Villivalam joins Secretary of State to advocate for raising the age for in-person driver’s license renewals

SPRINGFIELD — Following the advancement of House Bill 1226 through the Senate Transportation Committee, State Senator Ram Villivalam joined Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias, State Representative Jay Hoffman and AARP Senior Manager of Advocacy and Outreach Ryan Gruenenfelder to raise awareness about the measure that would reduce barriers for seniors renewing their driver’s licenses.

“I am so proud that we have moved to the step of the process with this legislation as Illinois is the only state that bases behind-the-wheel driving tests on age,” said Villivalam (D-Chicago).

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Koehler leads legislation to help parents advocate for their child’s mental health needs

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Dave Koehler is leading a measure to ensure parents and guardians of students who receive special needs services can access their children's mental health records.

"Parents are essential in supporting their children's education and well-being," said Koehler (D-Peoria). "This bill ensures they have the information needed to make informed decisions about their child's care."

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Villivalam measure to phase out forever chemicals in protective clothing and equipment

SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Ram Villivalam is sponsoring a measure, in collaboration with the Associated Firefighters of Illinois, that would further protect firefighters by phasing out the use of clothing and equipment containing toxic chemicals known as PFAS.

“Firefighters risk their lives each day responding to fires, car accidents and more,” said Villivalam (D-Chicago). “Continuing to allow for harmful chemicals to be used in their protective clothing and equipment puts their long-term health at risk.”

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have been used in both protective clothing and equipment for its ability to repel water, oil and dirt and provide thermal stability and durability. Recent studies show that the use of PFAS in clothing and equipment has adverse health effects, including increased risks of cancer.

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Villanueva leads measure to strengthen crime victims’ rights and prevent deceptive investigations

SPRINGFIELD – In a continued effort to ensure survivors of crime are treated with dignity and respect from the moment they come forward, State Senator Celina Villanueva is leading legislation to protect victims from deceptive practices during investigations.

“Survivors of crime deserve compassion and transparency—not manipulation,” said Senator Villanueva (D-Chicago). “This measure makes it clear that basic dignity and truthfulness are not an option during investigations—they’re a right.”

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