SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Mary Edly-Allen worked with multiple statewide education stakeholders to pass a law that will address unnecessary and burdensome Illinois School Code mandates.

“Public school teachers play a critical role in shaping our young minds and preparing them for the future,” said Edly-Allen (D-Libertyville). “The School Code Mandate Reduction Council will begin evaluating the 699 mandates introduced since 1982 – an essential step toward improving our laws to fit with the evolving education landscape.”

SPRINGFIELD – Recording artists will soon have more protections from artificial intelligence (AI) replicating their voice or work under a new law from State Senator Mary Edly-Allen and State Representative Jennifer Gong-Gershowitz.

“We need strong regulations and protections in place to safeguard artists when people try to steal their work and pass it off as their own using artificial intelligence,” said Edly-Allen (D-Libertyville). “This law was made to clarify existing rules, using language approved by both the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) and the Motion Picture Association (MPA).”

SPRINGFIELD – According to the Food Allergy Research & Education organization (FARE), 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 – The use of therapy dogs to aid people struggling with PTSD and anxiety has steadily increased nationwide. Over 50,000 therapy dogs are in service today. State Senator Mary Edly-Allen championed a law that will increase the number of therapy dogs available during times of crisis.

“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.”