ROCKFORD – The Cherry Valley Police Department’s command center has received $250,000 for upgrades, thanks to State Senator Steve Stadelman.

“Investing in the renovation of the Cherry Valley Police Department’s command center is an investment in the safety and security of our community,” said Stadelman (D-Rockford). “Equipping our local first responders with the necessary resources to effectively address any situation is paramount to ensuring public safety.”

A squad room in the Cherry Valley Police Department will be turned into a unified command center for use in cases where law enforcement and emergency responders from multiple jurisdictions are called to help.

SPRINGFIELD – In a step toward greater transparency in political communication, State Senator Steve Stadelman has introduced legislation aimed at mandating disclosure on political materials generated by artificial intelligence.

“In an era where AI-generated content is increasingly prevalent, it is imperative that people have full disclosure regarding the origin of the ads they see,” said Stadelman (D-Rockford). “Transparency is fundamental to the democratic process.”

Senate Bill 2762 would require political ads to clearly disclose if they are AI-generated. According to the Brennan Center, the use of AI in political communications leads to challenges such as misleading people and amplifying ongoing issues of election misinformation.

ROCKFORD – State Senator Steve Stadelman has announced that the popular Stroll on State festival in Rockford has received a $100,000 grant to improve and expand the event.

“Festivals bring people together and foster a sense of community,” said Stadelman (D-Rockford). “This funding will go a long way to ensure that all visitors of the holiday festival receive a magical experience.”

A total of $4.6 million was awarded by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity to local tourism organizations throughout the state to a total of 20 grantees – including Stroll on State.

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Steve Stadelman is leading a measure to protect election workers from threats and harassment.

“Election workers are the backbone of our democracy,” said Stadelman (D-Rockford). “People working for elections should be able to perform their job without the threat of violence or harassment.”

Senate Bill 2932 would prohibit people from intimidating or threatening an election worker with the intent to interfere with their election-related duties. A person who violates these provisions would be guilty of a petty offense and subject to a fine of up to $1,000. According to the Brennan Center, nearly one in three election officials have been harassed, abused, or threatened because of their job.