SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Cristina Castro (D- Elgin), who has worked tirelessly for years to bring a comprehensive and just energy transition package to Illinois, released the following statement regarding the General Assembly’s passage of the state’s historic energy measure:

“After years of fighting the battle for clean energy, I am pleased we were able to come together to pass a comprehensive energy package that puts environmental justice and equity at the center of the work to move Illinois to 100% clean energy.

“Historically, Black and Brown communities have been disproportionately impacted by climate change and other environmental and health harms that come with burning fossil fuels. Giving these voices a chance to lead the transition to clean energy was a top priority that was reached in this legislation.

“I am proud to have worked over the last few years on an ethical clean energy plan to bring Illinois to the forefront of the fight against the climate crisis.”

ELGIN – In the months following the spring legislative session, State Senator Cristina Castro (D- Elgin) is celebrating the signing of a number of pieces of legislation she spearheaded to help Illinoisans.

“I am proud of the General Assembly’s work this year to pass a wide range of measures to improve the lives of Illinoisans,” Castro said. “As we prepare to return to session in the coming months, I hope to continue my work to support and protect residents of the state, especially our most vulnerable.”

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Cristina Castro (D- Elgin) passed a new law to put an end to the demand for pets from inhumane breeding operations by requiring pet stores to source their animals from rescue shelters.

“This law is an important step to making sure animals in our state are treated compassionately from when their bred onwards, and I am ready to keep working to rid Illinois of puppy mills entirely,” Castro said.  “Reducing the demand for cheap, inhumanely bred puppies by prohibiting pet shops from getting puppies from these kinds of operations was a top priority as we continue our work.”

SPRINGFIELD –State Senator Cristina Castro (D- Elgin) spearheaded a new law to ensure people who utilize household devices like Amazon Alexas and Ring doorbells are protected from having private information seized without a warrant.

“Household devices are convenient, but they also can store a lot of data that we don’t always realize,” Castro said. “The legislation being signed today will lay out clear guidelines for when private information can be acquired by law enforcement.”