Illinois
Illinois House Passes Legislation Holding Rideshare Services Liable For Passenger Safety
The Illinois Home of Representatives handed laws earlier this week that may maintain rideshare companies liable within the occasion that somebody is injured or attacked throughout a visit.
The laws is an modification to the present Transportation Community Suppliers Act, eliminating provisions {that a} “transportation community”, resembling Uber or Lyft, should not equal to a taxicab affiliation and subsequently can’t be held liable within the occasion of an incident.
The modification to the invoice handed the Illinois Home on a 73-36 vote, with the measure dealing with some opposition from the chamber’s Republicans.
Based on NBC affiliate WAND, one Home Democrat stated rideshare drivers have been combating for this variation, saying the invoice establishes duty for the widely-used companies.
“This specific invoice, which I consider is essential, establishes the obligation of care on Lyft and Uber and the big firms who’re making a number of tens of millions of {dollars} off of individuals driving in their very own vehicles at their very own expense,” Urbana Democrat Carol Ammons stated.
GOP Home members argued the change was pointless, with one Decatur Republican saying the proposal was attacking the free market whereas stating that he takes rideshare companies typically and believes the drivers take sufficient care of passengers, in accordance with WAND.
“In the event that they did not, they would not be doing what they’re doing,” Rep Dan Caulkins stated. “They would not be in enterprise for very lengthy. That driver would get poor scores and nobody would hail them. That is one other assault on the free market.”
The measure passes the identical week because the physique of a 21-year-old girl who was lacking since January was recovered in Little Village. The girl, Rosa Chacon, was final seen alive whereas coming into an Uber automobile not removed from the place her physique was discovered.
The laws now heads to the Illinois Senate for additional consideration. Shall the measure move the Senate, the invoice’s modification will head to the desk of Gov. Pritzker to signal into legislation.
Illinois
Governor signs bill to help Illinois with large medical debt
Governor JB Pritzker has signed a pair of bills aimed at helping Illinoisans get out from under medical debt.
Capitol News Illinois reports lawmakers passed the legislation – which allows the state to partner with a non-profit organization to buy the debt for cheap – earlier this spring. The state’s new budget allocates ten million dollars for the program.
Speaking on C-N-I’s Illinois Lawmakers program last week, Pritzker said it’ll ease a strain for many Illinoisans.
The medical debt elimination is just one part of the legislative package – Pritzker also signed a bill that prevents credit agencies from factoring medical debt into a person’s credit rating.
Pritzker has signed more than 50 bills this week.
Illinois
Beadle: Here’s to ‘having fun while winning’ at the United Way of Central Illinois
As I prepare to transition out of my role as Board Chair for the United Way of Central Illinois, I can’t help but feel a mix of emotions.
Pride, gratitude, and excitement for the future all swirl together as I look back on the 2024-2025 year and forward to what lies ahead. Throughout my tenure, I’ve always believed in “having fun while winning,” and I’m pleased to say that this past year has embodied that philosophy in every way.
When I stepped into the role of Board Chair, I knew we faced significant challenges. The lingering effects of the pandemic, economic uncertainties, and evolving community needs all demanded our attention and innovative solutions. But I also saw tremendous opportunity – a chance to show how United Way serves Central Illinois and make a lasting impact on the lives of our neighbors.
From day one, our board and staff embraced a spirit of collaboration and creativity. We set ambitious goals, not just in terms of fundraising, but in how we could truly move the needle on pressing issues like education, financial stability, and health. Looking back, I’m amazed at what we’ve accomplished together.
One of our proudest achievements was the Annual Meeting Experience. By telling Bethany’s empowering story, we were able to see the impact that United Way has on the community. Bethany’s story is one of hope and potential. United Way funding provided a path for Bethany to lift herself up. She is thriving today because of the community support she received along the way.
Of course, none of this would have been possible without the incredible generosity of our donors and the tireless efforts of our volunteers. I’m continually humbled by the way Central Illinois shows up for its community. Whether it was through our workplace giving campaign or the numerous hours donated during our Day of Action events, the spirit of collaboration and compassion was palpable.
As I reflect on the past year, I’m reminded of the countless moments that brought a smile to my face. We were always able to find ways to infuse fun into our mission-driven work. These moments of levity and connection weren’t just about boosting morale; they fueled our creativity and strengthened our bonds as a team.
Now, as I prepare to hand over the reins to Tammy Gilchrese, our incoming Board Chair, I’m filled with optimism for the future of United Way of Central Illinois. The foundation we’ve built over the past year is strong, and I have no doubt that the organization will continue to thrive and innovate in service of our community under her leadership.
My journey with United Way is far from over, though. I’m excited to step into my new role as Board Development Chair, where I’ll have the opportunity to help shape the future leadership of our organization. Cultivating diverse, passionate, and skilled board members is crucial to United Way’s long-term success, and I’m eager to bring my “having fun while winning” mentality to this important work.
In this new capacity, I’ll focus on identifying and recruiting individuals who not only bring valuable expertise but also share our commitment to creating lasting change in Central Illinois. We’ll work on enhancing board engagement, providing meaningful development opportunities, and ensuring that our leadership reflects the rich diversity of our community.
As I look ahead, I see so much potential for United Way to grow and evolve. The challenges facing our community are complex, but I’ve witnessed firsthand the power of collective impact. By continuing to foster innovation, embrace collaboration, and yes, have a little fun along the way, I believe we can create a brighter future for all in Central Illinois.
To my fellow board members, our dedicated staff, our generous donors, and our tireless volunteers – thank you. Your passion, creativity, and unwavering commitment to improving lives have made this past year truly exceptional. As I transition to my new role, I carry with me countless memories and a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to serve alongside such remarkable individuals.
The work of United Way is never done, but with each life we touch and each positive change we create, we move closer to our vision of a thriving community for all. As we continue this journey together, let’s remember to celebrate our victories, learn from our challenges, and always find joy in the important work we do.
Here’s to another year of “having fun while winning” – because when United Way wins, our entire community wins. The best is yet to come for Central Illinois, and I can’t wait to see what we’ll accomplish next.
Amy Beadle is the Marketing Manager at Visit Springfield Illinois. Find out more about United Way on their website uwcil.org or on their social media pages.
Illinois
Biden says he’ll stay in 2024 race while Illinois rep calls for him to step aside
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