
SPRINGFIELD – Park districts and counties will have greater access to state grants for shoreline restoration and protection starting Jan. 1, helping communities address costly environmental damage while easing pressure on local municipalities, under a law led by State Senator Laura Ellman.
“People often don’t realize how expensive shoreline damage can be until it turns into an emergency,” said Ellman (D- Naperville). “This gives communities a way to fix problems early, before those hidden costs fall on homeowners.”
Read more: Grant program to tackle shoreline restoration expanded under new Ellman law Jan. 1

SPRINGFIELD – In the new year, Illinois will have a more reliable and transparent funding source for the Department of Natural Resources’ Office of Water Resources and the critical work it does across the state thanks to State Senator Laura Ellman.
“This is about making sure our water dollars are doing what people expect them to do: protect our rivers, lakes and communities,” said Ellman (D-Naperville). “Clean water is a shared value, and this gives us the tools and funding to actually back that up.”
Read more: Illinois waterway funding strengthened under new Ellman law on Jan. 1

SPRINGFIELD – A new law taking effect Jan. 1 will make it easier for arboretums across Illinois to continue offering educational programs for young children without daycare regulations standing in the way, thanks to State Senator Laura Ellman.
“This commonsense update recognizes that arboretum programs aren’t full-time day care — they’re short, educational experiences that help kids learn and explore the natural world,” said Ellman (D-Naperville). “We’re keeping strong safety standards like background checks in place while making it easier for families to access these great programs.”
Read more: Ellman law cuts unnecessary red tape for youth programs on Jan. 1
SPRINGFIELD – Come Jan. 1, middle school students across Illinois will have the opportunity to get a head start on their high school education, thanks to a new law from State Senator Laura Ellman.
“Every student deserves a fair opportunity to succeed, no matter their ZIP code or classroom setting,” said Ellman (D-Naperville). “When we recognize students for their hard work and achievements, we open doors to confidence, preparation and long-term success.”
Read more: New Ellman law allows middle school students to earn high school credit
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