Illinois State Senator Laura Ellman

Illinois waterway funding strengthened under new Ellman law on Jan. 1

Details: Thursday, December 18, 2025 09:01 AM

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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.”

Ellman law cuts unnecessary red tape for youth programs on Jan. 1

Details: Wednesday, December 17, 2025 01:24 PM

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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.”

New Ellman law allows middle school students to earn high school credit

Details: Tuesday, December 16, 2025 09:28 AM

Senator Ellman speaking on the Senate floor

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.”

Ellman law to strengthen Illinois gun storage starting Jan. 1

Details: Monday, December 15, 2025 09:55 AM

SPRINGFIELD – With preventable tragedies involving unsecured guns increasingly impacting children and teens, State Senator Laura Ellman advanced a critical public-safety measure to strengthen Illinois’ firearm-storage requirements. The new law helps ensure firearms are safely secured and inaccessible to minors, vulnerable residents, and those who pose a public threat.

“For far too long, our communities have carried the heartbreak of preventable tragedies caused by unsecured firearms,” said Ellman (D-Naperville). “A firearm that’s left out or improperly stored isn’t just a hazard, it’s a threat to the safety of everyone in the home. Secure storage is one of the simplest and most effective ways gun owners can protect the people they love.”

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