On this episode of Sound of the State, State Senator Cristina Castro discusses the Dignity in Pay Act, sharing her personal connection to the long struggle to ensure equity in pay for workers with disabilities, and how this legislation will enshrine and bolster opportunities for economic independence for workers.

From deceptive crisis pregnancy centers to efforts from other states to weaponize digital data, Senator Celina Villanueva details the challenges surrounding reproductive care — and how Illinois is pushing back through landmark legislation designed to safeguard personal freedom and privacy.

From newsroom intimidation to national security transparency, Senator Steve Stadelman shares candid insights on the real-world pressure journalists face — and how Illinois’ new protections aim to defend the public’s right to know.

From reducing access to health care and meals for public school students, to slashing options for student loan repayments, the federal administration’s budget makes devastating cuts across education – from preschool to college. State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel, a former teacher, joins the Sound of the State to discuss the impact HR1 has on our students.