save precious lives and restore hope.”

Read more: Morrison to improve early diagnosis of fatal pediatric disease