Murphy measure to protect libraries passes Senate

SPRINGFIELD – To protect people’s freedom to read, State Senator Laura Murphy passed legislation to prevent the banning of books.

“Our nation’s libraries have been under attack for too long—they are bastions of knowledge and proliferate the spread of ideas,” said Murphy (D-Des Plaines). “We have a duty as lawmakers to protect the rights of our people—including the First Amendment right to freedom of speech and expression.”

Under this measure, a library or library system must adopt the American Library Association’s Library Bill of Rights or develop a written statement prohibiting the practice of banning books or materials in order to be eligible for state grants.

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Ellman seeks to educate students on the dangers of allergies

SPRINGFIELD – A measure to provide classroom instruction on food and environmental allergies and allergic reactions sponsored by State Senator Laura Ellman passed the Senate Education Committee Tuesday.

“Most people can relate to suffering from seasonal allergies, but we also have to consider folks that suffer from food allergies,” said Ellman (D-Naperville). “Severe allergic reactions are life-threatening situations that can happen anywhere to both students and teachers.”

According to the CDC, one in thirteen children experience food and environmental allergies, which equates to nearly two students per classroom. Strict avoidance of the allergen is necessary, as there is no known cure for food allergies. Avoidance is not always possible, so the CDC urges education centers to develop proactive plans for responding to unprompted allergy emergencies.

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Elgin receives $44,000 for tourism industry with support from Castro

ELGIN – With strong support from State Senator Cristina Castro, $44,000 will be coming to Elgin to boost local tourism efforts and attract visitors to destination activities throughout Illinois.

“With more than 1,000 hotel rooms and a community that has deep cultural roots and historic treasures for all to enjoy, Elgin has so much to offer visitors and residents alike,” said Castro (D-Elgin). “As a lifelong resident, I know that the investments we make in our communities will generate benefits for years to come.”

Read more: Elgin receives $44,000 for tourism industry with support from Castro

Senator Fine ensures victims of human rights violations have more avenues to seek justice

SPRINGFIELD – To provide all victims of human rights violations the opportunity to seek justice, State Senator Laura Fine is working on legislation with the Illinois Department of Human Rights to improve how they investigate possible violations.

“With this law, we are assuring Illinoisans who have a human rights complaint that we hear them and are willing to fight for them,” said Fine (D-Glenview). “There will be more avenues to pursue justice with this measure and will help ensure no one slips through the cracks.”

Read more: Senator Fine ensures victims of human rights violations have more avenues to seek justice