SPRINGFIELD – The work of Senator Linda Holmes (D-Aurora) and an Electronic Notarization Task Force produced a report detailing the benefits for Illinoisans that was provided to the governor and General Assembly, and its findings led to a measure sponsored by Holmes that has been signed by the governor on Friday.

Senate Bill 2664 sets standards for appointment as an electronic notary, creates definitions for electronic notarization; codifies best practices of the National Association of Notaries for electronic notarization; and implements safeguards to ensure the integrity of the technology and the process of electronic notarization.

“I was convinced this was a step to update a process many people use but sometimes can’t find a notary nearby,” Holmes said. “Over the past year, the need for a convenient, protected method for notarization for businesses and consumers became even more obvious.”

AURORA — Assistant Majority Leader Linda Holmes (D-Aurora) invites local residents and friends to the Grand Opening of her new office in Aurora on Thursday, July 29 from 4-6 p.m.

“We moved our office during the middle of the pandemic, so this is our first chance to welcome everyone in safely,” Holmes said. “My staff is looking forward to greeting visitors at last.”

Local and state dignitaries are expected to join Holmes for an official ribbon cutting. Guests will be offered free ice cream for the celebration as well.

SPRINGFIELD –There are 17 pet stores in Illinois who offer installment contract loans for the purchase of a cat or dog. House Bill 572, sponsored by Senator Linda Holmes (D-Aurora) to prohibit the use of these loans, was signed into law Friday.

“This doesn’t just happen in payday loan stores, they’ve been getting away with predatory lending interest rates anywhere from 30 to 150% and higher,” Holmes said. “Most pet stores have issues with their animals coming from unprincipled breeders and puppy mills – some in poor condition – so these consumers can end up thousands in debt and grieving as well.”

SPRINGFIELD – An animal abuser has no place in a home with animals. State Senator Linda Holmes’ (D-Aurora) House Bill 168 has been signed into law by the governor, allowing a court to prohibit an animal abuser from owning or living with others who own animals.

“Anyone convicted of felony offenses like torture, mutilation and animal fighting should have no privilege to own or live with an animal for a reasonable period of time,” Holmes said. “Just as some people who are domestic violence perpetrators continue their behavior, animal abusers may have multiple offenses. No animal should be subjected to this cruelty.”