SPRINGFIELD – In Illinois, 42% of women and 26% of men will face violence from an intimate partner. To ensure survivors are not further burdened at work, State Senator Mary Edly-Allen championed a new law to protect employees using workplace resources for documentation purposes.

“Survivors of domestic violence should not have to worry about workplace retaliation,” said Edly-Allen (D-Libertyville). “Survivors should not be penalized for protecting themselves. This law can — and will — save lives.”

SPRINGFIELD – According to the Food Allergy Research & Education organization, 33 million Americans have a food allergy, with the most common allergies including milk, tree nuts, shellfish and peanuts. To help those having an allergic reaction, Illinoisans will soon have easier access to epinephrine under a new law championed by State Senator Mary Edly-Allen and House Assistant Majority Leader Maurice West.

“Dillon’s Law is common-sense legislation that helps our communities become better equipped to help someone experiencing an allergic reaction,” said Edly-Allen (D-Libertyville). “If a person does not know they have an allergy, they may not have access to epinephrine, which is why this law could help save so many lives.”

SPRINGFIELD – Nationally, an estimated $2.8 billion worth of medications are wasted annually. State Senator Mary Edly-Allen partnered with State Representative Laura Faver Dias to champion a new law to provide Illinoisans with cheaper alternatives and transparency within the Illinois Drug Reuse Program.

“Medications can be ridiculously expensive, often leaving people to decide between rent, groceries or their life-saving medicine,” said Edly-Allen (D-Libertyville). “This law is critical to helping our most vulnerable communities and improves a well-established program that has helped countless Illinoisans.”

SPRINGFIELD – The use of therapy dogs to aid people struggling with PTSD and anxiety has steadily increased nationwide, with over 50,000 therapy dogs in service today. State Senator Mary Edly-Allen championed a law that will increase the number of therapy dogs available during times of crisis come Jan. 1.

“Therapy dogs have the ability to help reduce stress-induced trauma, bringing instant comfort and relief,” said Edly-Allen (D-Libertyville). “This law will improve officer wellness and make certified therapy K-9s more accessible to help those in a time of need.”