Fighting for Affordable Childcare for Working Families
This week, I had the honor of holding my first press conference as your State Senator to talk about an issue deeply personal to me, affordable, reliable childcare.
As the daughter of a single mom who worked two jobs to make ends meet, I’ve seen the tough choices parents face. That’s why I’m committed to making childcare more accessible for families in our community.
I introduced two bills, Senate Bill 2277 and Senate Bill 2382, as part of a broader plan to tackle Illinois’ childcare crisis. Senate Bill 2277 increases tax credits for businesses that provide childcare, and Senate Bill 2382 offers a new credit to companies that donate property for onsite childcare centers.
Nearly 60% of Illinoisans live in a childcare desert, and 3.9 million in the suburbs are impacted. This isn’t just a personal issue; it’s an economic one.
I’m proud to fight for real, pro-family, pro-business solutions, and grateful to start my journey as your Senator by standing up for something that means so much to me.
“Andrew’s Law” Proposed to Strengthen Protections Against Child Predators
I’m proud to co-sponsor Senate Bill 284, legislation inspired by the heartbreaking story of Michelle Peterson and her son, Andrew, who was the victim of grooming. No parent should ever have to watch their child suffer because our laws aren’t strong enough to hold predators accountable.
This bill takes important steps to close dangerous loopholes in Illinois’ criminal code by prohibiting plea deals for individuals charged with grooming, human trafficking, or involuntary sexual servitude of a minor. It also strengthens protections by restricting where convicted child sex offenders can be present, specifically banning them from spaces designed for kids, like schools and youth centers.
Other states, like Florida, Iowa, Arizona, Georgia, and most recently Montana, have already acted. Now it is time for Illinois. Senate Bill 284 and its companion, House Bill 1140, known as Andrew’s Law, are currently awaiting committee assignment. I’m committed to seeing this legislation move forward, and I’ll continue working to ensure that survivors and their families see justice.
An Update on My Bll to Protect Children From Sex Offenders
I’m proud to share that Senate Bill 238, my legislation to strengthen protections for minor, passed out of committee and is now heading to the Senate floor for a vote. This bill would require individuals who secretly record children in private spaces with clear sexual motivation to register as sex offenders. As a former prosecutor and advocate for families, I’m committed to making sure our laws reflect the seriousness of these offenses and give law enforcement the tools they need to keep kids safe.
