SPRINGFIELD— Legislation sponsored by State Senator Dave Koehler to support student leaders serving on state higher education boards passed the Senate.

"Our student board members represent thousands of their peers and help shape decisions that directly affect colleges and universities across Illinois," said Koehler. "Offering this scholarship recognizes their dedication and encourages more students to participate in leadership roles."

Senate Bill 1475 would provide a $500 scholarship each semester to student members serving on the Illinois Board of Higher Education and the Illinois Community College Board. Currently, these student members volunteer their time without compensation, only receiving reimbursement for travel-related expenses.

Under current Illinois law, student members serving on state boards receive no direct compensation. Koehler's legislation seeks to acknowledge these students' significant contributions by providing modest financial support.

"Students deserve recognition for their time, energy and commitment," said Koehler. "This legislation sends a clear message that Illinois values their leadership."

Senate Bill 1475 now advances to the Illinois House for further consideration.

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Dave Koehler is sponsoring legislation to extend press freedom protections to public media outlets like NPR and PBS affiliates that operate on Illinois college campuses.

“Public media plays an essential role in informing our communities,” said Koehler (D-Peoria). “Ensuring their independence, accountability and trust is upheld is vital to democracy.”

Senate Bill 1988 would prevent campus-based public media from being subject to prior review by university officials. It would also allow employees or contributors to seek legal relief if their rights are violated, while also expanding liability protections.

The measure would extend the protections student-led campus media has to campus-based public media outlets.

“If we value independent journalism, we need to protect it,” said Koehler. “We must ensure public media remains a vital and accessible resource for all.”

Senate Bill 1988 passed now advances to the House for further consideration.

SPRINGFIELD – Legislation sponsored by State Senator Dave Koehler to establish the Illinois Freedom Trails Commission and preserve the state's Underground Railroad history passed the Senate Wednesday.

"This commission honors the courage of freedom seekers and highlights Illinois' critical role in their journey," said Koehler (D-Peoria). "By preserving and sharing these important historical sites, we ensure future generations understand and appreciate this powerful part of our state's story."

Senate Bill 1607 would create the Illinois Freedom Trails Commission, which would identify, preserve and promote historic sites linked to the Underground Railroad across Illinois. The commission would also support educational initiatives and provide grants to maintain these important landmarks. Additionally, the commission would report annually to the governor and General Assembly, providing recommendations for ongoing preservation and education efforts

"Preserving our history is essential to building a better future," Koehler said. "Through this commission, we can ensure the stories of bravery, perseverance, and freedom are told and remembered."

Senate Bill 1607 now advances to the House for further consideration.

SPRINGFIELD – To support students serving in critical leadership roles within Illinois' higher education system, State Senator Dave Koehler has introduced Senate Bill 1475, which would provide scholarship assistance to student members of the state's higher education boards.

"Student voices are essential in shaping Illinois' higher education policies, yet serving on these boards requires significant commitment," Koehler said. “Offering scholarship assistance recognizes their contributions and helps ease these students' financial burdens."

Under Senate Bill 1475, student members serving on the Board of Higher Education and the Illinois Community College Board would receive a $500 scholarship for each semester they are enrolled and actively serving.

Currently, student board members receive no compensation other than reimbursement for travel and related expenses. This legislation aims to acknowledge their commitment and support their educational pursuits.

The Board of Higher Education includes two student members, one of whom represents non-traditional undergraduate students—typically those who are older, employed or parents—ensuring diverse student perspectives are included. The Illinois Community College Board features a student representative who serves a one-year term and provides input reflecting community college student experiences.

"These students dedicate significant time and effort to advocate for their peers and improve higher education across Illinois," Koehler said. "This legislation is a step forward in ensuring their valuable contributions are recognized and supported."

Senate Bill 1475 passed the Senate Higher Education Committee Wednesday.