Press Releases

SPRINGFIELD – Studies find that work release programs can play a crucial role in reducing recidivism and promoting successful reentry for formerly incarcerated individuals. However, there is a lack of rehabilitation credit opportunities for individuals in pretrial detention, leading State Senator Laura Ellman to champion a new law, Senate Bill 3333.

“There are few greater contributions to society than empowering people through education and my hope is to see more opportunities being created to reduce recidivism and improve public safety in the long run,” said Ellman (D-Naperville). “While Illinois is a leading state in creating opportunities for incarcerated individuals, we still have many avenues we can improve.”

SPRINGFIELD — To help more students access globally focused learning opportunities, State Senator Laura Ellman is championing a new law modernizing the Illinois’ Global Scholar Certification program by recognizing new ways students demonstrate learning and competency.

“Students today are learning and demonstrating skills in more ways than ever before,” said Ellman (D-Naperville). “This law is about expanding access, not lowering standards, ensuring our programs reflect modern learning opportunities while maintaining the rigor and integrity of the Global Scholar Certification.”

SPRINGFIELD – To ensure that more students can get ahead academically while maintaining strong instructional standards, State Senator Laura Ellman championed a new law, House Bill 4239, that will expand access to high school-level coursework for seventh and eighth grade students.

“This is about removing confusion for schools and opening doors for students,” said Ellman (D-Naperville). “By providing more clarity, we are helping districts confidently offer more opportunities that challenge students and support their long-term success.”

SPRINGFIELD — A new law from State Senator Laura Ellman is set to give counties additional tools to support affordable housing development and address growing housing affordability challenges facing working families and middle-income residents.

“As housing costs continue to rise faster than incomes, more families are finding themselves priced out of the communities they work and live in,” said Ellman (D-Naperville). “This law will help local governments create more housing options while supporting mixed-income communities and long-term affordability.”