DES PLAINES – State Senator Laura Murphy secured more than $80 million for Rebuild Illinois infrastructure projects in the 28^th Senate District.

“Roads, bridges and pathways are essential to keeping our community vibrant and growing as they intersect with business, pleasure and recreation,” said Murphy (D-Des Plaines). “These projects will keep our transportation infrastructure safe and reliable for all.”

DES PLAINES – With fall around the corner, State Senator Laura Murphy is joining Ascension Holy Family to host a free flu vaccination event to ensure residents of the 28^th District stay protected from sickness this flu season.

“The flu virus changes every year, so the best way to keep yourself and your community healthy is to get your annual flu vaccination,” said Murphy (D-Des Plaines). “I urge local residents to take advantage of this opportunity and be proactive about their health.”

SPRINGFIELD – Medically necessary equine therapy will soon be covered by health insurance thanks to a law championed by State Senator Laura Murphy.

“There are many effective forms for therapy, but insurance roadblocks and cost barriers often leave patients without access to the care they need,” said Murphy (D-Des Plaines). “Equine therapy can support mental health and emotional growth, and soon it will be available to individuals who could benefit from this treatment but couldn’t afford it.”

Equine therapy encompasses therapies that involve interacting with horses, including specific therapies used by physical, occupational and speech therapists to engage different sensory responses for patients. It has shown positive effects for people living with PTSD, autism and many other conditions.

SPRINGFIELD – With worries about hazardous material explosions on the rise, schools would be required to establish emergency evacuation plans under a measure from State Senator Laura Murphy.

“It’s vital to establish clear plans before an emergency happens, which is why our schools need to know how to best protect their students should the unthinkable happen,” said Murphy (D-Des Plaines). “Evacuation plans developed with emergency management experts give schools the tools they need to act quickly and confidently in a hazardous spill – saving time, reducing chaos and protecting lives.”

Under this legislation, the Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland Security would be required to work with the Illinois State Board of Education to develop guidance detailing the potential impacts of an explosion or release of hazardous substances near schools. The guidance must include recommendations for evacuation plans, communication protocols and how to identify a school district’s local disaster agency. This guidance would be shared with all local emergency planning committees, emergency services and disaster agencies and school districts in the state by July 1, 2026.

Equipped with the agency’s guidance, both private and public schools would need to develop school procedures in the event of an explosion or release of hazardous substances. The districts would have until July 1, 2027 to have evacuation, communication, and training programs established at each school in their district.

“Preparing for accidents isn’t just taking precaution – it’s demonstrating responsibility,” Murphy said. “Schools and emergency officials working together means faster responses and safer outcomes for our children.”

Senate Bill 71 passed the Senate Wednesday.