Press Releases

SPRINGFIELD – In recognition of the history, achievements and enduring legacy of Jewish Americans, State Senator Laura Fine has sponsored a resolution designating May 2026 as Jewish American Heritage Month in Illinois.

“Jewish Americans have shaped our state and our nation in profound ways,” said Fine (D‑Glenview). “This month honors their contributions and celebrates the vital role in strengthening Illinois’ cultural, economic, civic and social life.”

Senate Resolution 768 highlights the impact of Jewish Americans since the founding of the United States — from generations of immigrants who sought refuge from persecution and built vibrant communities in Illinois, to leaders in science, the arts, business, public service and social justice. Their resilience and commitment to democratic values have enriched the state’s shared civic life.

SPRINGFIELD – To ensure Illinois maintains consistent oversight of dangerous chemical contamination regardless of shifting federal policies, State Senator Laura Fine is advancing legislation to strengthen the state’s ability to track and understand PFAS—commonly known as “forever chemicals”—in the environment.

“PFAS contamination is not just a future problem – it’s affecting communities today,” said Fine (D‑Glenview). “This measure ensures we have the tools to track these chemicals and take meaningful action to protect public health and the environment.”

PFAS—short for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances—are a class of roughly 5,000 human‑made chemicals that have been widely used since the 1940s for their resistance to oil and water. Those same properties cause them to persist in the environment, contributing to contamination in air, soil, and water.

SPRINGFIELD – To ensure patients can consistently access the medicines they depend on, State Senator Laura Fine is leading legislation to safeguard insurance coverage for topical eye medications.

“Patients shouldn’t have to choose between following their doctor’s instructions and fighting their insurance company for a refill,” said Fine (D-Glenview). “This measure ensures that people who rely on eye drops for conditions like glaucoma can maintain their treatment uninterrupted. Vision is too important to be delayed by insurance red tape.”

Senate Bill 2921 aims to address health insurance coverage for topical eye medication, such as eye drops for those suffering from glaucoma – a disease that can lead to permanent vision loss or blindness if left untreated. For this reason, the bill – also known as the Topical Eye Medication Prescription Act – would require coverage of eye medication to be included in any policy of accident and health insurance for public employees and individuals receiving pubic aid.

GLENVIEW – State Senator Laura Fine (D-Glenview) issued the following statement on the passing of Illinois Holocaust Museum President Emeritus Samuel Harris:

“I am heartbroken by the passing of Samuel Harris, a truly extraordinary man whose life and legacy have left an incredible mark on our community.

“Sam was not only a Holocaust survivor, but a teacher, a mentor and a friend to so many of us across the North Shore. I feel incredibly fortunate to have known him and to have witnessed firsthand his unwavering commitment to educating others and standing up to hate. Every time Sam shared his story, he reminded us of both the fragility of humanity and the strength of the human spirit.