­

SPRINGFIELD – To provide additional access to the Grant Program for Exonerated Persons, State Senator Ram Villivalam passed legislation through the Senate that would allow unused program benefits to be passed on to a child or spouse.

“Wrongful convictions impact not only the previously convicted individual, but also their families,” said Villivalam (D-Chicago). “Expanding program benefits for a child or spouse helps make up for the loss of resources that was felt due to the conviction.”

SPRINGFIELD - State Senator Ram Villivalam released the following statement after the Senate confirmed the appointment of Heidi Mueller as Director of the Department of Child and Family Services:

“Ensuring that youth and families across the state have access to services and programs provided through the Department of Child and Family Services is vital. It is equally as vital to have a director that understands and prioritizes the needs of our state’s most vulnerable children."

“Heidi Mueller’s knowledge of compassionate care and understanding of promoting positive youth outcomes will be a breath of fresh air for DCFS."

“I am committed to working with her to uplift ideas to address the monumental challenges facing the agency.”

SPRINGFIELD – To provide additional access to the Grant Program for Exonerated Persons, State Senator Ram Villivalam advanced legislation through the Senate Higher Education Committee that would allow unused program benefits to be passed on to a child or spouse.

“Providing assistance to those who have been impacted through wrongful convictions is important,” said Villivalam (D-Chicago). “More than just the exonerated feel the effects of a wrongful conviction, and by expanding the access to these grants, it can help set everyone on a better path.”

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Ram Villivalam (D-Chicago) released the following statement after the Senate approved a measure that would establish the Chicago Elected Representative School Board:

“I am proud to have voted for a long-overdue measure to implement a fully elected Chicago school board. Parents and other residents will finally be able to have their voice heard in a democratic process as it relates to the quality of education for our youth.”