Villivalam law aids mental health crisis response efforts

SPRINGFIELD - To enhance the access and availability of crisis mental health care and bolster the emergency medical service workforce, State Senator Ram Villivalam sponsored a measure that expands educational opportunities for future paramedics in Illinois.

“No one should have to worry about whether they can receive the care they deserve when they are in a mental health crisis,” said Villivalam (D-Chicago). “Making sure our first responders are able to provide the best care they can during these situations is vital.”

Currently, ambulance providers are facing an issue where payers do not authorize or reimburse for ambulance services in response to mental health situations. This law adds observations of a patient’s medical or mental health condition to the definition of clinical observations.

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Villivalam, Syed law expands eligibility for energy bill assistance

SPRINGFIELD – A law sponsored by State Senator Ram Villivalam and State Representative Nabeela Syed expands eligibility requirements for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program.

“Home energy is an essential resource that no one should have to go without,” said Villivalam (D-Chicago). “By expanding the eligibility, we are ensuring everyone has access to programs that keep their energy costs affordable.”

The new law allows people to apply for LIHEAP if they live in subsidized housing, their rental expenses are less than 30% of their household income and their energy bill is paid as a portion of their rent.

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Villivalam hosts first subject matter hearing on the state of public transit

CHICAGO - With public transit in the RTA region approaching a budget deficit in 2026, Senate Transportation Chair Ram Villivalam held a subject matter hearing on Tuesday regarding the state of public transit and how it supports the local economy.

“Today, we were able to have crucial and robust conversations about the current state of public transit and its relation to our economy,” said Villivalam (D-Chicago). “Many key stakeholders, from the agencies to business and labor groups, were able to share their insights as to how we can maintain and improve service, and what we can do to underpin a vibrant economy.”

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Villivalam, Senate Transportation Committee to host hearings on the state of public transit

CHICAGO –  State Senator Ram Villivalam –  a longtime public transit advocate, and chair of the Senate Transportation Committee – will host a number of hearings throughout the coming months to discuss the state of public transit, ranging from how it positively impacts our economic and public health system to the service improvements that need to take place to better serve our communities.

“In order to provide a public transit system that works for our people, we have to collaboratively discuss how it can better serve our communities,” said Villivalam (D-Chicago). “These hearings will serve as a place for these conversations to occur, and ensure we are working toward the common goal of providing safe, reliable, accessible, economically impactful, and environmentally conscious transportation for all.”

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