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.

Police in Cherry Valley will receive state funds to enforce Illinois laws that prohibit dangerous individuals from keeping firearms.

Cherry Valley Police can use its $11,120.03 award from the State Police Enforcement Fund to form enforcement details to focus on individuals who have become the subject of a Firearm Restraining Order, been declared a clear and present danger or been criminally convicted, among other reasons that would preclude possession of a firearm.

"We have enacted sensible laws in Illinois so that people who have made homicidal or suicidal threats or who otherwise demonstrate they pose danger to the public are not allowed to have firearms," Stadelman said. "Grants like this give local police the resources they need to enforce these important laws for keeping the public safe from gun violence."

Cherry Valley is among 21 police agencies to benefit from a third round of Illinois State Police firearm enforcement grants totaling $1.5 million.