Holmes law ends predatory contract loan practice in pet stores

SPRINGFIELD –There are 17 pet stores in Illinois who offer installment contract loans for the purchase of a cat or dog. House Bill 572, sponsored by Senator Linda Holmes (D-Aurora) to prohibit the use of these loans, was signed into law Friday.

“This doesn’t just happen in payday loan stores, they’ve been getting away with predatory lending interest rates anywhere from 30 to 150% and higher,” Holmes said. “Most pet stores have issues with their animals coming from unprincipled breeders and puppy mills – some in poor condition – so these consumers can end up thousands in debt and grieving as well.”

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Holmes sees electronic notarization measure become law

SPRINGFIELD – The work of Senator Linda Holmes (D-Aurora) and an Electronic Notarization Task Force produced a report detailing the benefits for Illinoisans that was provided to the governor and General Assembly, and its findings led to a measure sponsored by Holmes that has been signed by the governor on Friday.

Senate Bill 2664 sets standards for appointment as an electronic notary, creates definitions for electronic notarization; codifies best practices of the National Association of Notaries for electronic notarization; and implements safeguards to ensure the integrity of the technology and the process of electronic notarization.

“I was convinced this was a step to update a process many people use but sometimes can’t find a notary nearby,” Holmes said. “Over the past year, the need for a convenient, protected method for notarization for businesses and consumers became even more obvious.”

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Johnson law protects Illinoisans in recovery from insurance discrimination

SPRINGFIELD – Individuals who have overcome addiction can no longer be denied life insurance coverage or charged sky-high rates solely because they have undergone treatment for substance abuse under a new law sponsored by State Senator Adriane Johnson (D-Buffalo Grove).

“For too long, life insurance companies have discriminated against those who have shown exceptional strength and commitment in seeking treatment for their addiction,” Johnson said. “This new law empowers them to move forward from their past and celebrate their recovery.”

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Bennett: New law adds to safeguards on coal ash cleanup

DANVILLE – State Senator Scott Bennett (D-Champaign) applauded the signing of legislation aimed to protect Illinois communities from toxic coal ash pollution, ensuring only trained employees work on coal ash removal projects.

“Coal ash, the toxic byproduct of burning coal in a power plant, is extremely dangerous and can leave a lasting impact on the environment, even after a plant has closed,” Bennett said. “I thank Governor Pritzker for signing this legislation to reduce coal’s toxic footprint in Illinois.”

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