SPRINGFIELD – To address racial discrimination in schools, State Senator Laura Murphy championed a new law to increase protections for students.

“Equal education means a commitment to combat racism and discrimination head-on,” said Murphy (D-Des Plaines). “Written policies in public schools are the foundation for change, ensuring that no student faces prejudice or retaliation for speaking out against injustice.”

Under the law, each school district will be required to create, implement and maintain at least one written policy that prohibits discrimination and harassment against students based on race, color or national origin. Additionally, the policy includes language prohibiting retaliation against students for submitting a complaint.

In a report from the U.S. Government Accountability Office, an estimated 5.2 million students aged 12 to 18 were bullied in the 2018-2019 school year. One in four of those students experienced bullying related to their race, national origin, religion, disability, gender or sexual orientation. In the same school year, the report says there were 1.6 million students who were subjected to hate speech due to their identity. Among those incidents, half targeted students’ race and 24% targeted their national origin.

“We need to create a nurturing space where students feel empowered to report without any bias,” Murphy said. “It is a critical step in fostering an inclusive, accepting community where diversity is celebrated and all students thrive. Students need to feel comfortable and safe, it is the school’s responsibility to provide this environment so kids can learn.”

Senate Bill 90 was signed into law on Friday.

SPRINGFIELD – A new law will increase transparency between schools, students and parents regarding transfers to alternative schools thanks to support from State Senator Laura Murphy.

“Alternative schools are necessary for some students to thrive. These schools are designed to help educate those who need an extra push outside of traditional environments,” said Murphy (D-Des Plaines). “However, students and their parents are often left in the dark when it comes to the nature of the programs, or even when they can return to regular school.”

Alternative schools are designed to educate students who have not been successful in regular schools, due to either behavioral or discipline issues. Both the sending school and the alternative school hold meetings regarding the student and establish an alternative education plan for them. Murphy’s measure will ensure that students and their parents or guardians are invited to participate in the meetings.

Before the effective date of the student’s transfer, the parents or guardians must be provided with the specific nature of the curriculum, number of students in the school, available services, disciplinary policies, typical daily schedule and extracurricular activities, under Murphy’s measure.

In addition, a meeting will need to be held with the student's parent or guardian at least 30 days prior to the student’s planned return to regular schooling.

 “We want all of our students to flourish,” Murphy said. “Establishing expectations and keeping open lines of communication will help ensure that students and their parents can make choices that are best for the student.”

Senate Bill 183 was signed into law on Friday.

SPRINGFIELD – The price of insulin will be capped at $35 for a 30-day supply thanks to State Senator Laura Murphy.

“When Fredrick Banting discovered insulin in 1923, he refused to put his name on the patent: he believed it was unethical for a doctor to profit from a discovery that would save lives,” said Murphy (D-Des Plaines). “He and his co-inventors sold the insulin patent for $1: they wanted everyone who needed their medication to be able to afford it. We need to lead by the example of Mr. Banting’s selflessness, and honor the legacy of selflessness on the 100 year anniversary of its discovery.”

Under the law the price of a 30-day supply of insulin will be capped at $35 for all private individual and group insurance policies. In addition, an insulin discount program will be established by the Department of Central Management Services. The program will begin July 1, 2025.

More than 10% of the U.S. population has diabetes according to the Diabetes Research Institute. One in 12 Illinoisans have insulin-dependent diabetes, approximately 1.3 million people. According to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, the cost of insulin has risen 600% in the last 20 years. Americans pay 10 times than that of citizens of 32 other nations – $98.70 on average compared to $8.81.

“Medication like insulin must be affordable for every individual who needs it,” Murphy said. “I am proud that Illinois has taken this important step, which will ensure that no one will need to ration or put off purchasing insulin when they need it.”

House Bill 2189 was signed into law by the governor on Friday.

DES PLAINES – Building upon the smart infrastructure investments supported by State Senator Laura Murphy, the Illinois Department of Transportation announced more than $181.8 million in road and bridge improvement projects for the 28th District.

“Roadwork projects are not only about connecting places, they are about connecting people to opportunities,” said Murphy (D-Des Plaines). “By investing in these projects, we are investing in our workforce, our businesses, and the prosperity of our community.”

As part of IDOT’s latest Multi-Year Plan under Rebuild Illinois, the district Murphy represents will see 23 infrastructure projects totaling more than $181 million over the next six years.

Some of the most vital projects coming to the area include:

• The addition of a bikeway in Hanover Park
• Bridge joint replacement and repair on Lake Street at ILL 390
• Bridge replacement, addition of retaining walls and accessibility improvements on Rand Road in Des Plaines

These projects are part of IDOT’s Multi-Year Plan, a $40 billion investment in construction projects for the next six fiscal years. The project invests in all modes of transportation: roads and bridges, aviation, transit, freight and passenger rail, waterways, as well as bicycle and pedestrian accommodations.

“Our state’s continued commitment to improving our infrastructure shows our dedication to the safety of everyone who uses our roadways,” Murphy said. “By building better roads and bridges we are also building a stronger, more prosperous future.”

To find a full list of projects slated for the 28th Senate District, visit IDOT’s website.