Welcome to Senator Mary Edly-Allen Legislative Website

Edly-Allen bill aims to strengthen survivor rights in sexual assault investigations

SPRINGFIELD – According to the RAINN, only 310 out of every 1,000 sexual assaults are reported to police, underscoring the need to build trust and improve survivor experiences within the justice system. To address this critical issue, State Senator Mary Edly-Allen is advancing new legislation aimed to improve how survivors of sexual assault are supported during the criminal justice process.

“Survivors deserve to feel safe, respected and fully supported when they are coming forward,” said Edly-Allen (D-Grayslake). “House Bill 4394 is about making sure survivors know their rights and have some control in a moment where so much has already been taken from them.”

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New Edly-Allen measure aims to strengthen play-based learning advances

SPRINGFIELD – Children in play-based learning environments show stronger language skills, cognitive and social development than their peers in more challenging academic settings, according to the National Association for the Education of Young Children, a finding that is driving new efforts in Illinois to strengthen early education. State Senator Mary Edly-Allen is working to advance new legislation to reinforce those practices in classrooms across the state.

“As an educator and parent, I have seen firsthand how powerful play can be in helping children develop confidence, curiosity and a love of learning,” said Edly-Allen (D- Grayslake). “By clearly defining play-based learning, we are giving educators the tools they need to create classrooms where children can explore, grow and build the foundational skills that set them up for long-term success.”

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Edly-Allen welcomes new operator for North Point Marina, securing upcoming 2026 season

WINTHROP HARBOR – With nearly one million visitors each year and hundreds of local jobs tied to its success, North Point Marina is a cornerstone of Northeast Illinois’ tourism economy. Following concerns about a potential closure, state and local leaders including State Senator Mary Edly-Allen have collaborated to secure a new operating agreement to keep the marina open for the 2026 boating season.

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources has announced that SkipperBud’s will serve as the new operator of North Point Marina in Winthrop Harbor, ensuring continued access to one of the region’s most important recreational and economic assets.

“When stakeholders such as government officials and community members collaborate effectively, we achieve more for Illinoisans,” said Edly-Allen (D-Grayslake). “Thank you to all who collaborated on a solution for our entire community.”

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Edly-Allen advances AI safety transparency to protect minors and prevent harm

SPRINGFIELD – A 2024 survey found over 60% of teens use artificial intelligence (AI) tools regularly, raising concerns about exposure to harmful content and unsafe interactions. With AI rapidly shaping daily life, State Senator Mary Edly-Allen proposed new legislation to ensure stronger safeguards for minors and the public.

“Companies are moving quickly to deploy increasingly powerful AI systems, driven by incentives for speed, scale and market dominance. But the incentives to ensure safety, especially for our children, are not keeping pace,” said Edly-Allen (D-Grayslake). “Power has to be matched with wisdom and accountability. If companies are developing powerful AI tools, they need to take responsibility for how those tools impact people, especially children and we need to act urgently.”  

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