SPRINGFIELD – According to Saint Augustine’s University, investing in water infrastructure delivers compelling returns: every $1 spent on water and sanitation generates $4 in benefits, with improved health, education and labor productivity. With this in mind, State Senator Laura Ellman is advancing new legislation to make water infrastructure projects more efficient and cost-effective across Illinois.

“Our water systems are the foundation of our communities,” said Ellman (D-Naperville). “By giving water commissions’ access to modern project delivery tools, we can improve quality, save taxpayer dollars, and get critical projects done more efficiently.”

SPRINGFIELD – Studies find that work release programs can play a crucial role in reducing recidivism and promoting successful reentry for formerly incarcerated individuals. However, there is a lack of rehabilitation credit opportunities for individuals in pretrial detention, leading State Senator Laura Ellman to advance Senate Bill 3333.

“Rehabilitation programs are one of the most effective tools we have to reduce recidivism and support successful reentry,” said Ellman (D-Naperville). “If someone takes the initiative to improve their life by participating in programs that build skills and strengthen families, that effort should be recognized no matter where they are being held.”

SPRINGFIELD – With nearly one in 10 Americans lacking health insurance coverage according to the U.S. Census Bureau, State Senator Laura Ellman is working to advance legislation to ensure Illinois residents are not locked out of coverage due to past-due premium payments.

“Health care coverage shouldn’t be out of reach for someone simply because they’ve fallen behind on a previous payment,” said Ellman. “This legislation is about protecting access to care and making sure families can get insured when they need it most.”

SPRINGFIELD – Nearly 90% of Illinois’ public water systems rely on groundwater as a primary or supplemental source, leading State Senator Laura Ellman to convene a subject matter hearing on Thursday, bringing together stakeholders and experts to begin a broader conversation on groundwater governance across the state.

“Groundwater is one of our most critical yet often overlooked natural resources,” said Ellman (D-Naperville). “This subject matter hearing is an important first step in understanding the risks that lie below the surface, and how we can build a more sustainable, data-driven framework to help ensure clean water is available in the near term and beyond.”