SPRINGFIELD – Young social media influencers gained safeguards and protections this month thanks to newly-enacted legislation led by State Senator Dave Koehler.

“Social media platforms have given our children new ways to connect, create and make a living,” said Koehler (D-Peoria). “In many instances, parents use this opportunity to pocket the earnings while continuing to have their child make content for them.”

Senate Bill 1782 took effect July 1, extending protections under the Child Labor Law to minors age 16 or younger who are featured in vlogs or other online content. The law also requires the child –also known as a “kidfluencer”—to be accurately compensated.

PEORIA – Following the infrastructure investments backed by State Senator Dave Koehler, the Illinois Department of Transportation announced an investment of over $193 million in road and bridge improvement projects across McLean and Peoria counties.

“The Rebuild Illinois initiative is transforming our state’s transportation system,” said Koehler (D-Peoria). “This funding is a crucial step toward enhancing our roads and bridges, which will positively impact residents and businesses alike.”

As part of IDOT’s latest Multi-Year Plan under Rebuild Illinois, the district Koehler represents will see 24 infrastructure projects totaling more than $193 million next year.

SPRINGFIELD – In an effort to expand access to medication for hereditary bleeding disorders, State Senator Dave Koehler advanced a measure to cut red-tape practices used by insurance companies.

“Prior authorization processes can delay vital medical care, putting patients’ lives at risk,” said Koehler (D-Peoria). “We need to ensure Illinoisans can access the medications they need without delays.”

House Bill 4055 would prohibit prior authorization for FDA-approved medication for the treatment of hereditary bleeding disorders for up to six months. Prior authorization is a form of approval by insurance companies utilized before agreeing to cover medications and procedures. These checks can be for age, medical necessity, the availability of a medical alternative or drug interactions.

SPRINGFIELD – To help strengthen the creative arts economy in Illinois, State Senator Dave Koehler passed an initiative to form a Creative Economy Task Force to help the state attract and retain diverse businesses and talent.

“Creative businesses employ thousands of Illinoisans from all backgrounds,” said Koehler (D-Peoria). “In today’s digital era, creative arts are a driving force for our economy. This legislation keeps us ahead of the curve and will promote job opportunities for those seeking new ventures.”

The arts and culture sector generates $31.1 billion in economic impact and employs over 190,000 workers in Illinois, making it the fifth largest state for arts and culture employment. Illinois arts deliver over $478 million in state and local government revenue each year.