ROCKFORD – Seniors and people living with disabilities will now have greater access to safe, reliable public transportation thanks to over $1 million supported by State Senator Steve Stadelman for nine new busses.

“Public transportation provides more than just rides – it provides opportunities,” said Stadelman (D-Rockford). “Strengthening our mass transit system will allow residents to access secure and reliable transportation options.”

SPRINGFIELD –State Senator Steve Stadelman (D-Rockford) released the following statement regarding the governor’s budget proposal on Wednesday:

“I am pleased with the governor’s proposed investments in education for students in Illinois. Adequate funding for education provides students with necessary resources and provides the added benefit of giving people a break on their property taxes.

ROCKFORD – State Senator Steve Stadelman announced Harlem School District 122 has received over $1.6 million through the Illinois State Board of Education, to allow the district to reduce property taxes and replace it with state funds.

“Ensuring all students – regardless of ZIP code – have access to high quality education is vital,” said Stadelman (D-Rockford). “The grant awarded to Harlem School District 122 will help lower property taxes for area residents, while increasing funding adequacy for school districts.”

A total of 155 districts applied for this grant, and 32 districts received grants. Harlem School District 122, located in Machesney Park, received over $1.6 million.

ROCKFORD – State Senator Steve Stadelman advanced legislation through the Senate Judiciary Committee that keeps victims and survivors safe from their abusers by expanding the definition of stalking to include electronic tracking systems.

"As tracking devices become more popular, people are caught using them for the wrong reasons,” said Stadelman (D-Rockford).

With advances in technology, people are using electronic devices to keep track of their luggage, wallets and other personal belongings. However, people are also using them to stalk others.

Through Senate Bill 2683, Stadelman is working to change the Stalking No Contact Order Act to be consistent with the criminal definition of stalking. The new legislation would change the definition of “course of conduct” of stalking to include the use of an electronic tracking system to determine a person’s location, movement or travel patterns. The legislation would also allow judges to prohibit respondents from using electronic tracking systems and acquiring tracking information in a court order.