SPRINGFIELD – To enhance protections for Illinois seniors and prevent abuse, State Senator Lakesia Collins’ new law will prohibit retaliatory action against nursing home residents.

“Nursing homes must be accountable to our most vulnerable residents, and with this law we can safeguard Illinois seniors from neglect,” said Collins (D-Chicago). “Seniors deserve a standard of living with dignity and respect.”

Under the new law, House Bill 2474, 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.

SPRINGFIELD – Continuing her support for mothers across Illinois, State Senator Lakesia Collins is leading a measure to give mothers enrolled in Medicaid better access to maternal health services.

“I know the hardships of being a new mother, and for those on Medicaid, having a doula by their side can be a lifeline,” said Collins (D-Chicago). “This is one more way Illinois can assist new moms and continues our commitment to expanding care to marginalized communities and those who rely on Medicaid.”

Under Senate Bill 2437, hospitals and birthing centers would be required to give patients enrolled in Medicaid the option to select a certified doula through the Illinois Medicaid-Certified Doula Program. Covered doula services can include counseling and support, newborn care, development of a birth plan, attendance at health care appointments, support during labor and delivery and more.

SPRINGFIELD - To assist community members and homeowners, State Senator Lakesia Collins advanced a measure Wednesday to provide guidance to law enforcement that simplifies the process for removing criminal trespassers from a person's home.

"For homeowners who have had to deal with squatters and those living on property without permission, this helps clarify the law," said Collins (D-Chicago). "Oftentimes, law enforcement is unclear about what to do about squatters and so the issue is often left to the eviction process. This legislation clarifies that squatters–who are trespassers–can be removed under the appropriate criminal trespass laws."

This legislation responds to local squatters who snuck into a home while the owner was away. Law enforcement told the owner that they could not remove the squatters and that the homeowner would need to file an eviction.

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Lakesia Collins (D-Chicago) released the following statement after the governor’s budget address Wednesday:

“The work that we have accomplished shows our unity in tackling the biggest problems in Illinois, and with the continued investments in job training programs and workforce development like Illinois Works, I am determined to advocate for Illinois youth and their access to education and programs that kickstart their economic foundation.

“We know we will have challenges coming from the federal government, but that should not stop our endeavors to unify and safeguard Illinois’ most vulnerable populations through health care and safety net investments that our communities rely on.

“I am hopeful we can come together to craft a budget that works for every community in Illinois. As I continue to collaborate with my colleagues, I am reminded every day of the working people who I represent as a mother and as a legislator. There is still work to be done to create a budget that is inclusive and meets the needs of our residents.”