Pacione-Zayas DHS home visiting program legislation passes Senate
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SPRINGFIELD – Home visiting is an essential program in the early childhood ecosystem that helps eligible parents and caregivers support their child’s development from the prenatal phase through age five. A legislative initiative introduced by State Senator Cristina H. Pacione-Zayas, which would codify home visiting programs administered by the Department of Human Services as they have done for over 30 years, passed through the Senate on Wednesday, March 29.
“All parents want to provide the best environment in which to raise their child, but the resources needed to best support their children may be inaccessible for many caregivers,” said Pacione-Zayas (D-Chicago). “Home visiting programs help connect families to community resources that can provide the support their children need to succeed, while also prioritizing greater family stability.”
Typical home visits involve in-person interviews with family members and caregivers, guidance on promoting safety in the family’s living space and coaching on approaches to parenting that promote healthy development.
Read more: Pacione-Zayas DHS home visiting program legislation passes Senate
Villanueva champions measure to address deceptive practices interfering with reproductive health care
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SPRINGFIELD – In continuing the fight for reproductive rights for women, State Senator Celina Villanueva passed legislation that prevents crisis pregnancy centers from using deceptive practices that interfere with women’s health care decisions.
“We must ensure that women who are seeking reproductive health care are protected from deceptive and misleading practices,” said Villanueva (D-Chicago). “At a time when they are already vulnerable, they must have peace of mind that they won’t be taken advantage of. Health care – in all forms – should be safe and transparent.”
Senate Bill 1909 prohibits the use of deceptive practices to interfere with an individual seeking to gain entry or access to the provider of an abortion or emergency contraceptives, induce an individual to enter a limited services pregnancy center, in advertising, soliciting, or otherwise offering pregnancy-related services, or in providing pregnancy-related services.
Illinois Electric Co-operative Day in Springfield
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SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Electric Cooperative organized a trip to the Illinois State Capitol on Wednesday for children from all over the state. IEC, which provides electricity to rural areas, gave youth a chance to learn more about state government and see the Capitol up close, as well as time to meet some of their state senators while in town.
The children showed a lot of enthusiasm and curiosity throughout the visit. They were particularly interested in learning about the legislative process and how bills become laws. They also had a chance to ask questions of their elected officials and learn more about the work they do on behalf of their constituents.
"It was great to see these young people so interested in how our government works," said State Senator Christopher Belt (D-Swansea). "They asked some really thoughtful questions and showed a real understanding of the issues facing our state. It gives me hope for the future."
Read more: Illinois Electric Co-operative Day in Springfield
Leader Murphy creates program to raise awareness of Lyme disease
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SPRINGFIELD – To raise awareness of Lyme disease, one of the most underreported and dangerous vector-borne diseases, State Senator Laura Murphy is creating the Lyme Disease Innovation Program.
“I hope that by bringing forth this proposal more people will learn how to spot tick bites and the symptoms of Lyme disease,” said Murphy (D-Des Plaines). “Illinoisans need to know the dangers of this disease.”
Lyme disease is caused by a bacterial infection transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected tick. Symptoms include fever, headache and skin rash. If Lyme disease is not treated, the infection can spread to the heart, nervous system and joints.
Read more: Leader Murphy creates program to raise awareness of Lyme disease
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