SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Senate today approved a measure that will gradually increase the minimum wage in Illinois to $15 an hour.

“Raising the minimum wage in Illinois is long overdue,” said State Senator Ram Villivalam (D-Chicago) “It is this sort of progressive legislation that working families have sorely needed as the cost of living has risen while wages have stagnated. If you work full time, you deserve to be able to put a roof over your head and provide food for your family.”

This legislation, has been negotiated with stakeholders across the spectrum. Labor organizations and business groups, such the Illinois Restaurant Association, are in support.

“I’m proud that the Illinois State Senate has taken the lead in moving this vital legislation. With its implementation, we will prevent wage theft and working families will be able to spend money on things they need, adding a boon to local economies.” Villivalam said. “Finally, this legislation will provide working class people with a sense of dignity, fairness and stability in everyday life. I commend Majority Leader Lightford and Gov. Pritzker on their leadership on this issue.”

Senate Bill 1, will be phased in over six years in order to provide businesses time to adapt to a new minimum wage in Illinois. SB 1 will raise the minimum wage to:
• $9.25 per hour from Jan. 1, 2020, to June 30, 2020
• $10 per hour from July 1, 2020, to Dec. 31, 2020
• $11 per hour from Jan. 1, 2021, to Dec. 31, 2021
• $12 per hour from Jan. 1, 2022, to Dec. 31, 2022
• $13 per hour from Jan. 1, 2023, to Dec. 31, 2023
• $14 per hour from Jan. 1, 2024, to Dec. 31, 2024
• $15 per hour on and after Jan. 1, 2025

The bill now goes to the House for approval.

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Ram Villivalam released the following statement after Gov. JB Pritzker signed an executive order protecting immigrant families in Illinois.

“I commend Gov. Pritzker for prioritizing and raising the voices of immigrant families in Illinois,” Villivalam (D-Chicago) said. “We have a president who constantly spouts anti-immigrant rhetoric, and those who enter this country seeking opportunities for themselves and their family need to know that the people of Illinois are on their side.”

Executive Order 2019-07 calls for the Department of Human Services to expand access welcoming centers for immigrants, refugees, and asylum seekers. In addition, state agencies are required to inform immigrants, refugees, and asylum seekers of their rights and opportunities available to them in the state of Illinois.

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Ram Villivalam issued the following statement regarding Gov. JB Pritzker’s executive order calling for the enforcement of House Bill 40.

“I applaud Gov. Pritzker’s continued support of a woman’s right to choose,” Villivalam (D-Chicago) said. “We need to ensure legislation is actually working once it is signed, and this executive order will do just that. I look forward to working with Gov. Pritzker and members of the Illinois General Assembly in taking the next steps to further protect and advance women's rights.”

Executive Order 2019-05 calls for a Department of Central Management Services review of the coverage in all state employee health insurance, then submitting a report to the governor detailing the coverage for abortion in each plan, specifically identifying where coverage is restrictive.

SPRINGFIELD - State Senator Ram Villivalam released the following statement regarding the statewide gun dealer certification law that was signed by Gov. JB Pritzker this morning.

“Gun dealers have not been adequately regulated in the state of Illinois. If a hair dresser and a dog groomer need to be certified, then so should a gun dealer. This bill ensures that those who wish to sell firearms meet standards that are necessary to keeping the people of Illinois safe,” Villivalam (D-Chicago) said.

Under the law, Illinois gun dealers will need certification by the Illinois State Police. It requires gun dealers to safely store firearms at all times, requires them to make copies of FOID cards or IDs and attach them to documentation detailing each gun sale, and requires employees to undergo annual training about the law and responsible business practices. It also requires gun dealers to open their place of business for inspection by state and local police.

“This is a critical step in addressing the epidemic of gun violence in our state,” Villivalam said. “By no means will this legislation solve all of our problems related to firearms, but it will make these weapons more difficult to acquire for those who wish to do harm. It is a crucial gun violence prevention measure.”