SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Laura Ellman expressed her support Wednesday for investments in the environment included in Gov. JB Pritzker’s proposed budget.

The proposed budget directs $263.8 million in federal Inflation Reduction Act dollars to offer Illinois households energy efficiency rebates.

“Illinoisans have witnessed record high energy bills in recent years,” said Ellman (D-Naperville). “I applaud the governor for addressing the concerns of Illinoisans by proposing funding for a timely energy efficiency rebate. The rebate can potentially increase the usage of energy efficient materials and in turn positively impact our environment.”

The proposed budget increases funding for the Clean Air Act and Energy Transition Act by $2 million, including expenses for air permitting and inspections.

“Large-dollar increases toward ensuring clean air in Illinois is the progress needed to curb the unfortunate effects of climate change,” said Ellman. “Energy efficiency is a key component of impactful climate change, ensuring a bountiful environment for future generations.”

The proposed budget also includes a $250 million investment toward a new early childhood education program – a plan to prepare children to be lifelong learners – and an increase in MAP grants – a program to make college more attainable.

“Advancements in early childhood care overall support Illinois workers and families,” said Ellman. “I look forward to working with the governor and my colleagues this legislative session to negotiate a budget that makes the most meaningful impact on our environment.”

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Laura Ellman was sworn into office Wednesday to represent Illinois’ 21^st Senate District.

“I’m overjoyed at the prospect of serving Illinois’ 21^st Senate District again and I remain committed to serving my constituents and gaining wisdom through experience,” said Ellman (D-Naperville). “My work always begins with constituents and families and ends with positive advancements for all Illinois residents.”

During the 102^nd General Assembly, Ellman passed two constituent service initiatives into law: one being House Bill 4664 which prevents insurers from charging higher out-of-pocket costs to residents seeking out-of-network health care services due the moral objections of their usual health care provider, the other being Senate Bill 3786 which designated Dolostone as Illinois’ official state rock. Senator Ellman also advanced legislation to combat the opioid epidemic and legislation aimed to make Illinois a regional leader as a hydrogen hub.

The 103^rd General Assembly marks Ellman’s second term serving as Senator for the 21^st District, which includes parts of Glen Ellyn, Lombard, Downers Grove, Bolingbrook, Lisle, Naperville, Warrenville and Wheaton.

“I am proud of the work my colleagues and I were able to accomplish so far,” said Ellman. “There is still much work to be done and I am excited to build on the productive measures we passed during the previous legislative session.”

Constituents can contact Ellman by visiting www.SenatorLauraEllman.com or by making an appointment at her new district office at 24W500 Maple Ave., Suite 215, Naperville, IL 60540.

SPRINGFIELD – In an effort to advocate for reproductive health, State Senator Laura Ellman supported a new measure that ensures access to reproductive health care for Illinois residents and prevents insurers from charging higher out-of-pocket costs to residents seeking out-of-network health care services.

"There are many circumstances in which someone would decide to seek an out-of-network provider for potentially lifesaving reproductive health care,” said Ellman (D- Naperville). “Illinois residents seeking health care services should not be financially penalized if they are forced to seek an out-of-network provider due the moral objections of their usual health care provider.”

In addition to financial protections when seeking out-of-network health care due the moral objections of their usual health care provider, House Bill 4664 protects access to reproductive health care services and offers legal protections for patients and health care providers who seek reproductive health care that is lawful in Illinois.

Under current law, Illinois residents have the right to make their own decisions about their reproductive health care. Additionally, health care providers are permitted to implement reproductive health care procedures until the point of viability and after if necessary for the health of the patient.

“Adequate financial and legal protections for both patients and health care workers is indispensable in this day and age,” said Ellman. “These protections will ensure the reproductive health of current and future Illinois residents.”

The measure is similar to a California law that protects patients and health care providers from out-of-state laws suggesting criminal and civil liability for assisting and seeking reproductive health care procedures that are illegal in other states.

House Bill 4664 passed the Illinois Senate and awaits further consideration in the Illinois House.

###

This holiday season, my office will be collecting healthy grocery and personal care items to benefit Loaves & Fishes Community Services. Together with our food drive partners Lisle Park District and Wheatland Township Illinois, we have three drop box locations for your donations. Join us by contributing some of the most needed items, which can be found here: https://rb.gy/3batt1.