SPRINGFIELD - Two pieces of legislation introduced by State Senator Steve Stadelman to revive the declining local news industry are receiving national attention:

• “It is the most ambitious package of local journalism policy that I’ve seen,” said Anna Brugmann, policy director for the nonprofit Rebuild Local News, in an article published by Northwestern University's Local News Initiative and picked up by several trade organizations including the Poyner Institute.

• "States across the country are increasingly recognizing the need for legislation that corrects the current marketplace imbalance by requiring the tech platforms to fairly compensate publishers for the use of their valuable content,"  President and CEO Danielle Coffee said in an article headlined "News/Media Alliance Applauds Illinois Senator Steve Stadelman for Introducing Journalism Preservation Act."

ROCKFORD – State Senator Steve Stadelman announced that two organizations in Rockford have received funding through the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program.

“The extension of this program will increase access to good-paying jobs for underrepresented populations in our community,” said Stadelman (D-Rockford). “The needs of the workforce remains a priority of mine, so our continued investments into programs such as these are incredibly important.”

The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity awarded over $18 million in grants to 36 recipients through the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program, including $195,000 to Awaken Foundation LC3 and $440,000 to EDDR Foundation in Rockford. The program creates a diverse pool of talented and qualified candidates in construction and building trades, as well as helps participants to secure employment and establish a career in the field.

“It is of my utmost concern that our workforce is equipped with the resources and opportunities that they need to thrive and succeed,” said Stadelman. “This funding is a commitment to supporting our diverse and excellent workforce in Illinois.”

To learn more about the grant funding and program and view the full list of recipients, visit here.

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.