SPRINGFIELD – A new law championed by State Senator Steve Stadelman will combat Illinois’ shrinking newsrooms and support aspiring journalists.

“Local journalism is the heartbeat of our communities, shining a light on local issues in a way corporate media isn’t interested in,” said Stadelman (D-Rockford). “By requiring notice prior to the sale of a local news organization, we are creating an opportunity to protect the livelihoods of employees and preserving the continuity of community-focused journalism.”

To address the steady decline of local journalism, Stadelman’s law requires local news organizations to notify its employees and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity 120 days before the organization is sold. The goal is to give other businesses, newspapers and nonprofits the opportunity to acquire the publication, preserving local journalism and preventing its sale to a private equity firm.

SPRINGFIELD – Families will now have enhanced college savings opportunities thanks to State Senator Steve Stadelman.

“This law gives families peace of mind, knowing that their hard-earned savings will not go to waste,” said Stadelman (D-Rockford). “By enabling the rollover of unused funds into a retirement account, we are helping young adults build a secure financial foundation for the future.”

The law allows parents with 529 college savings plans to utilize unused or leftover college or trade school funds by adding them to a retirement account. This provision ensures that savings intended for educational purposes can continue to benefit the student, even if their educational expenses are less than anticipated.

SPRINGFIELD – Victims of hazing will have new and strengthened protections thanks to State Senator Steve Stadelman.

“Today marks a pivotal moment in our ongoing efforts to support and protect victims of crime,” said Stadelman (D-Rockford). “We are sending a clear message that consent obtained through duress, manipulation or an abuse of power will not be tolerated as a defense in our justice system. This law ensures that perpetrators cannot escape accountability by exploiting their victims.”

Stadelman’s new law mandates that consent from a victim does not absolve perpetrators from prosecution. This significant legislative change aims to reinforce the protections afforded to victims of crime and ensure justice is served.

ROCKFORD – An additional $4 million has been provided by the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency for Rockford’s ongoing lead water line replacement, State Senator Steve Stadelman announced Friday.

“Replacing lead pipes in our community is essential for safeguarding public health,” Stadelman (D-Rockford) said. “Lead contamination poses serious health risks, particularly to children. This funding is a critical investment in clean, safe drinking water for all residents and protecting our future generations.”

The $4 million award is Rockford’s sixth from the IEPA State Revolving Fund, which provides low-interest loan funding for drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater projects. Rockford’s zero percent interest loan ensures the community does not incur interest fees while the loan is being repaid.

The IEPA has provided $122 million in funding for lead service line replacements since 2017. For resources on lead in your home, visit the IEPA website.