SPRINGFIELD – As the number of overdoses continues to rise in Illinois and people fall victim to fentanyl-laced drugs, State Senator Laura Ellman is working to mitigate this critical issue with legislation that allows for free distribution of fentanyl test strips to the public.
“Fentanyl overdoses and fentanyl-laced drugs have been a longstanding issue across Illinois residents and families,” said Ellman (D-Naperville). “This legislation will help organizations make life-saving fentanyl testing available to all residents so they can avoid accidentally consuming fentanyl-laced substances.”
Currently, non-medical persons are authorized to administer naloxone to someone experiencing an opioid overdose under the Drug Overdose Prevention Program established by the Illinois Department of Human Services. Previous legislation permits pharmacists and retailers to sell fentanyl test strips over-the-counter and county health departments are able to distribute test strips to the public for no fee. Additionally, pharmacists, physicians, advanced practice registered nurses, physician assistants or their designee may distribute drug adulterant testing supplies to any person without being prosecuted.
Read more: Ellman to mitigate the fentanyl overdose crisis with free fentanyl test strips
NAPERVILLE – $460,000 in funding is coming to a Lisle nonprofit agency to expand access to reliable transportation for people with disabilities thanks to support from State Senator Laura Ellman.
“Expanding the list of organizations that are able to provide their most vulnerable residents with essential resources, like safe transportation services, is an important measure that will improve the level of care for years to come,” said Ellman (D-Naperville). “As a local nonprofit agency, Ray Graham Association will be able to expand their capacity to serve individuals with disabilities, offering them increased accessibility and independence.”
Through the Consolidated Vehicle Procurement Program, administered by the Illinois Department of Transportation, more than 500 paratransit vehicles valued at $57.1 million have been awarded to 113 transit providers. The vehicles will be delivered to public transportation providers as well as nonprofit organizations serving seniors and individuals with disabilities.
Read more: Ellman announces $460k coming to Lisle to expand transportation access for the disabled
SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency announced it will continue its investment in the Lead Service Line Inventory Grant Program with a fourth round of funding — an investment that State Senator Laura Ellman says will preserve the health of both residents and the environment.
“I am pleased to see the Illinois EPA continuing their proactive approach to mitigating the prevalence of harsh contaminants like lead in our water supply,” said Ellman (D-Naperville). “This next round of funding will allow communities to build on their current progress toward streamlining accessible clean water. I encourage communities to apply for this indispensable funding opportunity.”
Under the Lead Service Line Replacement and Notification Act, owners and operators of community water supplies in Illinois are required to submit a complete water service line material inventory to Illinois EPA for approval by April 15, 2024. A detailed inventory will allow communities to prioritize and strategize the replacement of known lead service lines within their water distribution system.
Read more: Ellman applauds Illinois EPA’s investment in lead service line grant program
SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Laura Ellman supports the continued efforts to increase representation by women in technology positions, and has therefore advanced new legislation that establishes a task force to assist with the recruiting and support of women in this field.
“Technology is a fast-growing field, and needs qualified professionals to guide us through ever-changing advancements,” said Ellman (D-Naperville). “This legislation aims to provide women qualified for these technology positions an opportunity to join this field and succeed.”
Senate Bill 2682 creates the Women in Technology Task Force and includes guidelines for the appointments, meetings, duties, and overview of the task force. The goal of this legislation is to increase the representation of women in jobs based around technology.
Read more: Ellman moves to expand opportunities for women in the technology workforce
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