SPRINGFIELD – A new law championed by State Senator Steve Stadelman will combat Illinois’ shrinking newsrooms and support aspiring journalists.

“Local journalism is the heartbeat of our communities, shining a light on local issues in a way corporate media isn’t interested in,” said Stadelman (D-Rockford). “By requiring notice prior to the sale of a local news organization, we are creating an opportunity to protect the livelihoods of employees and preserving the continuity of community-focused journalism.”

To address the steady decline of local journalism, Stadelman’s law requires local news organizations to notify its employees and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity 120 days before the organization is sold. The goal is to give other businesses, newspapers and nonprofits the opportunity to acquire the publication, preserving local journalism and preventing its sale to a private equity firm.

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.