Castro celebrates legislative success as measures are signed into law

ELGIN – In the months following the spring legislative session, State Senator Cristina Castro (D- Elgin) is celebrating the signing of a number of pieces of legislation she spearheaded to help Illinoisans.

“I am proud of the General Assembly’s work this year to pass a wide range of measures to improve the lives of Illinoisans,” Castro said. “As we prepare to return to session in the coming months, I hope to continue my work to support and protect residents of the state, especially our most vulnerable.”

Read more: Castro celebrates legislative success as measures are signed into law

New Harmon law allows school districts with overlapping boundaries to share student data

SPRINGFIELD — A measure sponsored by Senate President Don Harmon (D-Oak Park) to provide greater continuity of support for students from kindergarten through graduation is now law.

The new law allows elementary and high school districts with overlapping boundaries to share student information and records as long as there is an intergovernmental agreement in place.

“The inability of districts like Oak Park Elementary School District 97 to share this data has led to gaps in understanding of what works best for students,” Harmon said. “This law will help teachers, counselors and social workers meet the needs of the children they serve.”

Read more: New Harmon law allows school districts with overlapping boundaries to share student data

Simmons continues legislative councils series with second session for single moms

CHICAGO – State Senator Mike Simmons (D-Chicago) continued his series of legislative people’s councils by inviting single moms from across the 7^th District to his office for a discussion Thursday night.

“I want to reimagine the office of state senator in a way that shares decision making and policy goal-setting with people across the district whose voices have been ignored by decision makers,” Simmons said. “Nearly one out of three households in the 7^th District are headed by single parents. I feel it is critical to create open lines of communication that allow them to articulate their needs and enable me to write legislation that is relevant and that can make a difference in their livelihoods.”

Read more: Simmons continues legislative councils series with second session for single moms

Bennett: Celebrate Labor Day with safe and sober driving

CHAMPAIGN – This Labor Day weekend, State Senator Scott Bennett (D-Champaign) is echoing law enforcement to spread the word of the dangers of drinking and driving.

“Drinking and driving under the influence is senseless behavior and can cost a life,” Bennett said. “These types of tragedies are preventable, and we don’t want to lose anyone this year.”

The high-visibility “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” enforcement campaign runs now through the early morning hours of Sept. 7. During this period, motorists in Champaign County, Vermilion County and across the state can expect to see stepped-up impaired driving patrols and seat belt enforcement, particularly at night, when seat belt usage rates are at their lowest. Speeders and distracted drivers should also be aware.

Read more: Bennett: Celebrate Labor Day with safe and sober driving