300pxStadelmanStadelman moves to protect online customers

Senator Steve Stadelman has introduced legislation in committee that would protect the rights of consumers to leave honest online reviews of products and services without fear of retaliation. The measure prevents companies and service providers from enforcing non-disparagement clauses when included in sales contracts. Such clauses typically contain language prohibiting consumers from leaving negative feedback about the retailer. Oftentimes, particularly online, a consumer must accept the terms of a contract before completing a purchase.
“Although I understand that businesses don’t want to be unfairly criticized, it is important to protect the right of the consumer to voice their opinion,” Stadelman said. “In many cases, people might not even realize they signed a non-disparagement agreement until a company takes action against them.”  

Only two states – California and Maryland – have laws in place banning non-disparagement clauses. Illinois has general consumer protection laws in place that prohibit unfair business practices and fraud but do not specifically address non-disparagement clauses. SB 1898 passed the Senate judiciary committee and will move to the full Senate for consideration.

Stadelman invites public to three Town Hall meetings

Senator Steve Stadelman has scheduled three Town Hall meetings to listen to concerns of the citizens he represents and answer questions about Illinois’ budget process and legislation pending in Springfield. A representative from the state’s I-Cash program will be available April 11 and 18 to conduct data base searches for Illinois residents who may be eligible for millions of dollars in unclaimed funds.
 

Tuesday, April 11
5:30-7 PM
Rockford Public Library – Montague Branch
Constance V. Lane Community Room
1238 S. Winnebago St.
Rockford, IL
 
Thursday, April 13
5:30-7 PM
Machesney Park Village Hall
300 Roosevelt Road
Machesney Park, IL
 
Tuesday, April 18
5:30-7 PM
Rockford Public Library – East Branch
Community Room
6685 E. State St.
Rockford, IL
 
Former Senator Holmberg honored with Senate Resolution
Joyce Holmberg, who represented the 34th District in the Illinois Senate from 1982 until 1992, has been honored with Senate Resolution No. 356, which mourns her passing March 20 at age 86 and commends her many accomplishments as a teacher and public official.

The resolution, introduced in the 100th General Assembly by Senator Steve Stadelman, was presented to her family during a memorial service last week at Zion Lutheran Church in Rockford.

Holmberg was a graduate of East High School in Rockford and earned education and counseling degrees from Northern Illinois University and Adler School of Professional Psychology. Before her election to the Illinois Senate, Holmberg hosted a weekly cable television show on parenting in her position as parent-community coordinator for Rockford Public Schools. She also was a Rock Valley College instructor.

As a state lawmaker, Holmberg created the Illinois College Savings Bond program and secured funding for the NIU campus in Rockford. She served as a delegate to the Democratic National Convention in 1984, 1992 and 1996.

"Joyce Holmberg was a passionate advocate for public education and a trailblazer for women in government," Stadelman said. "I'm honored to serve in the seat she held with distinction."