Preston measure to protect children from social media harms signed by governor

SPRINGFIELD — A measure spearheaded by State Senator Willie Preston to protect children from harmful and addictive online practices has been signed into law, marking a major step toward improving digital safety for young people across Illinois.

“Parents shouldn’t have to fight an uphill battle to keep their children safe online,” said Preston (D-Chicago). “For too long, tech companies have put profits ahead of young people’s well-being. Families deserve clear information about how these platforms operate, stronger safeguards for kids and accountability when companies fail to protect them.”

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Koehler law to strengthen mental health reviews in nursing homes

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Dave Koehler’s House Bill 4509 designed to improve nursing home mental health evaluations has become law.

“Careful care of our most vulnerable population sends a clear message that even as you age, our state will allow you to do so with grace and dignity,” said Koehler (D-Peoria) “This law ensures that those who are in nursing home care living with a serious mental illness receive the proper help and mental health review so they can return to a life of comfort without being a threat to those around them.”

The new law requires the Illinois Department of Human Services or a designee to visit any individual admitted to a nursing home with a diagnosis of serious mental illness within 60 days of admission. It would also require a resident review within 72 hours when a resident with serious mental illness experiences a significant change in their physical or mental health.

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Cervantes law to boost quality of care at disability service agencies

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Javier Loera Cervantes spearheaded a new law that will address growing concerns regarding health care and disability service agencies being owned by private equity asset management companies.

“Our disability service systems must be accountable to the people they serve,” said Cervantes (D-Chicago). “With more transparent information about agencies’ ownership, lawmakers and regulators will be in a stronger position to ensure our most vulnerable residents are protected from losing the services they need and can continue to lead fulfilling lives.”

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Feigenholtz: Everyone has a right to self-determination

Expansion of supported decision-making law maximizes independence for all

SPRINGFIELD — Illinois will soon join a growing list of states that have maximized independence by expanding alternatives to traditional guardianship under a new law spearheaded by State Senator Sara Feigenholtz.

“Individuals should be able to make independent choices regarding their personal and financial life decisions,” Feigenholtz (D-Chicago) said. “This new law will support that goal, giving people the freedom to decide for themselves, while ensuring guidance is there when they need it.”

Illinois’ supported decision-making process allows an individual to identify a supporter to help them interpret information, weigh options and communicate their decisions about health care, life choices and financial matters. This unique model fosters confidence and supports people’s ability to make informed decisions while maintaining autonomy.

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