SPRINGFIELD – To protect residents from losing access to their electric or gas services, State Senator Steve Stadelman led legislation through the Senate to prevent the disconnection of services for customers actively seeking energy payment assistance.

“This is a significant step in ensuring that all Illinois residents have access to the energy they need, especially during difficult times,” said Stadelman (D-Rockford). “No family should have to choose between keeping the lights on and putting food on the table.”

The legislation would require utility companies with more than 500,000 customers to enact procedures to prevent the disconnection of services for customers who are actively seeking energy payment assistance. Customers who apply for assistance through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program or the Percentage of Income Payment Plan would be protected from disconnection for 30 days after the utility receives notice of the customer’s application. If assistance is received, the customer is protected for an additional 45 days.

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Steve Stadelman’s legislation to lower the age of consent for blood typing services to 17 passed the Senate Wednesday.

“This bill is a step forward in empowering young people to take control of their health,” said Stadelman (D-Rockford). “Lowering the age for blood typing consent to 17 ensures that more individuals have the ability to make informed decisions about their medical care, which can be crucial in emergency situations and for future health planning.”

ROCKFORD – State Senator Steve Stadelman is pleased to announce that two businesses within the 34^th District have been awarded grants through the Made in Illinois Grant Program.

“The Made in Illinois Grant Program is a crucial tool in our commitment to enhancing the industrial base of Illinois,” said Stadelman (D-Rockford). “Providing local manufacturers with the resources they need to thrive in a competitive global market will ensure a boost to the local economy.”

The program, which provides up to $50,000 in matching grant funding, is dedicated to fostering innovation and strategic advancements within the Illinois manufacturing sector. Forty recipients across the state were awarded a combined total of $1.7 million.

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Steve Stadelman has introduced a measure that aims to allow seventeen year olds to receive blood typing services without the need for parental consent.

“Knowing your blood type is not only critical in emergency situations, but it also encourages a deeper understanding and responsibility toward one’s health,” said Stadelman (D-Rockford). “This bill supports our young adults in making proactive health choices independently, and educating themselves on their own health.”

The legislation would enable young adults to gain greater autonomy over their health information and medical preparedness. By lowering the age threshold for blood typing without parental consent to 17, the bill recognizes the maturity of these individuals to make informed decisions about their own health care needs.

“This is about trusting our young people and giving them the tools they need to take charge of their health,” said Stadelman. “It’s a small but significant step in ensuring our health care system is responsive and accessible to everyone.”

House Bill 4271 passed the Senate Public Health Committee on Tuesday and heads to the full Senate for further consideration.