Karina’s Law signed to protect domestic violence survivors thanks to Villanueva

• Karina's Law
• Violence prevention

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Celina Villanueva’s transformative measure aimed at safeguarding survivors of domestic violence has been signed into law.  Karina’s Law enables the swift confiscation of firearms from individuals subject to emergency restraining orders, addressing critical gaps that have left survivors at risk.

“This law reflects our unwavering commitment to safeguarding survivors when they need it most,” said Villanueva (D-Chicago). “Karina’s Law empowers law enforcement to act decisively, preventing tragedies and honoring the memory of Karina and Daniela.”

Read more: Karina’s Law signed to protect domestic violence survivors thanks to Villanueva

Villanueva passes Karina’s Law to protect domestic violence survivors

• Karina's Law
• HB 4144

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Celina Villanueva passed Karina’s Law, a groundbreaking measure designed to enhance protections for survivors of domestic violence by allowing for the prompt confiscation of firearms from individuals subject to emergency restraining orders. The legislation, named in honor of Karina Gonzalez and her daughter Daniela, addresses critical gaps in current laws that left survivors vulnerable to harm.

“Today, we honor Karina and Daniela by taking decisive action to protect domestic violence survivors,” said Villanueva (D-Chicago). “Karina’s Law ensures that firearms are removed from the hands of abusers when survivors need protection the most. This legislation is a life-saving step forward for Illinois families.”

Read more: Villanueva passes Karina’s Law to protect domestic violence survivors

Villanueva protects warehouse workers

• warehouse worker protections act
• HB 2547

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Celina Villanueva passed a measure strengthening warehouse worker protections by ensuring employers are disclosing the quotas are required to meet.

“Every warehouse worker deserves a safe workplace where meeting quotas doesn’t come at the cost of their health,” said Senator Villanueva (D-Chicago). “Stronger protections ensure that productivity never outweighs people.”

House Bill 2547 would require warehouse employers to provide a written description of any quota and any potential adverse employment action upon the employee's hire date and anytime the quota is changed. Each time that quota changes, the employer must provide an updated description within five business days of the change. This bill addresses the lack of transparency in non-union warehouses, where workers face "invisible clocks" and constant threats of discipline or termination, resulting in physical injuries and extreme mental stress.

“We can have efficiency without exploitation,” said Villanueva. “By strengthening protections, we create a system where workers and businesses thrive together.”

House Bill 2547 passed the Senate Sunday.

Illinois Latino Caucus releases the following statement

CHICAGO — The Illinois Legislative Latino Caucus issued the following statement:

“At a time when people across our country are seeking unity in the wake of political division, extremists are offering nothing but fear and intimidation.

“Our greatest safety is in community. As leaders of this state, we pledge to use every tool at our disposal — legislative, legal, and otherwise — to protect our immigrant families from the threat of mass deportation. We will not be intimidated and will not allow our communities to live in fear. As the saying goes, el pueblo unido, jamás será vencido — the people united will never be defeated.”

Because of the work of the Legislative Latino Caucus, Illinois has some of the strongest immigrant protections, ensuring no one is defenseless.

Read more: Illinois Latino Caucus releases the following statement