Toro legislation prohibiting discrimination in the workplace clears Senate

SPRINGFIELD — Legislation prohibiting employer discrimination based on family obligations has passed the Senate and is one step closer to becoming law, thanks to efforts from State Senator Natalie Toro.

“Why should employees be punished for their family responsibilities if they have demonstrated that they do not impact their work performance?” said Toro (D-Chicago). “Working parents and family caregivers deserve to be treated the same as their colleagues without family responsibilities, especially when employers are making hiring decisions. I am glad this measure will protect employees from unfair treatment and empower people with family responsibilities to achieve success in their careers.”

Read more: Toro legislation prohibiting discrimination in the workplace clears Senate

Johnson measure to empower students to learn about climate solutions heads to governor’s desk

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Adriane Johnson championed a measure to ensure students learn about the impacts of climate change in school.

“The integration of environmental literacy is crucial to youth development,” said Johnson (D- Buffalo Grove). “By learning about climate change, students are empowered to take action and make informed decisions.”

House Bill 4895 would task public schools in Illinois with providing learning opportunities on the environmental and ecological impacts of climate change and solutions for addressing the crisis. Schools would be granted the flexibility to decide whether to create a separate class or implement these lessons into existing relevant classes.

Read more: Johnson measure to empower students to learn about climate solutions heads to governor’s desk

Senators Fine, Bryant and Fowler remain vigilant on plan prioritizing Choate residents’ wellbeing 

SPRINGFIELD — State Senators Laura Fine, Terri Bryant and Dale Fowler responded Thursday to a news investigation that uncovered abuse caught on camera at Choate Mental Health and Developmental Center in Anna, Illinois.  

“What has continued to happen at this facility is unacceptable,” said Senator Laura Fine (D-Glenview), chair of the Senate Behavioral and Mental Health Committee. “Stronger oversight must be incorporated into the Choate transition plan to hold bad actors like this individual accountable so the state’s most vulnerable residents are kept safe.” 

Read more: Senators Fine, Bryant and Fowler remain vigilant on plan prioritizing Choate residents’ wellbeing 

Johnson measure to prohibit corporal punishment in private schools passes Senate

SPRINGFIELD – To safeguard students statewide and ensure they are treated with respect in schools, State Senator Adriane Johnson championed an initiative tackling corporal punishment in private and non-public schools.

“Corporal punishment can cause significant psychological harm, including fear, anxiety, depression, and a negative self-image,” said Johnson (D- Buffalo Grove). “These impacts can affect a child’s mental health long-term.”

Read more: Johnson measure to prohibit corporal punishment in private schools passes Senate