Stadelman law strengthens protections for victims of hazing

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.

Read more …

Stadelman announces $4 million to replace lead water lines in Rockford

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.

Stadelman law protects utility customers from shutoffs

• Utility Services
• Gas and Electric
• LIHEAP

SPRINGFIELD – Utility customers who apply for state energy bill assistance will soon have greater protections safeguarding them from disconnection, thanks to a new law championed by State Senator Steve Stadelman.

“This is about making sure our most vulnerable community members do not have to face the threat of losing essential utility services while they seek much-needed financial assistance,” said Stadelman (D-Rockford). “It provides a critical safety net during times of economic uncertainty.”

To ensure vulnerable populations maintain access to essential utilities during times of financial hardship, the measure requires electric and gas companies with more than 500,000 customers to prevent the disconnection of utility services for those actively seeking energy payment assistance.

Read more …

Stadelman cites cooperation as key in $334 million in funding for Belvidere Assembly Plant

BELVIDERE – State Senator Steve Stadelman applauded today's announcement of $334 million in federal funding for the Stellantis assembly plant as another example of the multi-level leadership that's saving local automaking jobs and strengthening Illinois' clean energy economy.

"Belvidere's assembly plant, which has been a driving force in the regional economy for decades, will not only reopen but will expand because of the cooperation of state, federal and local officials and labor leaders," Stadelman said. "The historic state incentive package I sponsored and passed provided a foundation that more than rescued the idled production facility. The manufacture of electric vehicles along with a battery plant and parts distribution center will make Belvidere an EV hub and bring more jobs to support families in Boone and Winnebago Counties."

Stadelman passed the Reimaging Energy and Vehicles Act that offered tax credits and other incentives for electric vehicle production in Illinois. Today's announcement involves a $334 million grant through the U.S. Department of Energy's Domestic Manufacturing Conversion program to encourage widespread adoption of zero-emission vehicles.