Ellman spearheads crucial AI companion safety bill to protect youth and vulnerable users

SPRINGFIELD – According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, suicide was the second leading cause of death among people ages 10-14 and 25-34 in the United States, underscoring growing concerns about the role online platforms and AI systems can play in vulnerable users’ mental health crises. To increase protections aimed at preventing self-harm, State Senator Laura Ellman moved legislation to establish safety standards for artificial intelligence companion chatbots, including sexually explicit interactions with minors.

“For many users, especially children and teens, these systems can feel deeply personal and emotionally real,” said Ellman (D-Naperville). “People deserve transparency about when they are interacting with AI, and parents deserve reassurance that companies are taking reasonable steps to protect minors from harmful or sexually explicit content.”

Read more: Ellman spearheads crucial AI companion safety bill to protect youth and vulnerable users

Glowiak Hilton plan expands protections for seniors from abuse

SPRINGFIELD — To stamp out cases of caregiver abuse and exploitation, State Senator Suzy Glowiak Hilton led a measure to expand criminal liability to voluntary caregivers who look after seniors and individuals with disabilities.

“Holding bad actors accountable can strengthen protections for vulnerable populations,” said Glowiak Hilton (D-Western Springs). “By addressing abuse, neglect and exploitation, we can ensure our seniors and individuals with disabilities live with the dignity, safety and respect they deserve.”

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Guzmán pushes to disconnect adult education from federal rules

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Graciela Guzmán’s bill to disconnect Illinois adult education funding from federal rules passed the Senate Thursday.

“Adult education programs need to be seen as necessary, not optional,” said Guzmán (D-Chicago). “Education institutions continue to be pressured by the Trump administration and Illinois needs to stand up for its adult learners.”

The measure comes as the Trump administration continues to threaten education funding and demand an unprecedented role in university admission, curriculum and operations. Without action from the state, federal threats to education programs under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act could limit Illinois residents’ access to higher education and key adult education programs.

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Guzmán effort to expand mammogram access to all ages passes Senate

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Graciela Guzmán’s push to allow mammograms under all health insurance policies regardless of the person’s age has passed the Senate.

“If a health care provider or a patient has a concern, there should not be an arbitrary age limit for proper care,” said Guzmán (D-Chicago). “Issues addressed sooner can lead to earlier detection of breast cancer and that will bring more effective treatment and better survival rates for those diagnosed.”

Read more: Guzmán effort to expand mammogram access to all ages passes Senate