
SPRINGFIELD ─ State Senator Ram Villivalam is championing a measure that would increase transparency when utility companies ask the Illinois Commerce Commission to raise their rates.
“Cost of living is on the rise – and so are our utility bills,” said Villivalam (D-Chicago). “Meanwhile, utility rate hikes are occurring without transparency or an opportunity for public input.”
Read more: Villivalam advances measure expanding transparency on utility rates
SPRINGFIELD – Children in play-based learning environments show stronger language skills, cognitive and social development than their peers in more challenging academic settings, according to the National Association for the Education of Young Children, a finding that is driving new efforts in Illinois to strengthen early education. State Senator Mary Edly-Allen advanced legislation to reinforce those practices in classrooms across the state.
“By clearly defining play-based learning, we are giving educators the tools they need to create classrooms where children can explore, grow and build the foundational skills that set them up for long-term success,” said Edly-Allen (D- Grayslake). “As an educator and parent, I have seen firsthand how powerful play can be in helping children develop confidence, curiosity and a love of learning,”
Read more: Edly-Allen measure aims to strengthen play-based learning advances

SPRINGFIELD – In an effort to modernize vehicle law to reflect the growth in agricultural technology, State Senator Patrick Joyce passed a measure through committee that would allow heavier farm wagons and similar agricultural equipment to qualify for existing code exemptions on the road.
“A farmer who operates in my district came to me and helped shine a light on the issue we have here,” said Joyce (D-Essex). “We have a farmer who is just trying to move his crops from the field to his grain elevator down the road, and he is getting pulled over for being over a weight limit that hasn’t been adjusted in over 45 years.”
Read more: Joyce working to update outdated vehicle law affecting farmers

SPRINGFIELD – Many residents in Illinois are struggling to keep up with their medical debt in the face of corporate greed. State Senator Graciela Guzmán has advanced legislation through the Senate to protect those burdened by health care debt from having a lien placed on their home during a health care debt collection.
“Housing and health care are human rights that Illinois must strive to protect and provide for its residents,” said Guzmán (D-Chicago). “While health care corporations make massive profits, they are attempting to threaten the homes of people who need treatment but cannot afford it. This practice cannot go on.”
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