News

SPRINGFIELD – Legislation championed by State Senator Steve Stadelman to strengthen protections for survivors of domestic violence has been signed into law, closing a gap that could leave victims vulnerable between an emergency order of protection and the service of a final order of protection.

“When court determines that a survivor needs a final order of protection, that protection should never be interrupted because of an administrative delay,” said Stadelman (D-Rockford). “This new law will ensure an order of protection remains fully enforceable throughout the process and will give survivors greater certainty that the legal protections granted to them will remain in place.”

More than 62,000 petitions for orders of protection were filed in Illinois last year, underscoring the importance of ensuring these legal safeguards remain effective and enforceable.

SPRINGFIELD – Legislation championed by State Senator Steve Stadelman to strengthen protections for older adults and vulnerable individuals facing abuse, neglect and financial exploitation has been signed into law, providing courts with additional tools to intervene quickly and prevent further harm.

“Financial exploitation can be devastating, stripping vulnerable individuals of their savings, independence and security,” said Stadelman (D-Rockford). “This new law will give courts and law enforcement the ability to act swiftly when exploitation is suspected, helping protect victims and preserve their assets before irreversible damage occurs.”

The law creates a new mechanism to safeguard the assets of eligible adults who have been reported or found to be victims of abuse, abandonment, neglect, financial exploitation or self-neglect. Stadelman emphasized the law is intended to improve responses to exploitation cases involving scammers who may communicate only through apps or other indirect methods.

ROCKFORD – State Senator Steve Stadelman announced five organizations across the Rockford area are set to receive more than $1.2 million through the Restore, Reinvest, Renew program to support violence prevention, youth development, economic opportunity and other community-based services.

“Investing in the safety and success of our youth is one of the best ways to strengthen our communities,” said Stadelman (D-Rockford). “This funding will help local organizations continue providing safe spaces, mentorship and opportunities that empower youth and set them up for leading brighter futures.”

More than $50 million was awarded to 147 organizations statewide through the Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority’s R3 program, which funds services in designated eligible R3 zones. R3 grants invest in organizations that support five core areas: community reentry, economic development, civil legal aid, violence prevention and youth development.

ROCKFORD – State Senator Steve Stadelman announced six public libraries and school districts across Northern Illinois are set to receive nearly $500,000 for library services, enhanced programming and construction and security upgrades.

“Our libraries are more than places to borrow books – they are trusted community resources that connect people with education, technology and opportunities to succeed,” said Stadelman (D-Rockford). “Supporting our libraries means investing in stronger neighborhoods, informed residents and a brighter future for communities across Illinois.”

More than $27 million was awarded to over 640 public libraries and 2,500 school libraries statewide through the Illinois Secretary of State’s Public Library Per Capita and Equalization Aid Grants, Security and Construction Grants and School Library Grants. The funding will support libraries’ investments in reading materials, technology, literacy programs, infrastructure improvements and security upgrades. School library grants, awarded once every fiscal year, will support student learning and literacy from kindergarten through 12th grade.