News

GLEN ELLYN – State Senator Laura Ellman recently announced the Village of Glen Ellyn School Districts 41, 89 and 87 will receive a $100,000 Safe Routes to School grant to develop a Community Travel Plan aimed at improving safe biking and walking routes for local students.

“This investment will help Glen Ellyn create safer, more connected routes for students and families walking or biking to school,” said Ellman (D-Naperville). “When communities prioritize safe sidewalks, crossings and transportation planning around schools, we’re not only improving safety, we’re encouraging healthier lifestyles and strengthening neighborhood connections.”

SPRINGFIELD – According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, suicide was the second leading cause of death among people ages 10-14 and 25-34 in the United States, underscoring growing concerns about the role online platforms and AI systems can play in vulnerable users’ mental health crises. To increase protections aimed at preventing self-harm, State Senator Laura Ellman advanced legislation to establish safety standards for artificial intelligence companion chatbots, including sexually explicit interactions with minors.

“As artificial intelligence becomes more personal and conversational, we have a responsibility to ensure these systems are not exploiting vulnerability or putting users, especially young people, in harm’s way,” said Ellman (D-Naperville). “AI companions are being marketed as emotional supports and trusted confidants, but without safeguards, these systems can reinforce dangerous behavior or fail to intervene during moments of crisis.”

SPRINGFIELD – Accurate gender identification is essential for daily life, yet, for many transgender individuals, barriers remain. To strengthen privacy protections, State Senator Laura Ellman is advancing House Bill 5095 to codify Illinois’ existing policy, allowing gender marker updates on IDs through self-attestation.

“An ID should never put someone in a vulnerable position,” said Ellman (D-Naperville). “This ensures people can safely and accurately reflect who they are.”

SPRINGFIELD – According to the American Heart Association, women are 27% less likely than men to receive bystander CPR, often due to hesitation or misconceptions about performing aid. To address this, State Senator Laura Ellman is championing a new initiative at improving CPR training in Illinois school.

“Students should feel confident stepping in during an emergency, no matter who needs help,” said Ellman (D-Naperville). “When someone’s life is on the line, hesitation can cost everything. More inclusive, realistic CPR training helps people act quickly and save lives.”