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SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Celina Villanueva is leading legislation that would strengthen environmental justice protections by ensuring state regulators consider the potential impacts on communities that have historically faced disproportionate environmental burdens when reviewing pollution control permits.

“For too long, communities already facing environmental burdens have been forced to carry a disproportionate share of pollution and its impacts,” Villanueva (D-Chicago) said. “This legislation ensures that environmental justice is part of the decision-making process so we can better protect the health and well-being of residents across Illinois.”

SPRINGFIELD – A measure led by State Senator Celina Villanueva to strengthen financial accountability and protect students and families when charter schools face financial instability passed the Illinois Senate Executive Committee Wednesday.

“When a school suddenly shuts its doors, it is the students, families and educators who are left scrambling,” Villanueva (D-Chicago) said. “This legislation ensures there are clear safeguards in place so communities are not blindsided by closures and public resources are properly protected.”

SPRINGFIELD — Illinois is taking steps to prevent homeowners from losing all home equity they’ve built to a predatory property tax sale, thanks to legislation backed by State Senator Celina Villanueva that was signed into law Friday.

“Families across our state have been experiencing some very challenging times,” said Villanueva (D-Chicago). “Instead of punishing families who are in financial distress, we have an opportunity to transform the property sale system for the better by placing fairness at the forefront.”

SPRINGFIELD — After hearing the governor’s budget proposal for Fiscal Year 2027, State Senator Celina Villanueva (D-Chicago) issued the following response:

“Today’s budget proposal is an important starting point, but it is just that — a starting point. As we move forward, we must ensure the final budget makes meaningful investments in the communities that have been historically underfunded and overlooked. That includes strengthening education, expanding access to affordable housing and protecting health care — but it also means making violence prevention and community safety a central priority.