Sangamon Sun

Legislation led by State Senator Sally Turner to improve food safety for people with celiac disease passed unanimously in the Illinois Senate. Senate Bill 1288 mandates that all food handlers in the state undergo training on celiac disease and gluten-free food handling. The bill enhances allergen awareness by recognizing sesame as a major allergen and improving understanding of gluten-related risks. The legislation, focusing on topics such as cross-contamination prevention, now moves to the Illinois House.

Senator Turner remarked on the anxieties faced by those with celiac disease when dining out, stating, "By giving food handlers better tools and training, we can help take away some of that anxiety." Celiac disease affects approximately 1% of the global population. Senate Bill 1288 will now move to the Illinois House for further consideration.

In separate developments, Illinois Senate Republicans introduced a legislative package to address childcare affordability. Over the last decade, the state has seen a 33% reduction in licensed childcare providers, according to Capitol News Illinois. The package aims to offer loan forgiveness to childcare providers in "childcare deserts," extend daycare license renewals, raise childcare assistance eligibility, and provide tax credits for related initiatives.

Additionally, Senate Bill 8, known as the Safe Gun Storage and Reporting Act, aims to reduce the timeframe for reporting lost firearms. Republicans argue it unfairly targets law-abiding gun owners, suggesting that it "creates a one-size-fits-all mandate.” This bill addresses gun storage and is scheduled for further consideration in the House.

Furthermore, Andrew’s Law seeks to close criminal code loopholes involving child predators. Senate Bill 284, inspired by the story of Michelle Peterson's son, prohibits plea deals for serious offenses against minors and imposes stricter restrictions on convicted child sex offenders.

Meanwhile, other legislative actions include the stopping of House Bill 2827, a homeschool regulation proposal. While it was halted, vigilance remains necessary for potential upcoming debates. Noteworthy is the Illinois Ag Lobby Day, where agricultural professionals discussed legislative priorities at the Capitol, with Senator Turner expressing appreciation for young participants' engagement.

Lastly, Senator Turner and the Secretary of State’s office will organize a mobile DMV visit to Hopedale, offering various renewal and registration services.