Castro: Families should know their household data is private

• Privacy

SPRINGFIELD – As more families use smart devices like Amazon Alexas and Ring doorbells, State Senator Cristina Castro (D- Elgin) has introduced a measure to ensure people who utilize those devices are protected from having private information seized without a warrant.

“Many households have some sort of smart device nowadays, and there needs to be clear expectations with what information is allowed to be stored and seized by law enforcement,” Castro said. “This legislation will clarify what private data can and cannot be used in criminal investigations.”

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Castro supports measure to protect immigrants in Illinois

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Cristina Castro (D- Elgin) supported a measure Friday to prohibit law enforcement agencies from questioning people in the state on their immigration status.

“It is so important that all Illinoisans feel safe enough to go to law enforcement if they are victim of a crime, regardless of immigration status,” said Castro, who was a co-sponsor of the legislation. “It is unnecessary to question a person’s place of birth or immigration status when a crime is being investigated.”

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Castro praises social equity changes to cannabis legislation

SPRINGFIELD – With adult-use recreational cannabis legal for over a year now, State Senator Cristina Castro (D- Elgin) is praising changes to the 2019 Cannabis Regulation and Tax Act that would do more to encourage diversity in dispensary licensing.

“Social equity has always been at the forefront of cannabis legislation in Illinois, and it’s important that Illinois continue to be a leader as more states legalize,” Castro said. “I am proud to support the increases in social equity this year.”

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Castro measure to provide housing and support to those with mental illnesses pass both chambers

• Housing

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Cristina Castro (D-Elgin)  spearheaded a measure to create a program that will help people with serious mental illness or substance use disorders by enabling access to affordable housing and support services.

“The Housing is Recovery Pilot Program will help break the cycle of institutionalization for those struggling with mental health issues and addiction,” Castro said. “We need to ensure those most vulnerable have a roof over their head and the services they need.”

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