SPRINGFIELD – On Feb. 15, 2019, a mass shooting took place at Henry Pratt Company in Aurora. Within 90 minutes of the shooter’s arrival, five people had been killed by the gunman. Five police officers were injured along with another civilian. The Aurora Police Department began reviewing the case for opportunities to use their drones at events; over the next three years, a plan was formed.

On Wednesday, Aurora’s State Senator Linda Holmes brought the work of law enforcement agencies who studied how the use of drones could play a role in protecting the public in mass shooting events, and House Bill 3902 – the Drones as First Responders Act – was heard and passed in the Senate.

“This measure gives police and other first responders critical information in a chaotic situation where lives are at stake,” said Holmes (D-Aurora). “This capability could spare another community the suffering and trauma we experienced here.”

Creates a framework for the Illinois EPA to approve the use of limestone residual for additional means beyond what is currently permitted

SPRINGFIELD – Limestone quarries provide a number of products encountered every day: on our roads, in our homes and businesses, and in agriculture. One such lime product is used to treat drinking water and remove particulates. Assistant Majority Leader Linda Holmes is the sponsor of legislation to allow the return of the limestone residual back to a limestone mine after that use, projected to save the city an estimated $7 million over 10 years.

Paint Stewardship Act passes Senate

SPRINGFIELD – Many homeowners have something lurking in their basement or garage that could be disposed of, but there hasn’t been a means to get rid of it safely: unused household paint. Legislation sponsored by State Senator Linda Holmes that would establish a program to dispose of household paint passed the Senate on Friday.

The Paint Stewardship Act in Senate Bill 836 creates a means for consumers to dispose of household paint in Illinois. No state resources are in place today to deal with this waste. Under this law, manufacturers of architectural paint will create and submit a plan to the Illinois EPA to establish the program.

Aurora — To fight hunger in our communities, State Senator Linda Holmes is partnering with the Batavia Public Library to host a Food for the Whole Family Drive benefitting the Batavia Interfaith Food Pantry, as well as programs in Montgomery, Aurora and Geneva.

“Without access to free or reduced lunch options provided by the school, the summer months can be especially challenging for struggling families,” said Holmes (D-Aurora). “For those of us with extras in our cupboards, we can pitch in to help our neighbors. Food banks have seen more families in need, and we know in many cases, that means every member of the family including pets.”

From now until June 8, community members are encouraged to donate food, including pet food, at the following locations:

1. Village of Montgomery: 200 N. River St., Montgomery, IL 60538
2. Batavia Public Library: 10 S. Batavia Ave., Batavia, IL 60510
3. Aurora Public Library, West Branch: 233 S. Constitution Drive, Aurora, IL 60506
4. Sunset Community Center: 710 Western Ave., Geneva, IL 60134

Detailed lists of most-needed products are on the above graphic. For questions or additional information, contact Senator Holmes’ office at 630-820-8650.