SPRINGFIELD – A comprehensive plan backed by State Senator Patrick Joyce that aims to increase renewable energy procurement and promote environmental conservation was signed into law last Friday.

“By using our existing hydropower infrastructure, we are minimizing the need for additional construction and associated costs,” said Joyce (D-Essex). “Right here in the 40^th District, we have two major hydropower dams that will benefit greatly from this new law.”

The new law aims to support hydropower dams across the state, especially the Kankakee Hydropower Dam and the Wilmington Dam located in Joyce’s district. The law will require the Illinois Power Agency to procure a percentage of its renewable energy credits from hydropower dams. This will help increase the use of this renewable energy source, while also promoting environmental conservation by using dams that already exist.

“The state’s energy goals can be achieved through this measure, while discouraging the construction of new dams by taking away incentives for these projects,” said Joyce. “There’s no need for new dams, when we already have the available resources. This highlights the importance of using our current resources wisely.”

Senate Bill 1474 was signed and takes effect Jan. 1, 2024.

SPRINGFIELD – In an effort to recruit more state troopers, a measure from State Senator Patrick Joyce was signed into law that aims to encourage more military veterans to take the Illinois State Police exam.

“We are working to create a pathway for veterans to transition from military service to law enforcement in Illinois,” said Joyce (D-Essex). “These individuals have unique skills and experiences that they could bring to a career in law enforcement.”

The new law states that collegiate requirements to take the Illinois State Police exam are met if a person has been honorably discharged by the United States Armed Forces, or is an active member of the Illinois National Guard or a reserve component of the United States Armed Forces, and has been awarded the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Kuwait Liberation Medal or Inherent Resolve Campaign Medal.

The opportunity to take the Illinois Police exam will expand to more current and prior service members, which can help the State Police with recruitment. This will only allow the individuals who qualify to sit for the exam and would not waive any additional requirements to becoming a State Police officer.

“Meeting the collegiate requirements to take the exam can be a challenge for honorably discharged veterans,” said Joyce. “This aims to recognize the sacrifices and contributions made by our veterans, and provide them with an opportunity to serve our state in another meaningful way.”

House Bill 2475 was signed Friday and takes effect Jan. 1, 2024.

SPRINGFIELD – A measure led by State Senator Patrick Joyce that would bring more fire prevention education to children across the state was signed into law Friday.

“There are a lot of things to consider when it comes to fire education, such as the importance of smoke detectors, having updated escape plans and knowing what to do in case of a fire,” said Joyce (D-Essex). “By teaching children at an early age, we can help prevent fire tragedies and ensure children are prepared in case of an emergency.”

This new law will create positions of certified youth firesetter interventionists in the Division of Arson Investigation within the Office of the State Fire Marshal.

These positions will help local authorities stress the importance of fire safety. They will conduct firesetter interventions and work closely with families, schools and other organizations to provide education, support and guidance to children.

“Many fires can be prevented with proper education and fire safety awareness,” said Joyce. “Fire prevention tips and hands-on training exercises from certified individuals will go a long way in protecting public safety and preventing future fires in our communities.”

House Bill 2372 was signed Friday and takes effect immediately.

KANKAKEE – State Senator Patrick Joyce is urging agencies across the 40^th District to apply for Open Space Land Acquisition and Development grants.

“It is important our local parks are getting the attention they need to stay safe and accessible to residents,” said Joyce (D-Essex). “The OSLAD program is a great way to invest in these areas to keep them thriving. I encourage local agencies to apply for the program so people can continue to enjoy the outdoors.”

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources will be accepting applications for Open Space Land Acquisition and Development, or OSLAD, grants through Aug. 31.

The program offers state-financed funding assistance to local governmental agencies for acquisition and/or development of land for public parks and outdoor recreation areas. A total of $56 million is available for this round of OSLAD grants. In addition, IDNR will once again provide funding to cover 100% of eligible projects located in economically distressed communities.

Applications are being accepted through Aug. 31 and should be submitted to IDNR. For more information on the OSLAD program, visit IDNR’s website.