Majority Report

Villivalam advances measure that would regulate the use of micromobility devices in an effort to make safety meet innovation

SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Ram Villivalam spearheaded a measure through the Senate that would establish regulations for the use of toy vehicles, motor-driven bicycles and other small, low-speed electric mobility devices in Illinois.

“E-bikes and other increasingly popular micromobility devices are being utilized by our neighbors. While these devices provide more accessibility for our residents, they have also led to tragic accidents,” said Villivalam (D-Chicago). “It is imperative that we implement safeguards to ensure that everyone who uses a micromobility device is able to do so in a safe way.”

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Senate approves Feigenholtz bill to expand law enforcement training on hate crimes

SPRINGFIELD — Chicago’s North Side communities have experienced a steady rise in hate-related incidents in recent years, particularly those directed toward the Jewish community. A critical step in bringing justice to victims and swift punishment to perpetrators is the recorded documentation of hate-related incidents, leading State Senator Sara Feigenholtz to champion a plan that would ensure law enforcement officers are better trained to identify hate crimes in Illinois.

“Hate crimes are rising to unprecedented levels right in our own backyards — underscoring how important it is for law enforcement to be equipped to properly handle each situation,” said Feigenholtz (D-Chicago). “Expanding training for officers will allow them to fully understand and tackle the scope of the problem, strengthening community safety and fostering an environment where all neighbors feel respected.”

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Preston measure expands speech therapy coverage for stuttering

SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Willie Preston is spearheading a measure that would require health insurance companies to provide coverage for rehabilitative speech therapy as a treatment for stuttering.

“Stuttering is something that a lot of people deal with, especially children,” said Preston (D-Chicago). “I want to make sure those people do not have to go through their speech troubles on their own and can get the help they need.”

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