Ellman expands fentanyl education efforts

SPRINGFIELD – High school students could soon be required to learn about the dangers of fentanyl thanks to a measure sponsored by State Senator Laura Ellman.

“Increasing awareness through education is an effective way to combat the ongoing opioid epidemic,” said Ellman (D-Naperville). “Educating high school students, hopefully before they are exposed to fentanyl, could mean all the difference between a dependency on addictive opioids and connection to a non-addictive medication.”

According to the Illinois Department of Public Health, a lethal dose of fentanyl is smaller than a drop of water. Opioids, including fentanyl, heroin, and other drugs such as hydrocodone or oxycodone, are involved in 70% of fatal drug overdoses.

Under current law, elementary and high school health classes are required to discuss consumer health, personal health habits, alcohol and drug use, but are not required to receive specific instruction on fentanyl or other synthetic opioids.

Read more: Ellman expands fentanyl education efforts

Ellman strives to protect renters from radon

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Laura Ellman passed a measure Wednesday to help reduce the threat of radon for property renters.

“This measure outlines a period of time where renters are allowed to test for radon,” said Ellman (D-Naperville). “The 90-day time period enables renters to test for radon and protect their families from the dangers of excessive radon.”

Radon, a natural occurring element, is not immediately produced or detectable. Illinois laws such as the Illinois Radon Awareness Act and the Illinois Real Property Disclosure Act offer protections for homebuyers and prospective buyers, but there are no current protections for renters.

“Proactive measures against this deadly gas are needed to decrease the onset of its harmful effects, which can include lung cancer,” said Ellman. “If radon exceeds limits, renters can seek mitigations to protect their families.”

House Bill 2217 passed the Senate Wednesday.

Ellman reveals DuPage Habitat for Humanity as grant recipient

NAPERVILLE – The DuPage Habitat for Humanity is set to receive $400,000 thanks to the Illinois Housing Development Authority’s Home Repair and Accessibility Program supported by State Senator Laura Ellman.

“Habitat for Humanity is known for building beautiful modernized homes for our most vulnerable community members,” said Ellman (D–Naperville). “I’m glad to see such a hardworking organization receive this funding to continue to be a treasured resource in DuPage County.”

The Home Repair and Accessibility Program is designed to assist low-income families by providing funds to manage health, safety, accessibility and energy efficiency repairs to their homes. Eligible homeowners may receive up to $45,000 to cover necessary repairs through a five-year forgivable loan.

Read more: Ellman reveals DuPage Habitat for Humanity as grant recipient

Ellman celebrates local tourism funding coming to the College of DuPage Foundation

NAPERVILLE – The College of DuPage Foundation is set to receive $53,000 to boost local tourism efforts, thanks to support from State Senator Laura Ellman.

“Funding for the arts has dwindled in recent years,” said Ellman (D-Naperville). “Art is a great way to attract tourists and invite them into the wonderful community of Glen Ellyn.”

The Illinois Travel and Tourism Grant Program awarded $2.9 million in funding to 51 local governments, municipalities and nonprofit agencies for the development of tourist attractions and events. Additionally, the state will be matching funds to offset marketing expenses for expenditures such as promotional materials and production costs.

Read more: Ellman celebrates local tourism funding coming to the College of DuPage Foundation