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.

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.

Police in Cherry Valley will receive state funds to enforce Illinois laws that prohibit dangerous individuals from keeping firearms.

Cherry Valley Police can use its $11,120.03 award from the State Police Enforcement Fund to form enforcement details to focus on individuals who have become the subject of a Firearm Restraining Order, been declared a clear and present danger or been criminally convicted, among other reasons that would preclude possession of a firearm.

"We have enacted sensible laws in Illinois so that people who have made homicidal or suicidal threats or who otherwise demonstrate they pose danger to the public are not allowed to have firearms," Stadelman said. "Grants like this give local police the resources they need to enforce these important laws for keeping the public safe from gun violence."

Cherry Valley is among 21 police agencies to benefit from a third round of Illinois State Police firearm enforcement grants totaling $1.5 million.