State Senator Graciela Guzmán and State Representative Lilian Jiménez discuss the Safe Schools for All Act, a new law that will protect Illinois students from having immigration authorities called on them or family members while they are in the classroom.

As Chair of the Senate Labor Committee, Senator Robert Peters knows how vital workers are to our state’s success. From the Haymarket Riots to today’s workforce development, Illinois has always been at the heart of America’s labor movement. In this Labor Day episode of Sound of the State, he shares why Illinois is leading the way in labor rights and equity.

No one should face barriers to care after experiencing sexual assault. Senator Julie Morrison joins the Sound of the State to explain how her new law requires hospitals to put survivors first—strengthening trauma-informed care, expanding nurse examiner training, and giving the Illinois Department of Public Health more authority to ensure hospitals meet their responsibilities.

The Illinois State Fair is more than fun and funnel cakes — it’s a celebration of agriculture, youth leadership, and investment in our state’s #1 industry. Senator Doris Turner and Illinois Department of Agriculture Director Jerry Costello talk about upgrades to the fairgrounds, diversity in ag, and what the future holds for FFA, 4-H, and more.