ROCKFORD – An additional $4 million has been provided by the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency for Rockford’s ongoing lead water line replacement, State Senator Steve Stadelman announced Friday.

“Replacing lead pipes in our community is essential for safeguarding public health,” Stadelman (D-Rockford) said. “Lead contamination poses serious health risks, particularly to children. This funding is a critical investment in clean, safe drinking water for all residents and protecting our future generations.”

The $4 million award is Rockford’s sixth from the IEPA State Revolving Fund, which provides low-interest loan funding for drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater projects. Rockford’s zero percent interest loan ensures the community does not incur interest fees while the loan is being repaid.

The IEPA has provided $122 million in funding for lead service line replacements since 2017. For resources on lead in your home, visit the IEPA website.

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.

BELVIDERE – State Senator Steve Stadelman applauded today's announcement of $334 million in federal funding for the Stellantis assembly plant as another example of the multi-level leadership that's saving local automaking jobs and strengthening Illinois' clean energy economy.

"Belvidere's assembly plant, which has been a driving force in the regional economy for decades, will not only reopen but will expand because of the cooperation of state, federal and local officials and labor leaders," Stadelman said. "The historic state incentive package I sponsored and passed provided a foundation that more than rescued the idled production facility. The manufacture of electric vehicles along with a battery plant and parts distribution center will make Belvidere an EV hub and bring more jobs to support families in Boone and Winnebago Counties."

Stadelman passed the Reimaging Energy and Vehicles Act that offered tax credits and other incentives for electric vehicle production in Illinois. Today's announcement involves a $334 million grant through the U.S. Department of Energy's Domestic Manufacturing Conversion program to encourage widespread adoption of zero-emission vehicles.

SPRINGFIELD – Consumers will now have protection against adverse medical debt reporting, thanks to a new law championed by State Senator Steve Stadelman.

“We have taken a crucial step to protect our residents from the undue hardships caused by medical debt,” said Stadelman (D-Rockford). “This is a positive step toward ensuring no one will have to suffer the long-term financial consequences of medical emergencies that are beyond their control. This law is about fairness and compassion, and it reflects our commitment to standing up for the rights of others”

The law aims to address the growing concern over the impact of medical debt on consumers’ credit scores. Medical debt, often incurred through no fault of the consumer, has been a leading cause of financial distress, disproportionately affecting vulnerable populations and hindering their access to credit and essential services.