Illinois expands protections for nursing home residents, thanks to Collins
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CHICAGO – Residents of nursing homes across Illinois now have additional protections thanks to a law championed by State Senator Lakesia Collins that bans retaliation against nursing home residents.
“In assisted living, folks rely on their caregivers and staff to help with day-to-day tasks, and they shouldn’t be fearful of speaking out when something isn’t right,” said Collins (D-Chicago). “This law gives seniors the respect they deserve, expands and protects their rights, and gives them more opportunities to seek justice.”
Under Collins’ law, nursing homes are prohibited from retaliating against a resident who is exercising their rights. If a resident faces retaliation, they are able to file a civil suit against the nursing home and potentially recover damages.
Read more: Illinois expands protections for nursing home residents, thanks to Collins
Collins law giving nurse midwives more independence, flexibility now in effect
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SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Lakesia Collins championed a law that will improve birth care in maternal health deserts by giving certified nurse midwives more independence and greater flexibility to practice in underserved areas.
“This law gives Illinois nurse midwives more flexibility and opportunities to collaborate and deliver care,” said Collins (D-Chicago). “We are modernizing the rules for providers to give residents greater access to care and assistance in our communities.”
Previously, certified nurse midwives were required to collaborate formally with a physician to practice at full scope, which created a barrier as more than one-third of Illinois counties lack sufficient maternity care. Under Collins’ law, House Bill 2688, CNMs are now able to provide out-of-hospital birth services at licensed birth centers without the need for a formal collaboration agreement, as long as they have permission from the birth center’s clinical director.
Read more: Collins law giving nurse midwives more independence, flexibility now in effect
Collins law expands property tax relief for seniors
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SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Lakesia Collins spearheaded a property tax relief package that was signed into law Friday, increasing property tax exemption thresholds for senior citizens in Illinois.
“Seniors have a lot on their plate to deal with from health care to home care, and property taxes should not be on that list,” said Collins (D-Chicago). “Expanding the number of seniors who qualify for relief ensures seniors in our neighborhoods can stay in our neighborhoods.”
The new law, Senate Bill 642, will deliver critical updates to help seniors on fixed incomes and help families facing economic challenges manage rising property tax costs. Under the measure, the maximum income limit for the Low-Income Senior Citizens Assessment Freeze Homestead Exemption will increase substantially over the next several years, beginning at $75,000 for taxable year 2026, increasing to $77,000 for taxable year 2027 and settling at $79,000 for taxable year 2028 and beyond.
Read more: Collins law expands property tax relief for seniors
Collins stresses the need to protect Illinois families from SNAP benefit shutdown
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CHICAGO – State Senator Lakesia Collins is calling on federal lawmakers to protect food assistance benefits that nearly two million Illinois residents rely on by resolving the ongoing government shutdown to prevent the cessation of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, known as SNAP, come Nov. 1.
“This is an urgent issue that will impact nearly two million Illinois residents,” said Collins (D-Chicago). “Families from every corner of our state rely on support from SNAP. Illinois residents will be feeling the loss of these benefits as they figure out how to put food on the table during this trying time.”
SNAP provides critical support for children, seniors, veterans and individuals with disabilities, offering the nutrition they need to live healthy, productive lives. The federal government shutdown threatens to halt these benefits immediately, putting millions at risk of food insecurity – including the 57,948 residents of the 5th District who rely on SNAP benefits.
Read more: Collins stresses the need to protect Illinois families from SNAP benefit shutdown
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