SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Linda Holmes (D-Aurora) passed a law to create the Broadband Advisory Council to study expanding broadband access in Illinois.

“Broadband access has become a critical means of access to the world for growth, learning and business,” Holmes said. “This resource is now as necessary as utilities for our communities, and we need to explore all opportunities to expand this critical resource to areas not yet being served.”

SPRINGFIELD – Young people in Illinois now have increased access to information about human papillomavirus (HPV) under a measure sponsored by State Senator Linda Holmes (D – Aurora) that became law today.

Under previous law, schools were only required to provide HPV information to female students entering the 6th grade. The new law requires schools to ensure that all students, both male and female, receive the necessary information.

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Linda Holmes (D-Aurora) released the statement below after the United States Supreme Court ruled that public sector employers will no longer have to pay for the workplace benefits and protections unions bargain for on their behalf.

“Today’s Supreme Court ruling was a direct attack on the ability of teachers, firefighters and police officers to collectively bargain for fair wages and safe working environments. It is a truly disappointing decision meant to help corporate interests at the expense of working men and women.

“Now, more than ever, I remain committed in my steadfast support of organized labor. Despite this unfortunate setback, together, we can still join with organized labor to fight for fair wages and safe working environments for middle-class workers.”

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SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Linda Holmes (D-Aurora) passed legislation through the Illinois Senate to ensure that victims’ voices are heard during plea agreements, in juvenile cases or when the defendant is found not guilty due to insanity.  

The proposal came from the Illinois Attorney General’s office, who believes courts do not consistently allow crime victims to testify.

“The victims affected by these criminals deserve to have their voices heard during the sentencing process,” Holmes said. “As the affected party, we need to ensure their opinions are not silenced.”

Currently, victims and prosecutors are not given notice of status hearings where information is provided to the court. As a result, they may not be prepared to proceed in a way that adequately protects the victims’ rights.

Holmes’ proposal, House Bill 5573, passed the Illinois Senate with a vote of 49-0. It has now passed both chambers of the General Assembly and will head to the governor’s desk for consideration.